Key Facts
- Native to desert regions of the southwestern United States and northwestern Mexico
- Silvery gray resinous leaves that are hairy to the touch
- Bright yellow daisy like composite flowers produced in late winter and spring
- Very drought tolerant and suited to xeriscape and rock gardens
- Prefers very well drained sandy or rocky soils and alkaline sites
- Attracts native bees and other pollinators
- Forms a low rounded mound often wider than tall
Brittlebush is a low, silvery desert shrub prized in xeriscapes for bright yellow daisy like flowers and extreme drought tolerance. It forms a rounded mound that is often wider than tall and performs best in sunny, well drained plantings.
Identification
Silvery gray resinous leaves are hairy to the touch and give the shrub a pale appearance. Bright yellow daisy like composite flowers appear in late winter and spring, typically March through May in the northern hemisphere. Plants usually reach about 1 to 3 feet tall with a spread commonly 3 to 6 feet.
Best uses and where to grow
Use brittlebush in xeriscape and rock gardens where low water demands and a silvery foliage contrast are desired. It attracts native bees and other pollinators and tolerates alkaline and poor sandy or rocky soils. Plant in full sun for best flowering and avoid poorly drained clay that can cause decline.
Planting and spacing
Transplant container grown plants for the best establishment. Allow 3 to 6 feet between plants to match the typical mature spread and prevent crowding. Good drainage is critical so plant on raised soil or a rockier mix if your site holds water.
Watering and drought tolerance
Brittlebush is very drought tolerant once established and requires minimal supplemental water. Overwatering or poorly drained soil leads to root rot and plant decline. After planting, provide regular water until roots take hold then reduce frequency to encourage drought resilience.
After flowering and maintenance
Remove spent flowers to keep the planting tidy and check for winter dieback in colder sites since plants may suffer damage at the lower end of their hardiness range. In warm regions plants remain evergreen and can put on more growth with occasional summer rains.
Containers and propagation
Container grown brittlebush transplants establish readily in suitable sites and make attractive pots when kept small. Propagation is by seed and by semi woody stem cuttings. Success rates vary by season and technique so try small trials or follow local extension recommendations for best results.
Spread and naturalizing control
The shrub forms a low rounded mound that can be wider than tall and may expand over several years to fill an area. Control spread by spacing, occasional trimming or removing seedlings if you want to limit naturalizing in a garden bed.
Frequently asked questions
- How fast does Brittlebush grow?
- Growth is modest to moderate with plants typically reaching 1 to 3 feet tall and spreading 3 to 6 feet over a few years, often faster in warm, well drained sites.
- When does Brittlebush bloom?
- Blooming generally occurs in late winter to spring, commonly March through May, and plants may rebloom after significant summer rains.
- Is Brittlebush toxic to pets?
- It is not widely listed as a toxic plant for pets. Resinous foliage can be sticky and may irritate skin in sensitive individuals.
- How should I water Brittlebush?
- Water regularly while plants establish then reduce irrigation. Poor drainage or excess moisture tends to cause root rot and decline.
- Can I propagate Brittlebush from cuttings?
- Yes. Propagation by semi woody cuttings and by seed is used. Container grown transplants also establish readily when planted into appropriate conditions.
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