Its common name comes from the dense gray-green hairs covering its leaves and stems, giving the whole plant a soft, downy texture.
Supports bees, butterflies, and beetles, while its seeds provide food for goldfinches and other birds.
Spreads by rhizomes, forming dense colonies that can help stabilize soil in open, sunny areas.
Historically used by indigenous people for herbal remedies, including poultices for swelling and fevers.
Its common name comes from the dense gray-green hairs covering its leaves and stems, giving the whole plant a soft, downy texture.
Supports bees, butterflies, and beetles, while its seeds provide food for goldfinches and other birds.
Spreads by rhizomes, forming dense colonies that can help stabilize soil in open, sunny areas.
Historically used by indigenous people for herbal remedies, including poultices for swelling and fevers.
Bloom: late summer to early fall
Habitats: abandoned fields; areas along roadsides and railroads; barrens with sparse vegetation; clay prairies; mesic to dry black soil prairies; rocky glades; sand prairies; thickets
Lifespan: perennial
Moisture: mesic to dry
Plant type (height): forb (2 to 4 feet)
Requirements: full sun
Soil: clay; rocky material; sand (prefers poor soil)
