Children aren't the only ones who take a guilty pleasure in petting the perennials. A weeping pussy willow, Salix caprea 'Pendula,' attracts attention with its fuzzy catkins. There are plenty of other plants that attract attention like bunnies in a petting zoo. Sagina subulata , commonly known as Scotch or Irish moss, is a velvety groundcover that is perfect between stepping stones. Some larger perennials also possess incredibly soft foliage.
Many grasses encourage touch as well.
Similarly, the seed heads of Pennisetum setaceum 'Rubrum' or purple fountain grass are like fluffy burgundy foxtails. However, not all plants with interesting texture encourage touch. Plants that are outright prickly can be very valuable in creating a garden with texture. Plants with fleshy leaves are worthy of consideration for the western garden. Not only do these plants provide texture in the landscape, they are also very drought tolerant.