Pussy Toes (Antennaria)

Antennaria is a genus of herbaceous perennial plants in the daisy family, with species native across much of the Northern Hemisphere and extending into parts of South America. Many form low mats or rosettes of softly hairy leaves and carry small clustered flower heads on short stems; habit, foliage persistence, size, and flowering time vary by species. ## Form and garden use The genus includes around 45 accepted species, according to [Plants of the World Online at Kew](https://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/331352-2). Many species spread by stolons, though botanists also recognize non-stoloniferous lineages. The flowers are often borne on separate male and female plants. These differences make the species name important when choosing a pussytoes for a particular site. ## Siting Choose conditions from the identified species’ needs. Several familiar garden species come from open, sunny, well-drained habitats and are used in rock gardens or as small groundcovers, but those traits should not be assumed for every member of the genus. The [Centre for Plant Biodiversity Research](https://www.anbg.gov.au/people/bayer1.html) describes the genus’ varied growth forms and reproductive features. ## Maintenance Water a new planting while it establishes, then follow the needs of the identified species and local soil. Keep taller neighboring plants from shading out low-growing forms. Divide clumps only when needed to control spread or renew a planting; exact timing and pruning needs vary across the genus.