Eriophyllum confertiflorum is a California native perennial subshrub found in chaparral, coastal sage scrub, oak woodland, and other dry plant communities throughout much of California and northern Baja California. Commonly known as Golden Yarrow, it is valued for its extended bloom period, drought tolerance, and importance to pollinators. Plants form dense mounds of finely divided, gray-green to silvery foliage, typically reaching 1–2 feet tall and wide. Numerous bright yellow flower heads are borne in flat-topped clusters above the foliage from late winter or spring into summer, depending on climate and location. Deadheading can extend the flowering period and improve appearance.
Performs best in full sun and well-drained soils. Adapted to low-water landscapes and requires little to no supplemental irrigation once established. Best performance is achieved in soils with good drainage. Plants may be short-lived or decline in heavy, poorly drained soils, particularly when combined with summer irrigation.
Performs well on slopes and other dry sites where drainage is adequate. Most commonly used in habitat restoration, ecological restoration, mitigation, and native revegetation projects where its adaptability, pollinator value, and ability to establish in challenging conditions are particularly useful. While suitable for native plant gardens and informal landscape settings, its use in formal ornamental landscapes is relatively limited due to its naturalistic growth habit and seasonal appearance.
Useful in native plant gardens, pollinator gardens, coastal sage scrub plantings, chaparral plantings, habitat restoration projects, dry borders, meadow plantings, and other low-water landscapes.
Pests and Cultural Considerations: Generally low maintenance and free of significant pest or disease problems when grown in well-drained soils. Excessive irrigation, particularly during summer, and poorly drained soils can reduce longevity and increase susceptibility to root diseases. Plants may become woody and open with age and benefit from periodic cutting back after flowering to maintain a compact habit. Highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. Deer resistance is generally good under most landscape conditions.
- Common Name:
- Golden Yarrow
- Mature Height:
- 1-2'
- Mature Spread:
- 1-3'
- Exposure:
- Sun
- Growth:
- Evergreen
- Flower Color:
- Yellow
