Origin
Antennaria neodioica Greene ssp. howellii (Greene) Bayer, commonly known as Howell’s pussytoes, is a species of flowering plant native to western North America, ranging from British Columbia down to California and across to Montana.
Common Names
In addition to Howell’s pussytoes, this plant is also commonly referred to as Howell's cudweed and Mountain everlasting.
Uses
Antennaria neodioica Greene ssp. howellii has been traditionally used for medicinal purposes in various cultures. It is believed to have antiseptic, antidiarrheal, and diuretic properties. It was also used in earlier times for treating wounds, fever, and colds.
Aside from its medicinal uses, it is also regularly grown ornamentally in gardens and flowerbeds due to its attractive, woolly silver foliage, which provides year-round interest. Additionally, the plant provides essential nectar and pollen for bees and butterflies.
General Appearance
Antennaria neodioica Greene ssp. howellii is an herbaceous, perennial plant that typically grows to a height of 10-30 cm. It has narrow, woolly, and silver leaves that grow alternately along its stems. The plant blooms in late spring and early summer, with small, white or pinkish flowers that grow in clusters at the ends of its branches. The flowers are followed by clusters of seed heads that persist through the summer and early fall.
Light Requirements
Antennaria neodioica ssp. howellii typically grows in full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade may result in weak and leggy plants.
Temperature Requirements
This plant is native to high elevations, so it can tolerate cool to cold temperatures. It generally grows in areas with a continental climate, characterized by warm summers and cold winters. It is also very drought tolerant and can withstand extreme temperature fluctuations.
Soil Requirements
Antennaria neodioica ssp. howellii grows in well-drained, sandy or rocky soils. It prefers slightly acidic to neutral soils, with a pH range of 5.0 to 7.0. This plant has low nutrient requirements and can grow in poor, infertile soils. However, it may benefit from occasional fertilization with a low-nitrogen, slow-release fertilizer.
Cultivation
The Antennaria neodioica Greene ssp. howellii (Greene) Bayer plant is not picky and can grow in various conditions. However, it performs best in well-draining soil and full sunlight. If planted in areas with high moisture levels, it is recommended to plant in a raised bed or container to prevent waterlogging.
The plant can be propagated by seeds or cuttings in the spring or autumn. Sow the seeds directly into the soil or start indoors and transplant outdoors when the plants are established.
Watering Needs
Water the Antennaria neodioica Greene ssp. howellii (Greene) Bayer plant regularly but do not overwater, as it can lead to root rot. When planting in containers, ensure proper drainage, and water when the soil is dry to the touch. During long dry periods, water deeply but less frequently.
Fertilization
Antennaria neodioica Greene ssp. howellii (Greene) Bayer does not require regular fertilization. However, adding organic matter such as compost or mulch during planting can improve soil quality. Too much fertilizer can lead to leggy growth and decreased flowering.
Pruning
Antennaria neodioica Greene ssp. howellii (Greene) Bayer does not require regular pruning, but it can benefit from deadheading spent flowers to encourage prolonged blooming. Deadhead by removing the spent flower heads by pinching them off with your fingers or cutting them with shears. Prune back any damaged or overgrown stems in the early spring to promote new growth.
Propagation of Antennaria neodioica Greene ssp. howellii (Greene) Bayer
Antennaria neodioica Greene ssp. howellii (Greene) Bayer is a low-growing herbaceous perennial plant commonly known as Howell's pussytoes. The plant can be propagated by several methods, including seed propagation, division, and cuttings.
Propagation by seeds
The most common method of propagating Antennaria neodioica Greene ssp. howellii (Greene) Bayer is by seed. The seeds of this plant can be collected from mature flower heads during the summer months. The collected seeds should be dried and stored in a cool and dry place. In the fall, the seeds can be sown directly into the soil. The soil should be well-drained and moist. The seeds will germinate in the spring.
Propagation by division
Antennaria neodioica Greene ssp. howellii (Greene) Bayer can also be propagated by division. This is done by digging up the plant and dividing the roots into several sections. Each section should have at least one shoot and a good root system. The divided sections can then be planted into the desired location and watered thoroughly.
Propagation by cuttings
Propagation by cuttings is another method that can be used to propagate Antennaria neodioica Greene ssp. howellii (Greene) Bayer. This method involves taking stem cuttings from the plant during the growing season. The cuttings should be about four inches long and stripped of all but the topmost leaves. The cuttings can then be planted into a well-drained potting mix and kept moist. After about four weeks, the cuttings will develop roots and can be transplanted into the desired location.
Common Diseases and Pests
Antennaria neodioica Greene ssp. howellii (Greene) Bayer is a relatively disease-resistant plant, but it can be affected by a few common diseases and pests.
One of the most common diseases that affect Antennaria neodioica is Leaf Spot, caused by the fungus Mycosphaerella antennariicola. This disease causes small brown spots on the leaves that eventually turn black and fall off the plant. Another disease that can affect this plant is Powdery Mildew, caused by the fungus Erysiphe cichoracearum. This disease causes a powdery white growth on the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant.
The most common pest that affects Antennaria neodioica is the Aphid. These small insects feed on the sap of the leaves and can cause distorted growth and yellowing of the foliage. Another pest that can affect this plant is the Spider Mite. These tiny pests feed on the undersides of the leaves, causing yellowing and stippling of the foliage.
Management of Diseases and Pests
The best way to manage Leaf Spot and Powdery Mildew is to maintain good growing conditions for the plant. This includes providing adequate air circulation and avoiding overhead watering, which can create humid conditions that promote fungal growth. If the disease persists, you can use an appropriate fungicide, following the manufacturer’s directions carefully.
To manage Aphids and Spider Mites, the first step is to physically remove the pests by spraying the plant with a strong jet of water. You can also apply insecticidal soap or horticultural oil to the plant, making sure to coat the tops and undersides of the leaves. In severe infestations, you may need to use a chemical pesticide, but be sure to use one that is specifically labeled for use on Antennaria neodioica and follow all safety precautions.
Regular monitoring of your plants is the best way to catch diseases and pests early and prevent them from becoming a major problem. Proper maintenance and care of the growing environment can also go a long way in preventing problems before they start.
