Prairie Smoke
Herbaceous perennial growing 20-40 cm tall. Features finely divided, fern-like leaves and nodding, pinkish flowers followed by feathery seed heads resembling smoke plumes. Prefers well-drained soils and full sun. Drought-tolerant once established. Attracts native bees. Provides early spring and late season interest. Suitable for rock gardens, prairie gardens, and dry meadows. Native to western and central North America.
Plant Details
Bloom Colour: Pinkish-Purple
Bloom Time: Late-Spring to Early-Summer
Sun Requirements: Sun to Part-Sun
Moisture: Dry to Moist-Drained
Phenology: Semi-evergreen basal leaves. New growth emerges April. Pink nodding flowers appear May. Feathery seed heads develop June-July, providing extended interest.
Wildlife Value: Attracts native bees and butterflies; seeds with plumes used as nesting material by birds; deer resistant
Habit Over Time: Forms tidy clumps of ferny foliage that gradually expand from the center. While it may self-seed in open soil, it does not spread aggressively through rhizomes. The delicate flowering stems create a transparent layer above the foliage, allowing views through to neighboring plants. Seed heads provide extended seasonal interest.
Height: Short to Medium (6-18 inches)