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Linear Goldenbush

Ericameria linearifolia

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1 gallon

Linear Goldenbush

Out of stock

3'x5'

Sizes:

Linear Goldenbush – Ericameria linearifolia
Also known as: Interior Goldenbush, Narrowleaf Goldenbush

Ericameria linearifolia is a flowering sub-shrub in the sunflower family, known for its bushy form and vibrant yellow, daisy-like flowers that bloom on tall stems in late summer to early fall, with a possible second flush in late winter to early spring. Among the most striking species of Ericameria, it is prized for its seasonal color and fine-textured, resinous, aromatic foliage.

This adaptable perennial is native to arid regions of California—from the Central Valley southward—as well as parts of Nevada, Utah, and Arizona. It is commonly found in coarse sandy or gravelly soils on rocky dry slopes and in desert flats, at elevations up to 6,000 feet. It thrives in full sun and is especially well-suited to naturalistic and low-maintenance desert landscapes, including chaparral, creosote bush scrub, and pinyon-juniper woodland communities.

Narrowleaf Goldenbush supports a diverse range of wildlife. Its abundant nectar attracts pollinators such as native bees and butterflies, while its seeds and structure provide resources and shelter for other animals. It contributes significantly to the health of arid ecosystems.

Wildlife Value
Host Plant: —
Nectar Source: Indra Swallowtail (Papilio indra); Western Pygmy-Blue (Brephidium exilis); Henne's Variable Checkerspot (Euphydryas chalcedona hennei); Behr's Metalmark (Apodemia virgulti); Mournful Duskywing (Erynnis tristis); Common Sootywing (Pholisora catullus); Monarch (Danaus plexippus)
Bird Resources: Seeds; Insects
Bird Species: House Finch (Haemorhous mexicanus); Lesser Goldfinch (Spinus psaltria)
Bees: Attracts a wide range of native bees including sweat bees (Halictidae), long-horned bees (Melissodes spp.), and leafcutter bees (Megachilidae)

Plant Care

Native region:

Local Native; Mojave Desert

Water needs:

Low

Exposure:

Full Sun

Mature size:

3'x5'

Growth rate:

Moderate

Flower color:

Yellow

Flower season:

Fall; Spring

Pruning:

None

Cold Hardiness:

10 Degrees

Nectar-producing:

Yes

Attracts pollinators:

Yes

Nighttime pollinators:

Butterflies or Moths:

Yes

Monarchs:

Yes

Larval host:

Yes

Bees:

Yes

Bats:

Birds:

Yes

Nest site:

Nest materials:

Rabbit-resistant:

Yes

Tortoises:

Growing Plants in the Desert — Important Information

The information presented here is, to the best of my knowledge, accurate and based on reliable research, personal experience in my own garden, observations from other gardens I’ve visited, and time spent studying plants in their native habitats. I always welcome your feedback and experiences to help me continue educating others!

Cacti:
In my experience, cacti are much happier in filtered shade here in the low desert of the Coachella Valley. Their colors are more vibrant and they tend to bloom more profusely, especially the non-native varieties. If you look closely at how our native barrel cactus and beavertail prickly pear grow in the wild, you’ll often find them tucked among rocks or beneath the shelter of creosote and other shrubs.

⚠️ A note of caution: Cacti and succulents are often illegally collected from the wild, which not only damages plant populations but also disturbs entire ecosystems. In some cases, wild populations of cacti have even gone extinct because of this practice. When purchasing these plants, always be sure they’ve been legally obtained. Look for nursery-grown stock or plants with a native plant certification, and keep that documentation for your records.

Light Requirements:
In our desert (Sonoran/Colorado), “full sun” doesn’t always mean what you might think. Many so-called full-sun plants benefit from and actually appreciate some late-afternoon filtered light—especially during the intense summer months.