California Everlasting (Pseudognaphalium californicum) | Butterfly Host Plant 4 inch

Description

Commonly known as:
California Everlasting, California Cudweed, California Rabbit Tobacco

Description of Plant:
Pseudognaphalium californicum is a fragrant California native perennial known for its soft, silvery-green foliage and clusters of small, creamy-white flowers. Its leaves release a distinctive maple syrup-like fragrance, especially during warm weather. From spring through summer, the flowers attract beneficial insects while the foliage supports butterfly caterpillars. In addition, California Everlasting serves as an important host plant for the American Lady and Painted Lady butterflies.

Growth Habit:
This upright, branching perennial typically grows 2–4 feet tall and 1–3 feet wide. Its soft, woolly foliage creates an attractive, natural appearance. It may reseed in suitable garden conditions.

Watering Instructions:
Water regularly during establishment. Once established, provide occasional deep watering and allow the soil to dry between waterings. It tolerates dry summer conditions and requires little supplemental irrigation.

Soil Needs:
Prefers well-draining sandy, rocky, or loamy soil. It adapts to relatively poor soils and thrives in natural California garden conditions.

Sun Requirements:
Grows best in full sun to partial shade. Coastal plants tolerate full sun, while inland gardens may benefit from some afternoon shade.

Indoor or Outdoor Tips:
Best grown outdoors in native gardens, butterfly habitats, wildflower meadows, and naturalized landscapes. Allow some plants to complete their life cycle and produce seed to encourage natural regeneration.

Perennial or Annual:
Short-lived perennial in Southern California. It may also behave as a biennial or reseeding annual depending on growing conditions.

Additional Tips:
Butterfly Host Plant: California Everlasting supports American Lady and Painted Lady butterfly caterpillars, which feed on its leaves. Fragrant: The foliage releases a sweet, maple syrup-like aroma when warmed or brushed. Medicinal: Indigenous Californians have traditionally used everlasting plants in herbal preparations, although specific uses vary by species and cultural tradition. Avoid pesticides to protect developing butterfly caterpillars.