Rosy pussytoes (Antennaria rosea, Pittonia 3(18): 281 (1898))

Family: Asteraceae

Author: Greene

Bibliography: Pittonia 3(18): 281 (1898)

Year: 1898

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Antennaria

Vegetable: False

Observations: Subarctic America to W. & WC. U.S.A.

Description

Rosy pussytoes, scientifically known as Antennaria rosea, is a charming and resilient plant belonging to the Asteraceae family. This species was first described in detail by the botanist Greene, as recorded in the publication Pittonia, Volume 3, Issue 18, on page 281, in the year 1898.

Antennaria rosea thrives across a wide range of regions, from the cold climates of subarctic America to the diverse environments of the western and west-central United States. This reflects the plant’s hardy nature and adaptability to various conditions, making it a unique member of its botanical family.

The plant itself is easily recognizable due to its delicate and appealing appearance. Rosy pussytoes display clusters of small, furry flower heads that possess a gentle pink hue, creating a soft, rosy effect, which is the inspiration behind its common name. These flowers are supported by rosettes of gray-green, woolly leaves, which add to its quaint aesthetic appeal.

Primarily found in open meadows, alpine regions, and rocky slopes, Antennaria rosea is well-adapted to high-altitude environments and poor, well-drained soils. This resilience makes it an excellent choice for gardens aiming to incorporate native, drought-tolerant plants.

The plant’s ecological role extends beyond its visual charm; it plays a significant part in supporting local ecosystems. It provides essential nectar and habitats for various pollinators, including butterflies and bees, hence contributing to the biodiversity of its habitat.

In summary, Rosy pussytoes (Antennaria rosea) is not just a beautiful addition to natural landscapes and gardens but also a crucial component of subarctic and American flora. Its aesthetic beauty, coupled with its ecological importance, underscores its value within the Asteraceae family.

Common Names

Fra: antennaire rosée, antennaire rose
Eng: rosy pussy-toes, rosy pussytoes, pink pussytoes
En: Rosy pussytoes, Pink Everlasting, Pink Pussytoes, Rose pussytoes, Rosy pussy-toes
Fr: Antennaire rosée, Antennaire rose

Synonyms

Distribution

• Alaska (native)
• Alberta (native)
• Arizona (native)
• British Columbia (native)
• California (native)
• Colorado (native)
• Greenland (native)
• Idaho (native)
• Labrador (native)
• Maine (native)
• Manitoba (native)
• Michigan (native)
• Minnesota (native)
• Montana (native)
• Nevada (native)
• New Mexico (native)
• Newfoundland (native)
• North Dakota (native)
• Northwest Territorie (native)
• Nunavut (native)
• Ontario (native)
• Oregon (native)
• Québec (native)
• Saskatchewan (native)
• South Dakota (native)
• Utah (native)
• Washington (native)
• Wyoming (native)
• Yukon (native)

Additional Images

Habit

Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − WVU Herbarium (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Dec 19, 2014 by EOL − podiceps (cc-by-nc)

Taken Apr 15, 2012 by EOL − Gary A. Monroe (cc-by-nc)

Taken May 24, 2021 by Dieter Wagner (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 25, 2021 by Dieter Wagner (cc-by-sa)

Flower

Taken Aug 14, 2015 by EOL − Barry Breckling (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Jul 2, 2003 by EOL − Steve Matson (cc-by-nc)

Taken May 24, 2021 by Dieter Wagner (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 25, 2021 by Dieter Wagner (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 28, 2020 by Chelsea Rye (cc-by-sa)

Leaf

Taken Aug 7, 2022 by Eylisia (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 30, 2021 by Cade Lillquist (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 27, 2021 by Daniel Gonzales (cc-by-sa)

Fruit

Taken Dec 19, 2014 by EOL − podiceps (cc-by-nc)

Taken Jul 2, 2003 by EOL − Steve Matson (cc-by-nc)

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/5385499)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:272200-2)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Antennaria rosea (D.C.Eaton) Greene)

Specifications

Growth habit: Forb/herb

Growth