Pussytoes Plant

Antennaria microphylla, littleleaf pussytoes, is a low-growing western North American perennial with spreading mats of small gray-green leaves. Its fuzzy flower heads are usually described in white or pink tones and appear from late spring into early summer. The plant is useful in a sunny, dry rock garden or as a low groundcover where the soil drains freely. ## Form and placement The [University of Wyoming’s Native Plants for the Intermountain West list](https://cwelwnp.usu.edu/westernnativeplants/plantlist_view.php?id=6&name=antennariamicrophylla) describes a tight groundcover for dry sunny locations, including poor, well-drained soils, and reports that the gray-green foliage remains through winter. It lists flowering from mid-May to mid-June and notes white or pink flower shades. The [Burke Herbarium](https://burkeherbarium.org/imagecollection/taxon.php?Taxon=Antennaria+microphylla) recognizes the species as a perennial native across western North America. ## Water and seasonal care Use full sun and shallow to ordinary garden soil with good drainage. The Intermountain West list rates supplemental water needs as low to very low. Basal leaves may thin after flowering and regenerate later in summer; shearing flower stalks in late spring is listed as an option when a tighter groundcover is wanted. Avoid applying that clipping practice where the flower display is desired. ## Maintenance Water new plants while they establish, then adjust to local rainfall and drainage. Keep weeds from overtaking the low mats. Divide or propagate by cuttings or seed if additional plants are needed; routine fertilization is unnecessary in suitable soil.