Golden Eardrops

(Ehrendorferia chrysantha)

Golden Eardrops (Ehrendorferia chrysantha)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Ehrendorferia chrysantha, commonly known as Golden Eardrops, is a biennial to perennial herb native to the chaparral and oak woodlands of California and Baja California, where it thrives in the dry, brushy areas that are periodically swept by wildfires. It typically grows to a height of 3-6 feet (0.9-1.8 meters) with a similar spread. The plant features distinctive blue-green, pinnately lobed leaflets and produces clusters of pendulous, yellow, aromatic flowers with outward-curved petals during the late spring to early summer months. The flowers are quite showy and attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies.

Golden Eardrops are valued for their striking floral display and ability to adapt to dry, challenging conditions, making them suitable for xeriscaping and native plant gardens. They require minimal maintenance once established and are often used in restoration projects, especially in areas with a history of wildfires. In cultivation, they prefer full sun to partial shade, well-drained soils, and are drought-tolerant once established. While they do not have major disease problems, they can be short-lived and may need to be replaced every few years.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 2-4 feet
  • Width: 2-3 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Yellow
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Semi-deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Low, Medium
  • Drainage: Medium, Fast

Common Uses

Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Low Maintenance, Rock Garden

Natural Habitat

Native to the chaparral and oak woodlands of California and Baja California

Other Names

Common Names: Yellow Fumitory

Scientific Names: , Ehrendorferia chrysantha, Bikukulla chrysantha, Capnorchis chrysantha, Dicentra chrysantha, Dicentra chrysantha, Diclytra chrysantha, Diclytra chrysantha, Dielytra chrysantha,

GBIF Accepted Name: