Rubber rabbitbrush - Ericameria nauseosa (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Rubber rabbitbrush

Also known as: Chamisa

Rubber rabbitbrush (Ericameria nauseosa) is a member of the aster family and a relative of sagebrush. This shrub grows 61 to 152 cm tall. Each of its numerous flower heads consists of five tiny golden tube-shaped flowers. The stems of this species range from green to white. Native Americans used this plant to make yellow dye.

Scientific classification

Species

Rubber rabbitbrush (Ericameria nauseosa)

Asters bellflowers fanflowers and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Shrub

Plant Type

Summer, Fall

Bloom Time

Winter

Harvest Time

61 cm to 2.5 m

Plant Height

1.2 m to 2 m

Spread

Green, Blue

Leaf Color

2.5 cm

Flower Size

Brown, White

Fruit Color

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring, Summer

Growth Season

Slow

Growth Rate

Images of Rubber rabbitbrush

Attributes of Rubber rabbitbrush

Growth Rate

Rubber rabbitbrush's growth rate is slow, noticeable mainly during spring and summer. This speed underpins a gradual development, with leaf production and budding unfolding in a restrained manner. Given this leisurely growth, height increase is also likely minimal each season, maintaining the plant's compact nature. Interestingly, a slow growth speed often implies a longer lifespan and enhanced resilience, potentially rendering rubber rabbitbrush a hardy selection for landscaping.

Distribution of Rubber rabbitbrush

Distribution Map

The rubber rabbitbrush is native to the western half of the United States and West Virginia, however, it has been introduced to New York. It is not considered invasive and thrives in poor conditions such as beside roadsides and in deserts. The rubber rabbitbrush is of ornamental interest for its flowers and grey foliage in desert landscaping.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Sagebrush, juniper-pinyon and ponderosa-pine zones

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

Rubber rabbitbrush is a popular shrub prized for its bright yellow flowers and grayish-green foliage. It is commonly used as a focal point in landscaping and is an essential plant in wildscape gardens. Plant it with Agastache, Russian safe, winecups, California fuchsia, and purple asters for texture and contrasting color.

Name Story

Rubber rabbitbrush: The name rabbitbrush comes from the appearance of the leaves having tiny white hairs. The rabbitbrush was first tested as a source of quality rubber during World War 2. Therefore, it is called rubber rabbitbrush.

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Care Guide for Rubber rabbitbrush

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

5 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Rubber rabbitbrush thrives in arid regions and exhibits excellent drought tolerance, favoring a balance of weekly watering and dry periods. As a deciduous plant, it enters dormancy in colder months, resulting in significantly reduced water needs.

Fertilize: For rubber rabbitbrush, use a balanced or high-nitrogen fertilizer to boost growth in Spring and Fall. Apply semi-annually, ensuring not to over-fertilize. A slow-release formula is ideal, and always water thoroughly after application to support nutrient uptake and avoid root burn.

Pruning: Rubber rabbitbrush is a hardy shrub with vibrant yellow flowers and silvery-green leaves. Prune in early spring to remove dead branches and encourage growth, ensuring to thin densely packed areas for better air circulation. Pruning aids in preventing legging and promoting a bushier shape.

Propagation: Rubber rabbitbrush propagates effectively in autumn or winter using cutting and layering. It thrives in well-draining soil with moderate moisture, showing successful growth as new shoots appear.

Repotting: Repot rubber rabbitbrush every 2-3 years during dormancy to allow growth. Thriving in spacious containers, rubber rabbitbrush reaches 3-4 feet. After repotting, ensure full sun and well-draining soil. Water regularly but allow soil to dry between waterings, as rubber rabbitbrush is drought-tolerant.

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