California Yerba Santa
Eriodictyon californicum
Last reviewed: June 2026
California Yerba Santa (Eriodictyon californicum) is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs or cats (aspca.org, last reviewed 2026-05-21). 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 × 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.
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.
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 California Yerba Santa fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.