Carey’s Balsamroot

(Balsamorhiza careyana)

Carey’s Balsamroot (Balsamorhiza careyana)

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Climate Requirements

Precipitation 7" - 30"
High Temp. 81°F - 90°F
Low Temp. 22°F - 28°F

Summary

Balsamorhiza careyana, commonly known as Carey’s Balsamroot, is a perennial herb native to the dry grasslands and open forests in the Pacific Northwest, specifically Washington and Oregon, often found east of the Cascades. It typically grows to a height of 12 to 30 inches (30 to 76 cm). Carey’s Balsamroot is characterized by its rough, hairy leaves that resemble sandpaper and its bright yellow, daisy-like flowers that bloom in the spring and early summer. The flowers are quite showy and attract a variety of pollinators.

Carey’s Balsamroot is valued for its drought tolerance and ability to thrive in poor soil conditions, making it a suitable choice for xeriscaping and naturalistic plantings. It is also used in restoration projects to stabilize soils and support native ecosystems. In cultivation, it requires minimal maintenance once established. This plant prefers full sun and well-drained soils, and it is adapted to survive with low water once established. There are no widely known cultivars of this species, and it is not typically associated with significant disease or pest problems. However, it is important to avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 1-3 feet
  • Width: 1-2 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Yellow
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

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

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Low Maintenance

Natural Habitat

Dry grasslands and open forests east of the Cascades

Other Names

Common Names: Intermediate Balsamroot, Carey Balsamroot

Scientific Names: Balsamorhiza careyana, Balsamorhiza careyana var. careyana, Balsamorhiza careyana var. intermedia

GBIF Accepted Name: Balsamorhiza careyana