Also known as Woolly Mule-Ears
Woolly mule's ears (Wyethia mollis) is a striking perennial wildflower native to western North America, known for its large, woolly leaves and bright yellow daisy-like fl
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
100% intensity
Prefers at least six hours of direct sunlight per day for optimal growth and flowering. Tolerates partial shade but may become leggy.
Drought Tolerant
25% intensity
Allow soil to dry completely between waterings once established. Native to arid regions, it requires minimal supplemental water.
Sandy, Well-drained
50% intensity
Moderate to High
50% intensity
Tolerates a wide range of temperatures, including hot, dry conditions. Protect from extreme cold in colder climates.
Low
0% intensity
Generally does not require fertilization. Grows well in poor, well-drained soils. Avoid excessive feeding.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
None
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water woolly mule's ears regularly during its first growing season to establish a strong root system.
Once established, it is highly drought-tolerant and requires minimal supplemental watering, particularly in its native arid or semi-arid habitats. Allow soil to dry out completely between waterings.
Prune woolly mule's ears after flowering to remove spent flower stalks, which can improve the plant's appearance and prevent self-seeding if undesired. Cut back dead foliage in late fall or early spring before new growth emerges to maintain a tidy habit and prepare for the next season.
Propagate woolly mule's ears by seed, which can be sown directly in the garden in fall or early spring. Germination may be improved with a period of cold stratification.
Division of established clumps in early spring is also a viable method for propagation.
Repotting is generally not necessary for woolly mule's ears, as it prefers to be undisturbed in well-drained soil. If growing in a container, repot only when the plant becomes root-bound, typically every 2-3 years, during early spring before new growth begins.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Woolly Mule's Ears (Wyethia mollis)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Wyethia |
| Species | Wyethia mollis |
Similar in genus Wyethia
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
