Jacobaea maritima 'Silver Dust' (Dusty Miller)

Dusty miller 'Silver Dust' is grown for one reason: its extraordinary silver-white, finely cut foliage that seems to glow in the garden even after dark. A classic annual for edging, containers, and mixed plantings, this selection of Jacobaea maritima (formerly Senecio cineraria) produces deeply lobed, feltlike leaves coated in dense white hairs that give the plant its distinctive dusty appearance.

This plant is remarkably well suited to coastal gardens. It tolerates salt spray, wind, and the cool summers of coastal Oregon with ease, and its Mediterranean origins mean it handles dry conditions once established. Plant in full sun to light shade in well-drained soil.

'Silver Dust' grows 6 to 12 inches tall and wide, making it ideal as a low edging plant or a textural accent in containers. Deer tend to avoid it. Note that dusty miller is mildly toxic if ingested, so keep it away from pets and children.