Plant of the Month – February
0Linear-leaved Goldenbush
Narrowleaf Goldenbush
Showy Goldenbush
Ericameria linearifolia
- Plant Form: Evergreen shrub
- Water Use: Very low
- Mature Size: 2-3 ft. tall x 3-4 ft. wide
- Exposure: Full sun
- Bloom Time: Spring (March-May)
- Native to: California, Arizona, Nevada, Utah
- Hardiness: Cold hardy to 10°F
Butterflies, birds, and gardeners love the showy spring flowers that this California native goldenbush lends to native desert gardens, while resisting browsing by rabbits and deer and requiring no added water after becoming established.
Linear-leaved Goldenbush is a moderately fast-growing, erect shrub that is highly branched. One of its common names, Showy Goldenbush, was inspired by its prolific spring display of bright yellow, daisy-like flowers on long stems above dark green foliage. The aromatic, resinous, linear leaves of this California native deter browsing by rabbits and deer, while its radiant flowers attract butterflies and other pollinators. It is evergreen, but may drop some leaves during extended droughts. Valued today to achieve a natural look in landscaping, it was prized by Native Americans as a decoction to treat rheumatism. Works well as an accent, in a mixed border, or used in a mass planting for butterfly or bird gardens, as well as on slopes for erosion control.
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