Shop Online

Besseya bullii

Home » Plants » Besseya bullii

Besseya bullii

Common Name: Kittentails

Besseya bullii, commonly known as Kittentails, is a rare perennial herb that grows up to 16 inches tall. It produces a basal rosette of leaves and a dense, spike-like inflorescence of small, tubular flowers ranging in color from greenish to purplish, blooming in spring. This species is typically found in dry prairies, open woodlands, bluffs and hillsides, often in sandy or rocky soils. Due to its rarity and specialized habitat requirements, Kittentails are primarily of interest in conservation and native plant restoration projects. The Minnesota DNR lists this species as State Threatened.

Characteristics

Type	Forb
Sun	Partial Sun
Soil	Sand/Gravel, Calcareous
Moisture	Dry, Mesic
Average Max Height (inches)	8
Suggested Plant Spacing (inches)	12
Bloom month(s)	April, May, June
Bloom Color or Type	Yellow
Dominance	Low

Range Maps

Sowing Information

For most homeowners, the recommended method is to hand-broadcast seed at a minimum rate of 16–64 PLS (Pure Live Seed) ounces per acre. To ensure even coverage, broadcast the seed in perpendicular passes across the site. Grass seed should be broadcast first and lightly raked into the soil. Afterward, apply a light mulch layer using clean, seed-free straw or, preferably, our native Little Bluestem straw, available at our retail garden centers. Once mulching is complete, broadcast native wildflower seed over the area without raking it in. A good rainfall or thorough watering will provide sufficient soil contact for successful germination.

Planting Information

Dig a hole in your planting site slightly larger than the plant’s root system. When placing the plant into the hole, ensure that the soil line remains consistent with its original level in the pot. Fill in around the roots with the excavated soil, gently firming it to eliminate air pockets. Water the plant thoroughly the same day to promote successful establishment.

Back to all Plants