Cotton-batting-plant
Pseudognaphalium stramineum
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
8"–24" H × 6"–12" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
AZ, CA, CO, ID and 14 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles, flies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Cotton-batting-plant is a compact annual wildflower with soft, woolly gray-green foliage that gives it a silvery appearance. It produces clusters of small white to cream colored flowers from summer into fall, creating a cottony texture that inspired its common name.
In an HOA neighborhood
Cotton-batting-plant takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Annual growth habit creates gaps in plantings
- Woolly appearance can look unkempt to conventional gardeners
- May be perceived as weedy rather than ornamental
Wildlife value
This native plant attracts bees, beetles, and flies during its long blooming period from June through September. Its extended flower season provides consistent nectar sources for pollinators throughout the growing season.
Common questions
- How much sun does Cotton-batting-plant need?
- Cotton-batting-plant grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Cotton-batting-plant bloom?
- Cotton-batting-plant blooms in June, July, August, and September.
- Where is Cotton-batting-plant native?
- Cotton-batting-plant (Pseudognaphalium stramineum) is native to AZ, CA, CO, ID and 14 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Cotton-batting-plant attract?
- Cotton-batting-plant draws bees, beetles, and flies.
- Is Cotton-batting-plant HOA-friendly?
- Cotton-batting-plant takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Cotton-batting-plant? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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