Plantain-Leaved Pussytoes (Antennaria plantaginifolia)
Antennaria plantaginifolia, commonly known as Plantain-Leaved Pussytoes, is a native perennial wildflower found in dry prairies, open woodlands, and rocky slopes throughout Illinois. It thrives in well-drained soils and prefers full sun to light shade, making it well-suited to tough, low-fertility sites.
This low-growing plant forms dense, mat-like rosettes of broad, gray-green leaves that resemble those of a plantain, giving the plant its name. In spring to early summer, it sends up short stalks topped with clusters of small, fuzzy white to pinkish-white flower heads, which resemble a cat’s paw—hence the name “pussytoes.” The plant typically grows 4 to 10 inches tall, making it an ideal ground cover for dry or rocky sites.
For Illinois native plant enthusiasts, Antennaria plantaginifolia is an excellent choice for rock gardens, erosion control, and native ground cover plantings. Its early blooms support native bees and other pollinators emerging in spring, while its foliage provides year-round texture and visual interest. It pairs well with other low-growing prairie or savanna species and helps create resilient, drought-tolerant plant communities.
Antennaria plantaginifolia, commonly known as Plantain-Leaved Pussytoes, is a native perennial wildflower found in dry prairies, open woodlands, and rocky slopes throughout Illinois. It thrives in well-drained soils and prefers full sun to light shade, making it well-suited to tough, low-fertility sites.
This low-growing plant forms dense, mat-like rosettes of broad, gray-green leaves that resemble those of a plantain, giving the plant its name. In spring to early summer, it sends up short stalks topped with clusters of small, fuzzy white to pinkish-white flower heads, which resemble a cat’s paw—hence the name “pussytoes.” The plant typically grows 4 to 10 inches tall, making it an ideal ground cover for dry or rocky sites.
For Illinois native plant enthusiasts, Antennaria plantaginifolia is an excellent choice for rock gardens, erosion control, and native ground cover plantings. Its early blooms support native bees and other pollinators emerging in spring, while its foliage provides year-round texture and visual interest. It pairs well with other low-growing prairie or savanna species and helps create resilient, drought-tolerant plant communities.
Antennaria plantaginifolia, commonly known as Plantain-Leaved Pussytoes, is a native perennial wildflower found in dry prairies, open woodlands, and rocky slopes throughout Illinois. It thrives in well-drained soils and prefers full sun to light shade, making it well-suited to tough, low-fertility sites.
This low-growing plant forms dense, mat-like rosettes of broad, gray-green leaves that resemble those of a plantain, giving the plant its name. In spring to early summer, it sends up short stalks topped with clusters of small, fuzzy white to pinkish-white flower heads, which resemble a cat’s paw—hence the name “pussytoes.” The plant typically grows 4 to 10 inches tall, making it an ideal ground cover for dry or rocky sites.
For Illinois native plant enthusiasts, Antennaria plantaginifolia is an excellent choice for rock gardens, erosion control, and native ground cover plantings. Its early blooms support native bees and other pollinators emerging in spring, while its foliage provides year-round texture and visual interest. It pairs well with other low-growing prairie or savanna species and helps create resilient, drought-tolerant plant communities.
Bloom: mid- to late spring
Habitats: abandoned fields; areas along woodland paths; bluffs; disturbed open woodlands; hill prairies; limestone glades; openings in upland forests; pastures; thickets; wooded slopes
Lifespan: perennial
Moisture: average to dry
Plant type (height): forb (up to 6 inches)
Requirements: full sun to light shade
Soil: poor soil that contains clay, rocky material, or sand