Plant Profile: Antennaria neglecta

Antennaria neglecta, commonly known as Field Pussytoes, is a perennial herb from the daisy family, characterized by its soft, woolly leaves. While it can grow up to 1 foot tall, it usually remains around 6 inches. The plant features a rosette of basal leaves that create a mat-like structure, making it an excellent choice for ground cover in compact areas or rock gardens. In the spring, it produces flowers on short stalks, which appear as dense clusters of white tufts. The flowering period spans from mid to late spring, lasting approximately three weeks, and the flowers are not known for any significant fragrance. Field Pussytoes propagate through horizontal stolons that generate small clones of the parent plant, which take root and form thick colonies. Its root system is anchored by a central taproot.

This plant thrives in partial to full sunlight and prefers mesic to dry conditions with well-drained soil. It is particularly suited to dry or shaded environments with poor, rocky, or clay-rich soil. Although it can be challenging to cultivate, when provided with the right conditions—specifically dry and rocky soil—it can effectively spread and serve as an attractive ground cover.

Field Pussytoes bear resemblance to Antennaria plantaginifolia, or Plantain-Leaved Pussytoes, which features broader basal leaves with distinct parallel veins. Both species are well-suited for rock gardens.

Regarding plant health, most of the growth for Field Pussytoes occurs in the spring, which helps them evade many pests and diseases.