Pseudognaphalium leucocephalum
Care, watering, light and tips for Pseudognaphalium leucocephalum on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Asteraceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 3 days
- Light: Full sun
- Temperature: 0–35 °C
About Pseudognaphalium leucocephalum
Pseudognaphalium leucocephalum, commonly known as 'white rabbit-tobacco', is a perennial or annual herb native to North and Central America, notable for its woolly, silvery foliage. Its small, often whitish or yellowish flowers are clustered in dense heads, adding a rustic and delicate touch to the landscape. It is ideal for rock gardens, xeriscaping, and sunny borders, where its soft texture and pale color beautifully contrast with other plants.
Native range
Southwestern United States, Mexico, and Central America
Care tips
This species thrives in full sun and well-drained soils, even poor or sandy ones. It requires very infrequent watering once established, being highly drought-tolerant. Avoid overwatering, as it is its main enemy and can lead to root rot. It does not need frequent fertilization, and a common mistake is attempting to grow it in partial shade or heavy, wet soils, which will compromise its health.
How to save a dying Pseudognaphalium leucocephalum
- Warning signs
- Yellowish or brown, wilting, lifeless leaves; soft or rotting stems at the base.
- First aid
- Remove damaged leaves and stems. Check soil moisture. If waterlogged, repot into dry, airy soil.
- What kills it
- Overwatering is its main killer, followed by lack of light. It does not tolerate waterlogging.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if you act quickly. Good drainage and direct sun are key for its recovery.