Native Habitat:
Dry open forests, forest edges, and rocky slopes in western North America, including the Willamette Valley foothills. Often found in nutrient-poor soils and disturbed sites such as burned areas.
 
Bloom Time:
May – July
 
Growth Habit & Mature Size:
Evergreen shrub, typically 3–6 feet tall and wide, with dense branching and dark green leaves. Produces abundant clusters of white to pale lavender flowers in late spring to early summer.
 
Light & Soil Requirements:
Full sun; well-drained soils, including rocky or sandy substrates. Drought-tolerant once established.
 
Willamette Valley Native Companion Plants:
Arctostaphylos columbiana, Festuca roemeri, Camassia quamash, Achillea millefolium, Eriophyllum lanatum.
 
Urban Garden Function:
Provides dense evergreen structure, floral interest, and erosion control in urban habitat gardens, slopes, and naturalized landscapes. Its prolific spring blooms add seasonal color, while the shrub’s dense form can serve as a windbreak, visual screen, or foundational planting in sustainable urban landscapes. Works well with other native shrubs and perennials in layered plantings.
 
Wildlife Supported:
Flowers attract native bees (Bombus spp., Osmia spp.), butterflies, and other pollinators. Dense branching provides shelter and nesting habitat for small birds and insects.
 
Historical Use:
Used by Indigenous peoples for medicinal purposes and occasionally for basketry or fire-starting.