Description
Form: Herbaceous stems growing from a woody base (subshrub).
Lifespan: Perennial.
Leaf retention: Drought deciduous.
Growth rate: Rapid.
Mature Size: 1-2' (30-60cm) high and 2-3' (60-90cm) wide.
Flowers: About 1" (2.5cm) wide, long-lasting yellow rays which turn papery off-white with age and remain on the plant. The rays surround a center disc of yellow florets.
Bloom: Spring through fall in response to rain. Blooming ceases during drought.
Fruit: Each floret produces one dried fruit with a single seed (cypsela), tufted at one end.
Leaves: Slender, hairy, silvery to green.
Stems: Semi-woody, many-branched, leafy, hairy, silvery to green. One flower appears at each branch tip.
Wildlife: The flowers attract pollinating insects, possibly butterflies and moths.
Toxic / Danger: This plant is not known to be toxic, however other Psilostrophe species are toxic to livestock, especially sheep in winter.
Origin: California through New Mexico, Nevada, Utah and Mexico.

Cultivation and Uses
USDA hardiness zones: 8b-11.
Heat tolerant: Yes.
Drought tolerant: After several months of drought, this plant loses its leaves and dies to the ground. It recovers from its roots during summer rains.
Sun: Full sun. This plant grows leggy in part shade.
Soil: Well draining, dry, sandy, low organic content, pH 6.6-8.5 (neutral to alkaline).
Water once established: Monthly.
Mulch: Bare soil or gravel. Avoid organic mulch.
Litter: Low.
Propagation: Seed.
Uses: Ornamental, low water (xeriscape) garden.

Comments
This plant is a member of the Daisy family (Asteraceae). Another common name is Whitestem Paperflower.

---

Do you have additional information or a different experience for these plants that you would like to share? Email info@GardenOracle.com. All contributions are welcome and appreciated.