Pearly Everlasting
anaphalis margaritacea
Also known as: ["Western Pearly Everlasting","Meadow Pearly Everlasting"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant native to North America, known for its persistent, pearly-white flower heads and silvery foliage.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","deer resistant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Anaphalis |
| Botanical Name: | Anaphalis margaritacea |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: border plantings, rock gardens, or containers in temperate climates
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter; can tolerate poor soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning can be done as needed throughout the growing season.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant if necessary to rejuvenate growth.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight per day, with some afternoon shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sunlight; avoid placing near heat sources.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with moderate organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of potting soil, perlite, and compost; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); tolerates cooler nights but avoids extreme heat.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; maintain consistent temperatures; protect from drafts.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Apply fertilizer to moist soil to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing in late fall.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Maintain humidity and warmth.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), indirect light, and warm temperatures (65–75°F or 18–24°C).
Medium
Well-draining potting mix, such as a mix of peat, perlite, and sand.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to encourage faster root development.
Timeline
Roots typically develop in 3–6 weeks; new growth may appear in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting bottle, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems for cuttings; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushier growth; cut back leggy stems to encourage branching.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased parts.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp scissors, or a knife; sterilize tools before use.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during dormancy; remove dead or diseased parts; shape the plant as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger than the current one (e.g., +2–3 inches in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a new pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound; provides fresh soil and room for growth.
Checklist
Select appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting; place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water early in the day to minimize evaporation and fungal growth.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply when the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or bud drop in response to extreme temperatures.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and may cause leaf drop or damage if exposed to prolonged freezing temperatures.
Solution: Protect from frost with a cover or move indoors; ensure good air circulation to prevent mold.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow or stop in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting; ensure adequate watering.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize monthly during growing season (spring to early fall); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicAnaphalis margaritacea is not toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of adverse effects in felines after ingestion.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicAnaphalis margaritacea is not toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of adverse effects in canines after ingestion.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicAnaphalis margaritacea, commonly known as Western Pearly Everlasting, is not considered toxic to humans. It has no known adverse physiological effects when ingested in typical quantities.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Anaphalis margaritacea toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: How much maintenance does it require?
A: It requires very low maintenance and is drought tolerant.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
