Beach-heath
Hudsonia tomentosa
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
3"–12" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
May, Jun
Native to
CT, DE, IA, IL and 18 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Beach-heath is a low-growing evergreen shrub that forms dense, cushiony mats of small gray-green leaves. In late spring it produces masses of small bright yellow flowers that create a cheerful carpet of color. This drought-tolerant plant thrives in sandy soils and full sun conditions.
In an HOA neighborhood
Beach-heath takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Very low growth creates informal groundcover appearance
- Gray-green foliage may appear sparse or wild to traditional landscaping expectations
- Specialized coastal plant may look out of place in typical suburban settings
Wildlife value
The abundant spring flowers attract native bees and beetles during the May-June bloom period. The dense mat structure can provide shelter for small ground-dwelling beneficial insects.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Does Beach-heath fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.