What Are the Different Types of Dusty Miller Plant

Dusty miller, also known as silver ragwort, is a popular plant for gardeners and landscapers. It gets its name from the soft, silvery-grey foliage that covers the leaves and stems. This plant is valued for its unique texture and color, which adds interest to any garden or landscape. There are several different types of dusty miller plants to choose from, each with its own unique characteristics.

Silver Dust Dusty Miller

One of the most popular varieties of dusty miller is the Silver Dust. This plant has finely cut, silvery-grey leaves that form a dense mound. It grows up to 12 inches tall and wide, making it ideal for borders or edging. Silver Dust plants prefer full sun to partial shade and well-draining soil.

Cirrus Dusty Miller

The Cirrus dusty miller is another popular variety that has a more delicate appearance. This plant has lacy, silver-grey foliage that forms a low mound. It grows up to 10 inches tall and 12 inches wide and prefers full sun to partial shade. The Cirrus dusty miller is an excellent choice for use in rock gardens or as ground cover.

New Look Dusty Miller

The New Look dusty miller is a newer variety that has a more compact growth habit than other types of dusty millers. This plant has attractive silver-grey foliage that forms a low, bushy mound. It grows up to 8 inches tall and 10 inches wide and prefers full sun to partial shade. The New Look dusty miller is an ideal choice for use in containers or as edging.

Silver Lace Dusty Miller

The Silver Lace dusty miller is another popular variety that has finely cut, silvery-grey foliage. This plant forms a low mound and grows up to 12 inches tall and wide. The Silver Lace prefers full sun to partial shade and well-draining soil. It is an excellent choice for use in rock gardens or as edging.

Silverado Dusty Miller

The Silverado dusty miller is a larger variety that has broader, silvery-grey leaves. This plant forms a dense, upright mound and grows up to 18 inches tall and wide. The Silverado prefers full sun to partial shade and well-draining soil. It is an excellent choice for use as a focal point in a garden or as a backdrop for other plants.

White Diamond Dusty Miller

The White Diamond dusty miller is a unique variety that has white foliage with green veins. This plant forms a low, compact mound and grows up to 10 inches tall and wide. The White Diamond prefers full sun to partial shade and well-draining soil. It is an excellent choice for use in containers or as edging.

Dusty miller plants are low-maintenance and easy to grow, making them an excellent choice for novice gardeners or those with limited time. They are also drought-tolerant and deer-resistant, making them an ideal choice for gardens in dry areas.

FAQ

How often should I water my dusty miller plant?

Dusty miller plants prefer well-drained soil and do not like to be overly wet. Water your plant when the top inch of soil is dry to the touch.

Can I grow dusty miller indoors?

Dusty miller is not typically grown indoors but can be grown in containers on a patio or balcony.

Will dusty miller plants attract bees or other insects?

Dusty miller is not known to attract bees or other insects, making it an excellent choice for those who are allergic or sensitive to bee stings.

Can I propagate dusty miller plants from cuttings?

Yes, dusty miller plants can be propagated from cuttings taken in the spring or summer. Simply remove a 4-inch cutting from the tip of a stem, remove the lower leaves, and place the cutting in moist soil. Keep the soil moist and in a warm, bright location until roots form.

How do I care for my dusty miller plant in the winter?

Dusty miller is hardy in USDA zones 8-10 and can be grown as an annual in colder climates. In areas with mild winters, the plant may die back to the ground but will regrow in the spring. In colder climates, it is best to replant dusty miller each year.