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Ceratoides (Eurotia) lanata
Common Name Winterfat
Family Chenopodiaceae (Goosefoot Family)

Description

Also known as white-sage, this shrub stands about 0.8 meters off the ground. Its distinguishing hairy foliage gives it a light greenish-silvery appearance. The seedheads become very puffy, resembling cotton, as they mature.

Range

It has an extremely wide distribution, ranging from the Yukon to Mexico. Elevation: sea level (Death Valley, CA) - 10,000ft. (Central Utah)

Culture

Winterfat is known for its high salt tolerance. Does well in alkaline soils. Also tolerates high heat and extreme cold temperatures. Zones 3 - 7.

Value

Winterfat has the assets of tremendous drought tolerance, and remarkably fluffy seed heads that sufficiently cover the plant to make it look like an exploded pillow on the landscape. Moderately common in trade.

Propagation

Seeds should be collected in late October to early November, and sown 3 to 4 months after that. Seeds are sown outdoors in shallow depressions will germinate readily. These seeds can be very fun to start indoors as they germinate within 3 to 10 days and are visible during germination. Sow seed on top of soil (keep the soil fluffy, do not pack it down) Do Not Cover and lightly press the seed into the soil with a finger or wooden block.. Keep the seed and surface lightly moist during germination. A spray bottle works well for this. These seedlings will rot easily after they have come up. A deep watering after the top of the soil has just started to dry works well after they have their leaves.