California brittlebush
Encelia californica
Last reviewed: August 2026
California brittlebush (Encelia californica) is a perennial shrub native to CA. It blooms in February, March, April, May, and June. The flowers draw native bees and butterflies.
Toxicity unknown
California brittlebush (Encelia californica) is not listed by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (opens in new tab) or the other sources we check, so we have no verdict for it either way. Absence from those lists is not a clearance. If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
24"–60" H × 36"–72" W
Bloom
Feb, Mar, Apr, May, Jun
Native to
CA
Pollinators
native bees, butterflies
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A rounded soft-wooded shrub with bright green triangular leaves and yellow daisy flowers with dark centers held on long bare stalks. It blooms through the cool season and goes summer-dormant when dry.
Growing California brittlebush
Grow California brittlebush in full sun and low water. Mature plants reach 24 to 60 inches tall and spread 36 to 72 inches wide.
Wildlife value
Blooms in the cool-season window when little else flowers, feeding native bees and butterflies out of step with summer bloomers.
Common questions
- How much sun does California brittlebush need?
- California brittlebush grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does California brittlebush bloom?
- California brittlebush blooms in February, March, April, May, and June.
- Where is California brittlebush native?
- California brittlebush (Encelia californica) is native to CA, per vouchered herbarium specimen records and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does California brittlebush attract?
- California brittlebush draws native bees and butterflies.
Native range data from vouchered herbarium specimen records and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow California brittlebush? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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