Brittlebush
(Encelia farinosa)
Brittlebush (Encelia farinosa)
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Madeleine Claire
CC BY 4.0
Image By:
Madeleine Claire
Recorded By:
Copyright:
CC BY 4.0
Copyright Notice:
Photo by: Madeleine Claire | License Type: CC BY 4.0 | License URL: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ | Rights Holder: Madeleine Claire | Publisher: iNaturalist | Date Created: 2021-01-31T16:53:26Z |
Estimated Native Range
Summary
Encelia farinosa, commonly known as Brittlebush, is a deciduous subshrub or shrub native to arid desert regions and scrublands of the Southwestern USA and northwestern Mexico. It typically grows to a height of 30 to 150 cm (12 to 59 in) and is characterized by its fragrant, fuzzy leaves that help reflect sunlight and conserve water. Brittlebush is well-adapted to its native desert habitat, where it thrives on rocky slopes and in washes where occasional rainfall provides moisture. During dry seasons, Brittlebush becomes drought deciduous, shedding its foliage to minimize water loss, while its thick, resinous stems store water to sustain the plant.
Brittlebush is valued for its bright yellow, daisy-like flowers that bloom in winter and spring, adding a splash of color to the landscape when few other plants are in flower. The flowers are moderately showy and attract pollinators such as bees. In cultivation, Brittlebush is used for border planting, erosion control, ground cover, and massing, particularly in xeriscapes and desert gardens. It is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal water once established and prefers well-draining soils. Full sun is essential for optimal growth and flowering. While generally disease-free, Brittlebush can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. It is not known for aggressive roots or significant pest problems.CC BY-SA 4.0
Brittlebush is valued for its bright yellow, daisy-like flowers that bloom in winter and spring, adding a splash of color to the landscape when few other plants are in flower. The flowers are moderately showy and attract pollinators such as bees. In cultivation, Brittlebush is used for border planting, erosion control, ground cover, and massing, particularly in xeriscapes and desert gardens. It is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal water once established and prefers well-draining soils. Full sun is essential for optimal growth and flowering. While generally disease-free, Brittlebush can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. It is not known for aggressive roots or significant pest problems.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Subshrub, Shrub
- Height: 2-4 feet
- Width: 2-3 feet
- Growth Rate: Moderate
- Flower Color: Yellow
- Flowering Season: Winter, Spring
- Leaf Retention: Deciduous
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Full Sun
- Water: Low
- Drainage: Fast
Common Uses
Bank Stabilization, Bee Garden, Butterfly Garden, Drought Tolerant, Groundcover, Low Maintenance, Potted Plant, Rock Garden, Showy Flowers, Street Planting
Natural Habitat
Native to arid desert regions and scrublands of the Southwestern USA and northwestern Mexico
Other Names
Common Names: White Brittlebush, Incienso, Goldenhills, Brittlebrush
Scientific Names: , Encelia farinosa, Encelia farinosa f. farinosa, Encelia farinosa var. phenicodonta, Encelia farinosa var. radians, Encelia farinosa f. phenicodonta, Encelia radians,
GBIF Accepted Name: Encelia farinosa A.Gray ex Torr.