Kruckeberg Botanic Garden Plant of the month: Pearly everlasting

Pearly everlasting

By Sarah Baker, Garden Director

Pearly everlasting (Anaphalis margaritacea) is a Northwest native found throughout the northern hemisphere, often on dry roadsides, vacant lots, and waste areas. Its native range is extensive, encompassing NE Asia and much of North America. It has naturalized in Europe. Some may consider it weedy, but it is also a beautiful native plant that thrives on sun, drought, and neglect, a desirable characteristic for many gardeners. Whether you consider it a wildflower or a weed is your choice!

Pearly everlasting’s long lasting white flowers bloom in late summer. Its leaf undersides are covered in tiny hairs, giving the leaves a wooly feel and lovely silvery appearance. For best results, plant it in full sun to part shade. Moist, fertile, well-drained soil is best, but it can thrive in a variety of soil types.

Pearly everlasting is useful for the home garden. It is popular for dried flower gatherers; the stems, leaves, and flowers make lovely additions to dried flower arrangements. Those who plant with wildlife in mind, take note: Pearly everlasting attracts butterflies, making a great addition to butterfly gardens, and also provides a nectar source for the beneficial insects that savvy gardeners know they should attract.

The Kruckeberg Botanic Garden is located at 20312 15th Ave NW. For more information, see the website  or call 206-546-1281. The Garden is located in a residential area with limited on-street parking. When visiting, please carpool or use alternate means of transportation when possible.