Anaphalis is a genus of herbaceous and woody flowering plants within the family Asteraceae, whose members are commonly known by the name pearl or pearly everlasting. There are around 110 species with the vast majority being native to central and southern Asia. There is one species native to North America that is fairly well known and popular in cultivation, namely the western pearly everlasting (Anaphalis margaritacea). The name probably derives from the common practice of drying the flowers and stems for decorations through winter months. This plant was used extensively by Native Americans for a variety of medicinal purposes.

Anaphalis margaritacea, or Pearly everlasting, is a herbaceous perennial or biennial with long-lasting, yellowish-white flowers resembling tiny asters. In some cases, the plant will overwinter as a low rosette of leaves, while in other cases, the plant completes its growth and development within a single year The plant is found throughout North America and typically grows wild in moist meadows, by rivers, and in sandy and waste places. The dried stalks with their pure white flowers are attractive in dried floral arrangements. Pearly everlasting grows best in a light, well-drained, moist soil with full sun. However, it tolerates most soils, including dry or poor ones, and light shade. It seems to do well in the shade of buildings, but not the shade of trees, and it tolerates drought better than most species of Anaphalis. Pearly everlasting tolerates frost and usually flowers in late summer with seeds ripening in autumn. The plant is dioecious (that is, individual flowers are either male or female, but only one sex is to be found on any one plant) thus both male and female plants must be grown if seed is required. However, it is an easy plant to propagate by division. The stem has a soft grey colour from the hairs on its surface that makes it a good plant for separating other bold coloured flowers that might otherwise clash. Its short stature lends itself to use as an edging plant.