Dwarf Rabbit Brush

Rubber rabbitbrush is a branching native shrub with narrow gray-green leaves and masses of golden flowers toward the end of summer. Mature form, foliage, and bloom timing vary among its western North American varieties, so give it room and judge its final size by the local form. ## Garden Use Plant it in a sunny, dry garden or naturalistic slope where its late-season color and open structure can complement grasses and other western natives. The species tolerates a broad range of soils, including sandy, loamy, gravelly, and clay soils. Its mature dimensions vary by ecotype; the existing size range is a useful garden estimate, not a species-wide limit. [Oregon State University](https://landscapeplants.oregonstate.edu/plants/ericameria-nauseosa) describes it as a rounded shrub reaching about 7 feet and notes that foliage and flowering characters vary among forms. ## Growing Conditions Choose full sun and well-drained soil. Once established, its deep taproot helps it manage dry conditions, and it generally needs little supplemental water. Avoid frequent irrigation, which can encourage loose growth. [USDA NRCS](https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/plantmaterials/mtpmcpg9696.pdf) describes the species across dry western habitats and a wide range of soil textures. ## Maintenance Allow the shrub to develop its natural shape. Light annual shearing can keep it compact; remove unwanted seedlings if it spreads beyond the intended area.