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

California Bush Sunflower

Encelia californica
In the United States: Native · also called california brittlebush, california bush sunflower, coast sunflower

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
Bloom (US) February–July
Hardiness zones8-11
Duration~2 months
TypePerennial
Sunfull

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