Native Habitat:
Dry open forests, rocky slopes, and forest edges in western North America, including the Willamette Valley foothills. Often found on nutrient-poor, well-drained soils.
 
Bloom Time:
April – June
 
Growth Habit & Mature Size:
Evergreen shrub, low-growing and mat-forming, typically 6–18 inches tall and spreading several feet wide. Produces clusters of small blue to lavender flowers in spring.
 
Light & Soil Requirements:
Full sun; well-drained soils, including rocky or sandy substrates. Highly drought-tolerant once established.
 
Willamette Valley Native Companion Plants:
Arctostaphylos columbiana, Festuca roemeri, Eriophyllum lanatum, Camassia quamash, Achillea millefolium.
 
Urban Garden Function:
Provides low-maintenance groundcover with spring floral interest and evergreen foliage. Ideal for rock gardens, slopes, urban meadow edges, and habitat gardens. Its spreading habit stabilizes soil and creates visual continuity while adding texture and seasonal color to sustainable landscapes.
 
Wildlife Supported:
Flowers attract native bees (Bombus spp., Osmia spp.) and syrphid flies. Dense evergreen mats provide shelter and nesting habitat for small insects and ground-dwelling wildlife.
 
Historical Use:
Used by Indigenous peoples for medicinal purposes and occasionally for basketry or fire-starting.