Pussy toes (Antennaria dioica)
Care, watering, light and tips for Pussy toes on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Asteraceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Full sun
- Temperature: 0–35 °C
About Pussy toes
Antennaria dioica, also known as 'Kattefod' or 'Pussy-toes', is a small, low-growing perennial groundcover. It forms a dense mat of silvery, hairy leaves, punctuated in spring and summer by small, button-like white or pink flowers. It's perfect for rock gardens, alpine gardens, or as a groundcover in dry, sunny areas.
Native range
Arctic and temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere, including Europe, Asia, and North America.
Care tips
This plant thrives in full sun and requires well-drained soil, preferably sandy or gravelly, as it does not tolerate waterlogging. Watering should be moderate, allowing the substrate to dry out completely between waterings, and sparse once established. A common mistake is planting it in moist or heavy soils, which can lead to root rot. It is a very drought-tolerant and cold-hardy plant.
How to save a dying Pussy toes
- Warning signs
- Wilting, yellowing, or dry leaves. Stunted growth.
- First aid
- Move to full sun, well-draining soil. Reduce watering. If potted, consider repotting to a larger pot with sandy substrate.
- What kills it
- Overwatering and shade. It doesn't tolerate constant root moisture or dark environments. Heavy, clay soil.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if you act quickly. It needs sun, good drainage, and minimal watering to recover.