Green Rabbitbrush / Goldenbush
Chrysothamnus viscidiflorus
Also listed as Aster viscidiflorus, Bigelowia viscidiflora
Also known as Green Rabbitbrush, Sticky-leaf Rabbitbrush, Douglas' Rabbitbrush
Climate Match for your location
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A drought-tolerant desert shrub with small, sticky leaves and bright yellow flowers that bloom in late summer and fall. Excellent for xeriscape gardens and western landscapes with minimal water needs.
Why grow it
Chrysothamnus viscidiflorus offers reliable late-season color in arid and semi-arid regions where many shrubs struggle. Compared to other native desert shrubs, it requires minimal establishment water once established and tolerates poor, well-draining soils that limit options for other species. Its dense growth habit and extended bloom period make it useful for fall pollinator support in western landscapes.
Watch out for
This species can become leggy or sparse in overly rich soil or with excessive water; restraint with irrigation typically produces denser growth. In areas with high humidity or poor air circulation, fungal issues may develop, so site selection with good drainage and airflow improves performance.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Asteraceae
Native to the United States
Native Range
Western United States
Native to: Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Nebraska, New Mexico, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, Washington, Wyoming
Seasonality
Bloom Season
Season of Interest
Shrub
Woody multi-stem plants at eye level.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Flood Tolerance
Deer Resistance
Inferred from USDA browse palatability
pH Range
Soil Texture
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
A drought-tolerant desert shrub with small, sticky leaves and bright yellow flowers that bloom in late summer and fall. Excellent for xeriscape gardens and western landscapes with minimal water needs.
Climate Match for your location
See how well Green Rabbitbrush / Goldenbush grows in your area.
Enter your ZIP code and we'll show you how this plant fits your local climate.
Why grow it
Chrysothamnus viscidiflorus offers reliable late-season color in arid and semi-arid regions where many shrubs struggle. Compared to other native desert shrubs, it requires minimal establishment water once established and tolerates poor, well-draining soils that limit options for other species. Its dense growth habit and extended bloom period make it useful for fall pollinator support in western landscapes.
Watch out for
This species can become leggy or sparse in overly rich soil or with excessive water; restraint with irrigation typically produces denser growth. In areas with high humidity or poor air circulation, fungal issues may develop, so site selection with good drainage and airflow improves performance.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Asteraceae
Native to the United States
Native Range
Western United States
Native to: Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Nebraska, New Mexico, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, Washington, Wyoming
Seasonality
Bloom Season
Season of Interest
Shrub
Woody multi-stem plants at eye level.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Flood Tolerance
Deer Resistance
Inferred from USDA browse palatability
pH Range
Soil Texture
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
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