California Yerba Santa
Eriodictyon californicum
Last reviewed: June 2026
Eriodictyon californicum is a drought-tolerant evergreen shrub native to California that blooms white to pale lavender flowers from April through June. This hardy plant attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds while requiring minimal water.
California Yerba Santa (Eriodictyon californicum) is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs or cats (aspca.org (opens in new tab), last reviewed 2026-05-21). If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag California Yerba Santa as toxic to livestock.
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
24"–60" H × 24"–48" W
Bloom
Apr, May, Jun
Native to
CA
Pollinators
bees, butterflies, hummingbirds
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Yerba Santa is a native shrub with lance-shaped, sticky leaves and clusters of lavender-white tubular flowers. It grows well in dry, sunny locations and requires little irrigation once established, making it excellent for drought-tolerant gardens.
Growing California Yerba Santa
Grow California Yerba Santa in full sun and low water. Mature plants reach 24 to 60 inches tall and spread 24 to 48 inches wide. Expect moderate maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
California Yerba Santa is an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement. Maintenance level: moderate. Tidiness: 2 out of 5.
Works well in: mid zone, backyard only.
- Sticky leaves can collect dust and look untidy
- Can appear somewhat rangy or wild in its growth habit
- May be perceived as too 'natural' for formal landscape designs
Wildlife value
The tubular flowers attract numerous pollinators including native bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. Its extended blooming period provides food for pollinators through late spring into early summer.
Common questions
- When does California Yerba Santa bloom?
- Eriodictyon californicum typically blooms from April through June, producing clusters of white to pale lavender tubular flowers.
- What pollinators visit California Yerba Santa?
- This native shrub attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds with its nectar-rich flowers. The tubular shape is particularly well-suited for hummingbird feeding.
- Where is Eriodictyon californicum native?
- California Yerba Santa is native to California, where it grows naturally in chaparral, coastal sage scrub, and oak woodland habitats throughout much of the state.
- How much water does California Yerba Santa need?
- This drought-tolerant native requires very little water once established, making it excellent for water-wise landscaping and natural gardens in Mediterranean climates.
- Is California Yerba Santa toxic to dogs?
- California Yerba Santa is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs (aspca.org).
- Is California Yerba Santa toxic to cats?
- California Yerba Santa is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for cats (aspca.org).
- Is California Yerba Santa toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag California Yerba Santa as toxic to livestock.
- Is California Yerba Santa HOA-friendly?
- California Yerba Santa is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with moderate maintenance.
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.
Ready to grow California Yerba Santa? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz