Antennaria plantaginifolia (Pussytoes)

Antennaria plantaginifolia, also called pussytoes and mouse ear, is a low-growing fuzzy perennial groundcover plant native to much of the eastern United States. Typically found in dry, well-draining soils like sand, rocks, or sloped forest areas, Antennaria plantaginifolia draws its common name name pussytoes from the appearance of its developing flowers which resemble the fuzzy paws of a kitten, and its name mouse ear from the soft, downy texture of its small leaves. Pussytoes is resistant to deer and rabbit damage, as some plant parts contain chemicals that are poisonous or distasteful, and plants tolerate full sun to partial shade.

When not in flower, mouse ear is typically found as a mat of fuzzy, silvery-green leaves that spread by runners, and not growing much taller than two or three inches. When flowering in the mid-spring to early summer, pussytoes can reach about six inches in height, with small, white and pink blooms that are highly attractive to a number of pollinators, but especially butterflies, including the American Lady (Vanessa virginiensis) which almost exclusively feeds on the nectar of Antennaria plantaginifolia. A low-growing, low-maintenance groundcover, pussytoes is an excellent addition to the home landscape, where it can be used in rock gardens, as a bed filler, or even as a lawn replacement in especially dry, nutrient-poor areas.