Antennaria rosea aka Rosy Pussytoes

Antennaria rosea is a low perennial in the sunflower family. Common names include rosy pussytoes, cat's foot, and mountain everlasting. Its native range runs from subarctic America into the western United States. It also occurs in the west-central United States. Wild plants grow in open meadows, prairies, and dry slopes. They also grow in alpine tundra, often on sand or rock. It is not native to Britain or Ireland.

The plant forms a low mat that can stay evergreen. RHS gives a garden height of about 0.3 feet [0.1 metres]. Its spread reaches about 1.6 feet [0.5 metres]. PFAF reports heights from 0.16–0.66 feet [0.05–0.2 metres]. Creeping stems and underground rhizomes help the mat spread. Small, woolly leaves range from spoon-shaped to narrow and pointed. Their upper sides look grey-green, while their undersides look white. RHS gives two to five years for plants to reach full size.

Small flower heads grow in clusters above the leaf mat. They have a soft, fluffy look and pink tones. Short stems bear leaves as well as the flower heads. Chicago Botanic Garden lists bloom from March through June. Male and female flowers grow on separate plants. The flowers supply nectar for native pollinators. Chicago also lists the plant as attracting birds and butterflies. Gardeners can dry the flower heads for use in arrangements.

Grow this species in full sun and soil that drains well. RHS recommends soil with a moderate level of fertility. Suitable soils include sand, loam, and chalk. It accepts acid, neutral, and alkaline soil conditions. Moisture guidance ranges from dry to moist, with good drainage essential. Chicago lists USDA zones 4–7; RHS assigns UK rating H5. The low mat suits rock gardens and the front of borders. Other uses include gravel beds, pots, and ground cover. Its spreading growth can help hold loose soil against erosion.

RHS reports few usual problems with pests or disease. Plants need no pruning, and seed offers a means of propagation. PFAF does not flag the species as a weed. Its leaves have a recorded use as a mild chew. They offer little food value and are not a major food source. PFAF lists no known hazards and no known medicinal uses. That hazard record does not establish safety for every person or pet.