Stemodia tomentosa (Woolly Stemodia)

Plant Profile

Stemodia tomentosa, known as Woolly Stemodia or Silverleaf Stemodia, is a low, spreading perennial with soft, woolly, silver-gray leaves that give it a beautiful frosted appearance. It produces small, tubular, lavender-blue flowers sporadically throughout the warm season. Native to Texas and Mexico, it thrives in hot, dry conditions.

Key Characteristics

• Family: Plantaginaceae
• Genus: Stemodia (stem-OH-dee-a)
• Species: tomentosa (toh-men-TOH-suh)

Growing Conditions

Requires full sun and excellent drainage. Thrives in heat and humidity. Drought-tolerant once established. Hardy in USDA zones 8–11; often grown as an annual in cooler zones.

Landscape Uses

Great as a groundcover in xeric gardens, rock gardens, and containers. The silver foliage provides excellent contrast. Attracts pollinators.

Maintenance

Shear back lightly to encourage denser growth. Avoid overwatering. Generally pest-free.