Alpine Pussytoes

(Antennaria alpina)

Alpine Pussytoes (Antennaria alpina)

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Climate Requirements

Precipitation 20" - 52"
High Temp. 52°F - 61°F
Low Temp. 3°F - 16°F

Summary

Antennaria alpina, commonly known as Alpine Pussytoes, is an evergreen perennial herb native to alpine regions, tundra, and subalpine meadows across the Northern Hemisphere, including the Northern Intermountain regions of the USA, Canada, and Scandinavia. It is a low-growing plant, typically reaching only 0.5 feet (0.2 meters) in height and width, with a mat-forming habit that makes it an excellent ground cover. Alpine Pussytoes feature small, woolly leaves and produce clusters of pink to white flowers in the summer, which are modest in size but can add a delicate texture to rock gardens and alpine displays.

Alpine Pussytoes are valued for their drought tolerance and ability to thrive in poor, well-drained soils, making them suitable for xeriscaping and rock gardens. They are also used in border fronts, as they form dense mats that can suppress weeds. In cultivation, they require minimal maintenance, preferring full sun to part shade. While generally disease-free, they can occasionally suffer from root rot if overwatered or planted in poorly drained soils. Alpine Pussytoes are also appreciated for their ecological role as a food source for butterfly larvae.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 0.1-0.6 feet
  • Width: 0.083-0.5 feet
  • Growth Rate: Slow
  • Flower Color: White
  • Flowering Season: Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Drainage: Fast

Common Uses

Drought Tolerant, Low Maintenance

Natural Habitat

Alpine regions, tundra, and subalpine meadows across the Northern Hemisphere

Other Names

Common Names: Alpine Catsfoot, Alpine Everlasting, Antennaire Alpine, Fjällkattfot

Scientific Names: Antennaria alpina, Antennaria alpina subsp. alpina, Antennaria alpina subsp. canescens, Antennaria pallida, Gnaphalium alpinum, Antennaria media subsp. compacta, Antennaria compacta, Antennaria intermedia, Antennaria confusa, Antennaria glabrata

GBIF Accepted Name: Antennaria alpina (L.) Gaertn.