Marsh cudweed
Gnaphalium uliginosum · Asteraceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant marsh cudweed: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Common name
- Marsh Cudweed
- Family
- Asteraceae
- Type
- Annual herb
- Adult height
- 15 to 30 cm
- Flowering
- July to September
- Foliage
- Deciduous, woolly (cottony)
- Hardiness
- Not very hardy, frost-sensitive
- Origin
- Temperate and humid regions of Europe and Asia
Care
Watering
This small herb loves humid and marshy environments; keep the soil regularly moist, especially during growth. However, avoid waterlogging in pots. In the garden, let the soil drain naturally after rain.
Light Exposure
Marsh cudweed prefers full sun or partial shade. It tolerates slightly shaded areas well, particularly in warm climates. Place it in an airy location to minimize fungal issues.
Soil
Choose moist, acidic to neutral soil, rich in organic matter. Marshy or peaty soils are ideal. In pots, use a draining mix enriched with peat or substrate for moisture-loving plants.
Pruning and Cutting
No real pruning is necessary; simply cut back withered stems after flowering to encourage seed formation or maintain a compact shape. Leave flowers to dry on the plant if you want natural reseeding.
Fertilizer
Apply a light balanced fertilizer in spring or early summer. This plant is not demanding and often thrives without extra feeding if the soil is rich in organic matter.
Diseases and Pests
Monitor excessive moisture, which can promote powdery mildew or rot. Ensure good air circulation around the plant. Pests are rare on this species. If fungal problems appear, remove affected parts and reduce leaf moisture.
Did you know?
Marsh cudweed is traditionally harvested in late summer to be dried and used in rustic floral arrangements or herbals. Its tiny whitish-grey flowers and leaves covered with fine cottony hairs give it a pearlescent appearance, hence its Latin name Gnaphalium, derived from the ancient Greek word meaning "down."
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
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- YarrowAchillea millefolium
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- SneezewortAchillea ptarmica
- Canadian goldenrodSolidago canadensis
- WormwoodArtemisia absinthium
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.