White Sweet Everlasting (Gnaphalium obtusifolium) is a beautiful native wildflower and herb that brings natural charm to any garden. Known for its silvery foliage and clusters of small, white, papery blooms, this perennial (often grown as an annual) is prized by herbalists, pollinators, and butterfly enthusiasts alike.
Its delicate, long-lasting blooms retain their beauty when dried, making them ideal for crafts, wreaths, and everlasting bouquets. With a soft, pleasant fragrance, White Sweet Everlasting also has a long history of use in traditional herbal remedies and as a soothing aromatic herb.
Features
- Native North American wildflower and herbal plant
- Produces clusters of tiny white, papery blooms
- Attracts butterflies and beneficial insects
- Excellent for dried flower arrangements
- Drought-tolerant and low maintenance
- Non-GMO, open-pollinated wildflower seeds
Specifications
- Scientific Name: Gnaphalium obtusifolium
- Common Name: White Sweet Everlasting
- Plant Type: Annual or Short-Lived Perennial Herb
- Seed Type: Non-GMO, Heirloom
- Flower Color: White
- Foliage: Silvery-green, soft, and aromatic
- Mature Height: 12–24 inches (30–60 cm)
- USDA Hardiness Zones: 4–9
- Light Requirements: Full Sun to Partial Shade
- Soil Type: Well-drained, sandy or loamy soil
- Watering Needs: Low to Moderate (drought tolerant)
- Bloom Time: Mid-Summer to Early Fall
- Plant Spacing: 10–12 inches apart
- Uses: Pollinator garden, herbal uses, dried flowers, natural landscaping
- Container Friendly: Yes
Planting Guide
- Sow seeds outdoors after the last frost or start indoors 6–8 weeks earlier.
- Scatter seeds on the soil surface and press lightly; do not cover deeply.
- Keep soil moist until germination (10–15 days).
- Choose a sunny, well-drained location.
- Space plants about 10–12 inches apart.
- Water sparingly once established—plants are drought-resistant.
- Deadhead flowers to extend blooming or leave some for reseeding.
- Harvest blooms for drying before they fully open.
- Suitable for naturalized or butterfly garden plantings.
- Minimal fertilization needed for best results.