Chamisa
Ericameria nauseosa
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
24"–60" H × 24"–48" W
Bloom
Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
AZ, CA, CO, ID and 14 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies, moths
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Rabbitbrush is a drought-tolerant native shrub with silvery-green foliage and masses of bright yellow flowers in late summer and fall. This hardy plant thrives in poor soils and requires minimal water once established. Its evergreen leaves provide year-round structure in the landscape.
In an HOA neighborhood
Chamisa 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.
- Can appear weedy or unkempt to traditional landscaping preferences
- May be perceived as too wild or unmanicured for formal front yards
- Flowers fade to brown seed heads that some find unsightly
Wildlife value
The abundant yellow flowers are a crucial late-season nectar source for bees, butterflies, and moths when few other plants are blooming. This plant is especially valuable for supporting pollinators during fall migration periods.
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 Chamisa fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.