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Description
Antennaria Monocephala, also known as Rocky Mountain Pussytoes, is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to the western parts of North America, including Alaska, California, Montana, and Wyoming. The plant has a low-growing habit and can grow up to 6 inches tall with a spread of up to 12 inches. It produces small, white or pinkish flowers in early summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Antennaria |
Appearance
The leaves of Antennaria Monocephala are small, narrow, and hairy. They are arranged in a basal rosette and are about 1 inch long. The flowers are also small and grow in clusters at the top of the stem. They have a fluffy appearance due to the presence of many small bracts around each flower head. The flowers bloom in early summer and are usually white or pinkish in color.
Care Guide
Antennaria Monocephala is a hardy plant that is easy to care for. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. It is drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering. However, it can benefit from occasional deep watering during prolonged dry spells. Fertilization is not necessary, but a light application of compost or a balanced fertilizer in spring can help promote growth. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 3-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Antennaria Monocephala is generally pest-free and resistant to most diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if grown in poorly-drained soil. It is also vulnerable to damage from slugs and snails, which can eat the leaves and flowers. To prevent slug and snail damage, use copper tape or diatomaceous earth around the base of the plant.
Habitat
Antennaria Monocephala is native to the rocky slopes and meadows of the western parts of North America. It prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate cold temperatures and high altitudes. It is commonly found growing in rocky and gravelly areas, as well as in alpine and subalpine meadows.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Antennaria Monocephala a good plant for rock gardens?
A: Yes, Antennaria Monocephala is an excellent choice for rock gardens due to its low-growing habit and preference for well-drained soil.
Q: Can Antennaria Monocephala be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Antennaria Monocephala can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-drained and the container is large enough to accommodate its spreading habit.
Q: How often should Antennaria Monocephala be fertilized?
A: Antennaria Monocephala does not require frequent fertilization. A light application of compost or a balanced fertilizer in spring can help promote growth.
Q: Does Antennaria Monocephala attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Antennaria Monocephala attracts butterflies and bees with its small, fluffy flowers.
Related Plants
- Antennaria Alpina
- Antennaria Anaphaloides
- Antennaria Arcuata
- Antennaria Crataegifolia
References
- https://www.fs.fed.us/wildflowers/plant-of-the-week/antennaria_monocephala.shtml
- https://www.nps.gov/plants/pubs/rockymountaineast/htm/ante_mon.htm
- https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=ANMO
