Pacific Yerba Santa

(Eriodictyon traskiae)

Pacific Yerba Santa (Eriodictyon traskiae)

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Climate Requirements

Precipitation 13" - 23"
High Temp. 77°F - 83°F
Low Temp. 37°F - 47°F

Summary

Eriodictyon traskiae, commonly known as Pacific yerba santa or Trask’s yerba santa, is a perennial shrub endemic to the chaparral and coastal sage scrub of California’s central Coast Ranges and Southern California Transverse Ranges. It typically reaches up to 7 feet in height and width, with a rounded form. The leaves are oval, woolly, and aromatic, contributing to its gray-green appearance. From late spring to early summer, it produces dense clusters of tubular flowers that range in color from white to brownish-purple, which are attractive to pollinators such as bees and hummingbirds.

Pacific yerba santa is valued for its drought tolerance and ability to thrive in poor, rocky soils, making it a suitable choice for xeriscaping and native plant gardens. It is also used for erosion control on slopes. In cultivation, it requires minimal water once established, well-drained soil, and full sun to part shade. While it has no major disease problems, it can be susceptible to root rot in poorly drained soils.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Shrub
  • Height: 3-6 feet
  • Width: 3-6 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Purple, White
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

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

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Low Maintenance

Natural Habitat

Endemic to the chaparral and coastal sage scrub of California’s central Coast Ranges and Southern California Transverse Ranges

Other Names

Common Names: Trask’s Yerba Santa, Yerba Santa

Scientific Names: Eriodictyon traskiae, Eriodictyon crassifolium var. traskiae, Eriodictyon tomentosum subsp. smithii, Eriodictyon tomentosum subsp. traskiae, Eriodictyon traskiae var. traskiae

GBIF Accepted Name: Eriodictyon traskiae