Antennaria plantaginifolia, commonly known as Pussytoes, is a native, low-growing perennial found throughout much of eastern North America. This mat-forming plant is valued for its soft, silvery-green foliage and its small, fuzzy white flower clusters that appear in early to mid-spring. Typically growing 4 to 8 inches tall and spreading slowly by stolons, Pussytoes forms dense groundcover patches well suited to dry, sunny sites. It thrives in well-drained soils and is especially useful in native plantings, rock gardens, and low-maintenance landscapes.

Why choose Pussytoes

• Native groundcover: Naturally occurs across eastern North America

• Early blooms: Soft white flower clusters appear in spring

• Low-growing habit: Forms tidy mats ideal for edging and groundcover

Cultivating tips

• Sun exposure: Full sun to light shade

• Soil needs: Prefers dry to moderately moist, well-drained soils

• Maintenance: Very low—no regular pruning or fertilization needed

Designs for your garden

• Native plantings: Blends naturally with other low-growing native species

• Rock gardens: Well suited to dry, open sites

• Groundcover use: Helps suppress weeds in sunny areas

Ecological benefits

• Pollinator support: Host plant for the American Lady butterfly

• Native value: Supports local insect populations and biodiversity

• Low-input plant: Performs well without irrigation once established