Turpentine bush
Ericameria laricifolia
Last reviewed: August 2026
Turpentine bush (Ericameria laricifolia) is a perennial shrub native to AZ, CA, NM, NV and 2 more states. It blooms in September, October, and November. The flowers draw bees and butterflies. It reads as an intentional, HOA-friendly planting in the right spot.
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
12"–36" H × 18"–36" W
Bloom
Sep, Oct, Nov
Native to
AZ, CA, NM, NV and 2 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Before you buy
Your city may pay you to plant this
Cities and water utilities offer rebates for replacing lawn with native and water-wise plants. We track 432 programs across 44 states, each with a link to the provider and the date we last checked it.
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A small, dense, rounded evergreen shrub with narrow, resinous, needle-like leaves. In fall it produces abundant small yellow daisy-like flower heads that cover the plant, followed by fluffy seed heads. Foliage has a strong resinous scent when crushed. Thrives in rocky, well-drained soil and full sun with minimal supplemental water once established.
Growing Turpentine bush
Grow Turpentine bush in full sun and low water. Mature plants reach 12 to 36 inches tall and spread 18 to 36 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Turpentine bush is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.
- foliage has a strong resinous scent when crushed or bruised
Wildlife value
Fall flowers provide a late-season nectar source for bees and butterflies when few other plants are blooming.
Common questions
- How much sun does Turpentine bush need?
- Turpentine bush grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Turpentine bush bloom?
- Turpentine bush blooms in September, October, and November.
- Where is Turpentine bush native?
- Turpentine bush (Ericameria laricifolia) is native to AZ, CA, NM, NV and 2 more states, per the World Checklist of Vascular Plants (Kew).
- What pollinators does Turpentine bush attract?
- Turpentine bush draws bees and butterflies.
- Is Turpentine bush HOA-friendly?
- Turpentine bush is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.
Native range data from the World Checklist of Vascular Plants (Kew). Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Turpentine bush? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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