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Howell's Pussytoes

Antennaria howellii

Last reviewed: June 2026

Howell's Pussytoes (Antennaria howellii)
Photo: USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database / Britton, N.L., and A. Brown. 1913. An illustrated flora of the northern United States, Canada and the British Possessions. Vol. 3: 450. / Wikimedia Commons (Public domain)

Light

full sun

Water

low

Size

4"–12" H × 4"–12" W

Bloom

May, Jun, Jul

Native to

CA, CO, CT, DE and 31 more states

Pollinators

bees, beetles

Howell's pussytoes is a low-growing evergreen perennial that forms compact mats of silvery-gray foliage. It produces small, fuzzy white flower clusters from May through July and thrives in sunny, dry conditions. This drought-tolerant groundcover works well in rock gardens and areas with poor soil.

In an HOA neighborhood

Howell's Pussytoes is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 3 out of 5.

Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.

Wildlife value

The flowers attract various bees and beetles during the late spring and summer blooming period. As a native groundcover, it provides habitat for small beneficial insects.

Common questions

How much sun does Howell's Pussytoes need?
Howell's Pussytoes grows best in full sun conditions.
When does Howell's Pussytoes bloom?
Howell's Pussytoes blooms in May, June, and July.
Where is Howell's Pussytoes native?
Howell's Pussytoes (Antennaria howellii) is native to CA, CO, CT, DE and 31 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
What pollinators does Howell's Pussytoes attract?
Howell's Pussytoes draws bees and beetles.
Is Howell's Pussytoes HOA-friendly?
Howell's Pussytoes is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.

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 Howell's Pussytoes? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.

Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz