Pussytoes

Antennaria dioica ‘Rubra’ is a low, spreading perennial with small spoon-shaped leaves and reddish-pink flower heads. The Royal Horticultural Society lists it as semi-evergreen and describes its flowers on short stems in spring and early summer. It is a compact choice for rock gardens, gravel plantings, containers, or a small groundcover area where its foliage and flowers can be seen close at hand. ## Form and placement The [RHS profile](https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/60635/antennaria-dioica-rubra/details) describes a mat of greyish-green leaves and flower stems reaching about 15 cm, with a broad published maximum range for height and spread. It recommends full sun and well-drained chalk, loam, or sandy soil. The RHS also lists patio containers, gravel gardens, and rock gardens among suitable settings. Give the mat room to spread and avoid heavy, persistently wet soil. ## Seasonal interest Reddish-pink heads appear in spring and early summer above the low foliage. This named form is selected for its flower color; do not assume that every Antennaria dioica has the same red-pink display. The species is dioecious, with male and female flowers on separate plants, as noted in the RHS botanical details. ## Maintenance Keep the soil well drained and water during establishment. The RHS reports that routine pruning is not required and that the plant can be propagated by seed or division. Remove spent stems only if desired for tidiness, and divide the mat if it becomes crowded.