Low Rubber Rabbitbrush

Chrysothamnus viscidiflorus

Asteraceae

• Spokane Native
• USDA Zone 4-8
• Sun-Part Shade
• Size: 3’ wide x 3' tall
• Drought Tolerant: Yes
• Evergreen: Semi
• Flowers Color: Golden Yellow (July-September)
• Wildlife Value: Late-season flowers critical for bees and butterflies; seeds with fluffy bristles eaten by birds; provides cover for small mammals and ground-nesting birds

Green Rabbitbrush is a compact native shrub growing 3 feet tall and wide with a dense, rounded form and multiple stems arising from the base. It thrives in full sun and is exceptionally drought-tolerant, making it ideal for xeric landscapes and challenging dry sites. This vigorous species grows naturally on dry slopes, sagebrush steppes, and disturbed areas throughout the intermountain West. It tolerates poor, rocky soils and requires minimal care once established.

The narrow, thread-like green leaves are resinous and aromatic, remaining on the plant much of the year, giving it a semi-evergreen character. The foliage has a distinctive pleasant fragrance and slightly sticky texture. From July through September, when many plants have finished blooming, Green Rabbitbrush becomes absolutely covered in clusters of brilliant golden-yellow flowers at the branch tips, creating a spectacular late-summer display. The tubular flowers are arranged in small heads that cluster together. After flowering, fluffy white seed heads develop, adding interest and providing food for birds.

Green Rabbitbrush is invaluable for late-season pollinators when nectar sources become scarce. The abundant golden flowers attract numerous species of native bees, honeybees, and butterflies, providing critical late-summer and fall forage. Birds, especially finches, feed on the seeds. Small mammals and ground-nesting birds use the shrub for cover. Indigenous peoples and early settlers utilized rabbitbrush extensively—the flowers and stems produced yellow dye, the wood served as fuel and building material, and the plant had various medicinal uses. The latex from stems was used to make chewing gum.

Perfect for pollinator gardens, xeric landscapes, native plant gardens, and naturalized areas. The brilliant late-season bloom provides essential color when summer flowers fade. Excellent for erosion control on dry slopes and disturbed sites. Works beautifully with big sagebrush, Gray Rubber Rabbitbrush (Ericameria nauseosa), native grasses, and desert wildflowers. The compact size makes it suitable for smaller gardens and mass plantings. Low-maintenance and deer-resistant, Green Rabbitbrush is an essential component of authentic high desert landscapes in the Spokane region.