A native biennial or short-lived perennial that grows in disturbed places.This species is a pioneer plant that helps to prepare the site, and aids in the establishment of longer-lived plants in the native landscape. If the soil is not disturbed for a certain amount of time the population of Gnaphalium will gradually decline, while frequent soil disturbance will have the opposite effect. The creamy flowers are used in dried, and fresh flower arrangements, hence the name, Pearly Everlasting. The American Painted Lady Butterfly uses this plant as food for its larvae. Observed in disturbed coastal sage scrub. Grows with Artemisia californica, Baccharis pilularis, Eriogonum spp. and Lotus spp. Will grow in shaly, clay soil. Pearly Everlasting is well suited for an informal, cottage style garden.
Syn. Pseudognaphalium californicum
Gnaphalium californicum tolerates seaside conditions, alkaline soil, salt, sand, clay, serpentine, no drainage, seasonal flooding, high traffic(people walking on it) and deer.
Gnaphalium californicum is great for a butterfly garden.
Foliage of Gnaphalium californicum has color green-gray, is evergreen and has fragrance.
Flower of Gnaphalium californicum has color white.
Communities for Gnaphalium californicum:Chaparral and Central Oak Woodland.