Rocky mountain pussytoes
The Rocky Mountain states, and all states to the west
Rocky places in the tundra zone; 5,000 to 12,500 feet
Basal leaves are oblanceolate to spatulate, up to 0.8 inches long. Stem leaves are linear
Identifying features of antennaria media include the clustered flowerheads (rather than single), the small grey-hairy leaves with just one, central vein, and the dark brown phyllaries. Plants form low mats, spreading via short (less than 2 inches) stolons. Leaves grow at the base and along the erect stems; they are relatively thick, and have a sharp point at the apex. Both surfaces are evenly covered by appressed greyish hairs. Basal leaves are wider towards the top; stem leaves are narrower, equal in length and more linear in shape.
The inflorescence usually comprises between 2 and 7 flowerheads; less often up to 9. Flowerheads contain only pistils or only stamens, the latter less common. Phyllary color varies from black to brown to greenish-brown. Phyllaries and stems have a covering of white hairs. Phyllaries of pistillate flowerheads are broad and rounded at the tip, while those of staminate flowerheads are narrower and more pointed.