Kittentails (Besseya bullii) | Prairie Restorations

Kittentails

Besseya bullii

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

Sow seed onto a firm, weed-free seedbed. Hand-broadcast seed making two perpendicular passes for even coverage. If planting a mix, broadcast the grass component first and lightly rake/drag it into the top 1/8–1/4" of soil. Next, broadcast wildflower/forb seed and press it into the soil surface (with a roller/cultipacker or the back of a rake) to ensure good seed-to-soil contact. After seeding, apply a very light layer of clean, seed-free straw (or other weed-free, site-appropriate mulch) to reduce erosion and retain moisture without smothering seedlings. A good rainfall or thorough watering will help settle seed and mulch and improve 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.