Telegraph weed
Heterotheca grandiflora
Care
full sun
very low
Fast, Medium, Slow; Not particular as to soil.
2–4ft tall , 2–2ft wide
Jan-Dec
Deciduous
Resistant
Friendly
Prized
Coastal bluffs and scrub from Santa Cruz County to Monterey County, below 1000 ft elevation.
Care Guide
Planting
Plant Telegraph Weed in full sun - it needs direct light to thrive. This plant isn't fussy about soil type and will grow in fast, medium, or slow-draining soils, so amend only if drainage is obviously poor. Space plants 2–4 feet apart to accommodate their mature height of 2–4 feet and bushy, bristly growth habit.
After Planting
Once established, Telegraph Weed needs virtually no supplemental water - never irrigate during summer in the Bay Area, as it's adapted to very low water conditions. Year one will involve getting roots established, but after that the plant is self-sufficient; the main mistake is overwatering, which these desert-adapted plants absolutely don't need. The plant is deciduous and will bloom from winter through spring, then die back naturally, so don't be alarmed by dormancy.
Endangered & Threatened Species Supported
California endemic, limited range
Western Pygmy Blue butterfly; California species of special concern
Wildlife Supported
Insects
Larval host plant; multiple generations spring through fall
Primary larval host plant; caterpillars feed on foliage in spring
Important pollen and nectar source during bloom period
Primary larval host; caterpillars feed on plant foliage
Early season pollen source during plant bloom
Feeds on plant sap; presence supports natural enemies
Pollen foraging during blooming period
Pollen foraging during blooming period
+6 more species