Golden Eardrops

Ehrendorferia chrysantha

perennial herbView on Calscape

Care

Sun

full sun

Size

2–5ft tall

Container

Friendly

Flowers

Prized

Native Range

Northern California coast and inner Coast Ranges from Humboldt County south to Santa Cruz County, typically below 3000 ft elevation in shaded woodland.

Care Guide

Planting

Plant Golden Eardrops in full sun where it will get direct light all day. This California native thrives in dry, brushy conditions, so choose a spot with excellent drainage - it won't tolerate soggy soil. Space plants about 2 to 3 feet apart, as they can reach 5 feet tall and develop a bushy form. Plant in fall or early spring to give the plant time to establish its deep taproot before the heat of summer.

After Planting

Golden Eardrops is adapted to California's dry climate and chaparral conditions, so it prefers minimal supplemental water once established - water deeply but infrequently rather than creating consistently moist soil. The biggest mistake is overwatering; treat this plant like the drought-tolerant native it is. Beyond establishing good drainage at planting time, little maintenance is needed. Expect the plant to develop tall stems with aromatic yellow flowers atop each branch.

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Endangered & Threatened Species Supported

Crotch's bumblebeeBombus crotchii

Listed under California ESA; range has contracted significantly

CA: Endangered

Wildlife Supported