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)
Hardiness: Cold Hardy to 10°F
Native to: California, Arizona, Nevada, Utah
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.
THIS MONTH IN YOUR DESERT-SMART LANDSCAPE
Good month to control winter weeds before they flower.
- Plant ground covers, bulbs, low-water use plants, & natives if you missed the fall planting season
- Plant bare-root trees and shrubs through early March
- Prune evergreens now, but no later than spring or summer
- Prune the rest of your summer-blooming deciduous fruit & nut trees, roses, & dormant shrubs
- Fertilize perennials & trees with slow-release plant food (most natives and drought-adapted plants don’t need fertilizer)
- Water trees deeply to prepare for spring growth surge (deep roots protect trees from blowing over)
- Turn off irrigation timers if it rains