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California Bush Sunflower
California Bush Sunflower botanical plate
Field guide plate · click to zoom

California Bush Sunflower

Encelia californica

Honeybees forage on Encelia californica for nectar and pollen during its late winter to spring bloom, providing an early-season resource in coastal habitats. Peak bloom occurs from February to April, supporting colonies building up after winter. This drought-tolerant shrub requires no supplemental water once established and attracts a variety of pollinators without becoming invasive.

Nectarmedium
Pollenmedium
BloomFebruary–May
Zones8-11
TypePerennial
Sunfull
NativeSouthern California and Baja California
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