Acton Brittlebush

(Encelia actoni)

Acton Brittlebush (Encelia actoni)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Encelia actoni, commonly known as Acton brittlebush, is a drought-tolerant, evergreen shrub native to the desert scrub, chaparral, and grasslands of southern California, Nevada, and Baja California. It typically grows to a height of 1–4 feet and can spread equally wide. The plant features distinctive gray-green, woolly leaves that help to reflect sunlight and conserve water. From late winter to early spring, it produces daisy-like flower heads with bright yellow ray florets that are highly attractive to pollinators such as bees and butterflies.

Acton brittlebush is valued for its low water requirements and its ability to thrive in poor, well-drained soils, making it an excellent choice for xeriscaping and drought-tolerant gardens. It is also used in habitat restoration projects, where its fire-retardant qualities can be beneficial in wildfire-prone areas. In cultivation, it prefers full sun and requires minimal maintenance once established. While it reseeds well, care should be taken in non-native areas as it can become invasive. It is also susceptible to root rot if overwatered or planted in poorly draining soils.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Shrub
  • Height: 2-5 feet
  • Width: 2-3 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Yellow
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

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

Common Uses

Bird Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Low Maintenance, Rock Garden, Showy Flowers, Street Planting

Natural Habitat

Native to desert scrub, chaparral, and grasslands in southern California, Nevada, and Baja California

Other Names

Common Names: Acton’s Encelia, Acton’s Bush Sunflower, Acton’s Brittlebush

Scientific Names: , Encelia actoni, Encelia frutescens f. actoni, Encelia frutescens var. actoni, Encelia virginensis subsp. actoni, Encelia virginensis var. actoni, Encelia virginiensis subsp. actoni,

GBIF Accepted Name: