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Yerba Santa
Eriodictyon californicum
In the United States:
Native
· also called California yerba santa, mountain balm, holy herb
Honeybees forage on Yerba Santa for its high nectar yield, producing a spicy amber honey during the late spring bloom period when flowers open in clusters above the evergreen foliage. It offers moderate pollen as well, supporting brood rearing. This drought-tolerant shrub prefers well-drained soils and full sun, forming colonies via rhizomes, and may require pruning to maintain shape in garden settings.
| Nectar | high |
|---|---|
| Pollen | medium |
| Bloom (US) | March–May |
| Duration | ~2 months |
| Type | Perennial |
| Sun | full |