Pseudognaphalium

Pseudognaphalium is a genus of flowering plants in the family Asteraceae, commonly known as cudweeds or life everlastings. The genus is native to the Americas, with some species also found in Eurasia and Africa. Plants in this genus are typically small, herbaceous annuals or perennials, characterized by their woolly or felted leaves and stems, which are adaptations to arid or disturbed habitats. The inflorescences are usually small, dense clusters of tiny, inconspicuous flowers, often with a papery or straw-like texture, which is a characteristic of the Gnaphalieae tribe within the Asteraceae family.

The leaves of Pseudognaphalium species are usually alternate and simple, often oblong or lanceolate in shape. The woolly indumentum provides protection from sunlight and reduces water loss. The flower heads are typically discoid, meaning they lack ray florets and contain only tubular florets. These florets are usually white, cream, or yellowish. The fruits are achenes, a common characteristic of the Asteraceae family, and are typically small and winged, aiding in wind dispersal.

Species within Pseudognaphalium are often found in open, disturbed areas such as roadsides, fields, and sandy soils. They are known for their resilience and ability to colonize poor-quality soils. Some species have been used in traditional medicine for various ailments, though scientific evidence for these uses is often limited. The genus is closely related to the genus Gnaphalium, and taxonomic classifications have sometimes seen species moved between the two. The exact number of species and their distribution are subject to ongoing taxonomic research.