Purple cudweed (Gamochaeta purpurea)
Care, watering, light and tips for Purple cudweed on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Asteraceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 3 days
- Light: Full sun
- Temperature: 0–35 °C
About Purple cudweed
Gamochaeta purpurea, known as "sølvgråurt" in some regions, is a small annual or biennial herbaceous plant belonging to the Asteraceae family. It is characterized by its grayish-green to silvery leaves, often with a woolly texture, and its tiny purple flowers clustered in compact inflorescences. It is ideal for rock gardens, path edges, or as ground cover in low-maintenance gardens, adding a subtle and natural touch.
Native range
Americas, from Canada to Argentina
Care tips
This species prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil, even poor or sandy. It is very drought-tolerant once established, so watering should be moderate, allowing the substrate to dry out completely between waterings to avoid waterlogging. A common mistake is overwatering, which can lead to root rot. It does not require frequent fertilization.
How to save a dying Purple cudweed
- Warning signs
- Dry, wilted basal leaves, soft or rotting stems, lack of flowering.
- First aid
- Remove damaged parts, check drainage, reduce watering, move to partial shade.
- What kills it
- Excessive humidity and lack of direct light, leading to rot.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if you act quickly to reduce humidity and improve sun exposure.