California Brittle Bush (Encelia californica), also known as Bush Sunflower or Coastal Sunflower, is a fast-growing bushy perennial shrub that thrives on the coast, especially on Southern California slopes and in poor soils.
The Brittle Bush's leaves are gray-green and textured, with a rough diamond shape. Its daisy-like flowers boast bright yellow petals surrounding dark brown centers. Brittle Bush blooms prolificly in spring and winter (it can be less vigorous in the heat of summer and may go dormant during drought periods).
Its flowers are among pollinators' favorites. After blooming, Brittle Bush seeds create food for small birds.
As a fast growing flowering shrub, it is a helpful plant to create quick color and growth in new native gardens while you wait for slower growers to catch up. Brittle Bush also works well as a cut flower.
