Hairy gumplant
Grindelia hirsutula
Care
full sun
very low
Fast, Medium, Slow
1–2ft tall
Jun-Nov
Resistant
Friendly
Prized
Coastal bluffs and scrub from Santa Cruz County to San Luis Obispo County, below 1500 ft elevation.
Care Guide
Planting
Plant your hairy gumplant in full sun with fast-draining soil - it's extremely drought-tolerant once established and won't tolerate wet feet. This Bay Area native thrives in poor, well-drained conditions and can handle fast, medium, or slow draining soils as long as drainage is good. Space plants 1–2 feet apart, and you can plant year-round in the Bay Area, though fall and early spring give the best establishment window.
After Planting
Water weekly during your plant's first summer to establish deep roots, then dramatically reduce watering - this plant needs very low water once established and is even tolerant of recycled water. Expect red or purplish-brown stems and golden yellow flowers from June through November. The biggest mistake Bay Area gardeners make is overwatering; treat this as a drought plant from year two onward and only water during extended dry spells.
Endangered & Threatened Species Supported
California Species of Special Concern; monarch populations declining
Wildlife Supported
Insects
Critical fall migration fuel source during southbound migration (Aug-Oct)
Confirmed host plant for caterpillar development; multiple generations
Specialist herbivore; may use plant year-round in mild climates
Year-round bloomer attraction; key resource during population irruptions
Resident and migratory populations; consistent nectar source
Peak use during mid-summer flight period
Caterpillar feeds on reproductive structures
Forms galls on stem and flower tissues; multi-generational
+1 more species