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Wright's Rabbit-tobacco

Pseudognaphalium canescens

Last reviewed: June 2026

Wright's Rabbit-tobacco (Pseudognaphalium canescens)
Photo: (c) Andrew Tree, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Andrew Tree

Light

full sun

Water

low

Size

8"–24" H × 6"–12" W

Bloom

Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep

Native to

AZ, CA, CO, ID and 9 more states

Pollinators

bees, butterflies, beetles

Wright's rabbit-tobacco is a compact annual wildflower with soft, silvery-gray foliage and small white flower clusters. It grows in a neat, upright form and blooms continuously from June through September. This drought-tolerant plant thrives in sunny locations with minimal water once established.

In an HOA neighborhood

Wright's Rabbit-tobacco 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.

  • Common name includes 'tobacco' which may concern neighbors
  • Can appear weedy or wild to conventional gardeners
  • Annual nature means gaps when plants die back

Wildlife value

The long blooming period provides nectar for bees, butterflies, and beetles throughout the summer and early fall. The seeds also attract small birds and provide food for wildlife.

Common questions

How much sun does Wright's Rabbit-tobacco need?
Wright's Rabbit-tobacco grows best in full sun conditions.
When does Wright's Rabbit-tobacco bloom?
Wright's Rabbit-tobacco blooms in June, July, August, and September.
Where is Wright's Rabbit-tobacco native?
Wright's Rabbit-tobacco (Pseudognaphalium canescens) is native to AZ, CA, CO, ID and 9 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
What pollinators does Wright's Rabbit-tobacco attract?
Wright's Rabbit-tobacco draws bees, butterflies, and beetles.
Is Wright's Rabbit-tobacco HOA-friendly?
Wright's Rabbit-tobacco 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 Wright's Rabbit-tobacco? 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