Siberian thistle, Pearl flower
anaphalis triplinervis
Also known as: ["Siberian thistle","Pearl flower"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant with white, woolly-haired stems and leaves, producing clusters of small, white, daisy-like flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Anaphalis |
| Botanical Name: | Anaphalis triplinervis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: border plantings or rock gardens in temperate regions
- 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 but performs best with some fertility.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually after flowering; light pruning can be done as needed throughout the growing season.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant if overgrown, but avoid heavy pruning during flowering
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight per day; adjust for intense summer sun by providing afternoon shade.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun to prevent scorching; for indoor placement, use a south-facing window with filtered light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid placing in drafty areas.
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 some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a cactus or succulent mix as a base; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); tolerates cooler nights; avoid extreme heat or cold drafts.
Avoid placing near heating/cooling vents; maintain consistent temperatures; protect from sudden temperature drops.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; stop fertilizing when flowering begins to avoid excessive foliage growth; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep humid and warm.
Best Time: Early spring or late summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture in the medium.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 3–6 weeks; new growth may take an additional 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity until roots form; avoid overwatering.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushier growth; cut back stems just above a leaf node or bud; remove dead or crossing branches.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased parts; also prune after flowering to promote reblooming.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilized scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune after flowering; remove dead/diseased parts; shape the plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; ensure the new pot has drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound; beneficial for maintaining vigor and flowering.
Checklist
Choose 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 at the base; ensure drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the day to allow foliage to dry; avoid waterlogging by ensuring proper drainage.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration by avoiding compacted soil.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or bud drop in response to extreme temperatures or sudden fluctuations.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can slow growth and cause leaf discoloration; prolonged exposure may lead to frost damage or death.
Solution: Protect from frost with a frost cloth or move to a sheltered location; ensure good air circulation to prevent mold.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering; may lead to dehydration if water needs are not met.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring to early summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicAnaphalis triplinervis is not toxic to cats. There are no known adverse effects on feline health from ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicAnaphalis triplinervis is not toxic to dogs. There are no known adverse effects on canine health from ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicAnaphalis triplinervis is generally considered non-toxic to humans. There are no known toxic effects or physiological impacts associated with ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How tall does Anaphalis triplinervis grow?
A: It typically grows to 60–90 cm in height.
Q: Does it require full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Q: Is it suitable for container gardening?
A: While possible, it is best suited for garden beds due to its size and growth habit.
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
