Yerba Santa
Eriodictyon californicumfam. Asteroceae
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Pl. 42AC — Eriodictyon californicum
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IOverview
Overview
Yerba Santa (Eriodictyon californicum) is a shrub native to California and Oregon, belonging to the Asteraceae family. Known for its medicinal properties and occasional use in cooking, this plant thrives in full sun and well-drained soil that can be either dry or moist. It grows up to 2.3 meters tall and is commonly found in habitats with a pH between 7 and 8. The leaves are the edible part of the plant, often used for their aromatic qualities. Yerba Santa has been utilized both medicinally and as an ingredient in traditional remedies and dishes. Its distinctive feature includes small, white to pinkish flowers that form dense clusters at the ends of branches, making it a notable ornamental addition to gardens.
Quick answers
What is Yerba Santa?
Yerba Santa (Eriodictyon californicum) is a shrub native to California and Oregon, belonging to the Asteraceae family. Known for its medicinal properties and occasional use in cooking, this plant thrives in full sun and well-drained soil that can be either dry or moist.
IV·bMixology suggestions
1 draft
Mixology suggestions
1 draftEditorial drafts. These pairings are AI-suggested from traditional herbal lore. Always verify with a qualified herbalist before brewing.
Respiratory Relief
respiratorytincture
Traditional use for respiratory issues.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Yerba Santa thrives in full sun and prefers light, sandy soils with a pH of 7-8. It is drought-tolerant but can also handle moist conditions. This shrub grows up to 2.3 meters tall and is hardy in zones 7-10. For propagation, use leaf cuttings or seeds. Harvest the leaves for culinary uses.
Light
Full sun
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy)
Hardiness
7-10
Habit
Shrub
Mature size
2.3 m tall
Soil pH
7–8
For first-time growers
How to grow Yerba Santa for the first time
8steps
Start with Yerba Santa as a simple, low-maintenance shrub for your garden.
- 1
What you'll need
A small Yerba Santa plant or seeds, a trowel, and mulch.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost or fall before the first freeze.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure soil is well-draining with a pH between 7 and 8. Amend sandy soil with compost if needed.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant young plants in early spring, or sow seeds directly where they will grow in late winter.
- 5
First two weeks
Water sparingly to avoid rotting the roots. Keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water only when needed, especially during dry spells. Prune lightly to maintain shape and remove dead branches.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune in late winter before new growth starts to encourage a bushy plant. Harvest leaves for use as needed.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy soil, and not providing enough sunlight are common pitfalls.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Leaves
Edible uses: Condiment, Tea
Other uses:Weaving materialFragrance
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
2 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
2 native · 0 introducedDistribution across0 continents· 2 native
Broader regions
native:California, Oregon
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Asteroceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Asteroceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
Explore further
Companion planting
Compare with similar plants
Growing zone
XII
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