Chaenactis douglasii

Chaenactis douglasii is a commonly known as dustymaiden or hoary chaenactis, native to western North America where it thrives in dry, rocky, and sandy soils of grasslands, deserts, sagebrush scrub, and open woodlands. It is well adapted to arid and semi-arid conditions, often found at elevations ranging from low valleys to mountainous slopes, making it an important component of fragile ecosystems where water is scarce. The plant is relatively small and compact, typically reaching heights of 10 to 40 centimeters, with finely divided, gray-green to silvery foliage that gives it a dusty appearance due to the presence of fine hairs on the leaves and stems which help reduce water loss by reflecting sunlight and conserving moisture.

The flowers are the most distinctive feature of Chaenactis douglasii, consisting of clusters of small, tubular, white to pale pink florets arranged in button-like heads, lacking ray florets that are common in many members of the Asteraceae family, giving them a simple yet elegant look. Blooming generally occurs from late spring to summer depending on climate and elevation, and the flowers are particularly attractive to pollinators including bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, thereby supporting biodiversity in its habitat.

The plant is drought-tolerant and plays an ecological role in stabilizing soils, especially in disturbed or sandy areas, while also serving as a food source for native pollinators. Chaenactis douglasii has been used in traditional Native American medicine for treating various ailments, highlighting its ethnobotanical significance, though such uses should be approached with caution and respect for cultural practices. It is also valued in xerisc.