Woolly Mule's Ears (Wyethia mollis)

Woolly Mule's Ears

Also known as: Wooly Wyethia, Mule's Ears, Mule Ears

Woolly Mule's Ears (Wyethia mollis) is a perennial herb in the sunflower family that grows in the Sierra Nevada mountains in the western United States. The plant is native to California and very nearby surrounding areas. Blooms in late spring with large yellow flowers. Leaves are whitish-gray and deciduous in winter. Large hairy leaves look like mule’s ears, giving it its name.

Scientific classification

Species

Woolly Mule's Ears (Wyethia mollis)

Asters bellflowers fanflowers and allies

Instantly identify plants with a snap

Snap a photo for instant plant ID, gaining quick insights on disease prevention, treatment, toxicity, care, uses, and symbolism, etc.

Download the App for Free

Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Spring, Summer

Bloom Time

30 cm to 91 cm

Plant Height

30 cm to 90 cm

Spread

4 cm to 10 cm

Flower Size

Spring, Summer

Growth Season

Slow

Growth Rate

Images of Woolly Mule's Ears

Attributes of Woolly Mule's Ears

Growth Rate

When spring ushers in, the slow-growth-rate perennial woolly Mule's Ears start to grow. This relatively slow progress extends into the summer, resulting in a robust, though compact plant structure with dense foliage. The gradual growth allows early summer blooms to mature fully, adding aesthetic appeal. Intriguingly, woolly Mule's Ears's slow growth rate contributes to its resilience in tough mountainous terrains by conserving resources, yet sustaining steady growth.

Care Guide for Woolly Mule's Ears

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

15 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Woolly Mule's Ears, from North America's dry regions, is drought-tolerant and requires weekly watering. For indoor growth, it needs well-draining soil. As an herbaceous perennial, woolly Mule's Ears's water needs vary, increasing during active growth and decreasing during dormancy.

Fertilize: For woolly Mule's Ears, apply balanced fertilizers pre-bloom, transitioning to high phosphorus types to enhance flowering. Fertilize in spring and fall with about 0.5 teaspoons per plant. Adjust applications throughout growth stages and water after fertilizing to prevent root burn, ensuring healthy growth and blooms.

Pruning: Woolly Mule's Ears features unique woolly leaves and bright yellow flowers. Prune in early to late spring to remove dead leaves and spent flowers, promoting air circulation, preventing disease, and enhancing growth for the next season.

Propagation: Woolly Mule's Ears is a perennial herb that flourishes in well-drained soil with partial to full sun. For propagation, sow fresh seeds, lightly cover with soil, and maintain even moisture. Monitor seedlings and transplant them once they are robust enough to withstand relocation.

Get tips and tricks for your plants.

Keep your plants happy and healthy with our guide to watering, lighting, feeding and more.

Download the App for Free