Rabbitbrush

Ericameria nauseosa

Cultivars: 'Grey Leaf', 'Baby Blue'

Rabbitbush is a hardy native shrub known for its silvery foliage and bright yellow late-summer flowers that add color when many plants are fading. It has a loose, upright habit and works well in xeric landscapes, native plantings, and roadside or large-scale plantings where durability and low water use are priorities. In bloom it attracts pollinators and provides strong seasonal interest. The fine-textured foliage and open structure allow it to blend well with grasses and other drought-tolerant plants.

Plant Characteristics
Genus
Ericameria
Species
Ericameria nauseosa
Cultivar
‘Grey Leaf’, ‘Baby Blue’
Family
Asteraceae
Plant Color
Gray-green, gray-blue
Flower Color
Yellow
Bloom Time
Height
1-6'
Width
1-6'
Water Use
Low
Care Instructions

Rabbitbush performs best in full sun and well-drained soils. It has very low water needs once established and tolerates drought and poor soils well. Water regularly the first season to establish roots, then reduce irrigation. Pruning can be done lightly in early spring to shape or control size, but it is generally low maintenance. Fall dieback cutback is not required, as stems help protect the plant over winter. Winter protection is not necessary in Rocky Mountain landscapes, and the plant performs best when left largely undisturbed.