Tidestromia lanuginosa (Woolly Tidestromia)

Plant Profile

Tidestromia lanuginosa, commonly called Woolly Tidestromia, is a low, spreading annual or short-lived perennial with densely woolly, silver-white foliage that creates a striking mat. Inconspicuous greenish flowers appear in leaf axils. Native to arid regions of the southwestern US and Mexico, it is exceptionally heat and drought tolerant.

Key Characteristics

• Family: Amaranthaceae
• Genus: Tidestromia (tide-STROM-ee-a)
• Species: lanuginosa (lan-oo-gih-NO-suh)

Growing Conditions

Full sun, extremely well-drained soil. Thrives in intense heat and poor soil. Grown as a warm-season annual in most climates.

Landscape Uses

Used for its unique foliage texture and color in rock gardens, xeriscapes, and as a temporary groundcover in hot, dry areas.

Maintenance

Minimal. Allow to self-seed if desired. No serious pests.