Yerba Santa, Lizard Tail, Sacred Herb

Exploring Yerba Santa, Lizard Tail, Sacred Herb

Scientifically recognized as Eriodictyon californicum and classified under Family: Hydrophyllaceae, stands out as a distinctive Shrub known for its unique characteristics. While it may also be found under other Synonyms, Eriodictyon glutinosum, Eriodictyon trichocalycinum.withNone recognized form. You can use our free plant care app PlantPlants to identify Yerba Santa, Lizard Tail, Sacred Herb.

Appearance and Growth Of Yerba Santa, Lizard Tail, Sacred Herb

At maturity, this species reaches approximately 3 to 4 feet tall, presenting Alternate, thick, lanceolate leaves with a sticky texture along with Bell-shaped, purple to blue flowers arranged in clusters, followed by Small nutlets that are not prominently featured. These features are supported by a reliable Deep, extensive root system, ensuring stability and sustained growth.

Yerba Santa, Lizard Tail, Sacred Herb Origin and Habitat

Native to Native to California, specifically the Sierra Nevada and coastal ranges, Yerba Santa, Lizard Tail, Sacred Herb thrives in Dry, rocky slopes and scrublands at elevations around 1,500 to 5,500 feet. Best suited for USDA Hardiness Zone 8-10. Whether grown indoor, in a curated garden or a more natural setting, its ecological requirements help maintain its vigor over time.

How to take Care of Yerba Santa, Lizard Tail, Sacred Herb

Light, Soil and Watering Yerba Santa, Lizard Tail, Sacred Herb.

You can use our free plant identify app PlantPlants to chose the best spot for Yerba Santa, Lizard Tail, Sacred Herb, This plant prefers Full sun to partial shade and flourishes in Well-drained sandy or gravelly soils with a soil pH of about 6.0 7.5.

Yerba Santa, Lizard Tail, Sacred Herb needs watering,Moderate; drought tolerant once established, guided by PlantPlants app, You can get plants daily watering schedule. to maintain Prefers dry to moderately moist soil, ensure steady hydration. Applying water through Drip irrigation or deep watering supports even distribution and helps prevent overwatering or dryness.

Temperature and Humidity

Yerba Santa, Lizard Tail, Sacred Herb performs best within 50 F to 90 F. Its ideal growth occurs at around 65 F to 75 F, though it tolerates ranges from Min: 30 F, Max: 100 F. Additionally, maintaining Low to moderate humidity encourages healthy foliage and overall plant vigor.

Fertilization & Soil Health

Feeding with Low-nitrogen organic fertilizers at the recommended Seasonal Application Frequency on PlantPlants App keeps nutrients balanced. Incorporating Compost or humus enhances soil structure and fertility, while staying alert to Yellowing leaves, stunted growth helps you adjust care as needed to maintain optimal plant health.

Routine and Maintenance

Regular attention ensures this plant’s beauty and longevity. Late winter to early spring for Light pruning to shape and remove dead or damaged growth tidies its appearance, while Every 2-3 years if in a container may be necessary as it grows, requiring a Increase by 1-2 inches in diameter increase and a fresh Cactus mix or well-draining potting mix. for Staking or Support. Generally doesn t require support.

Seasonal Changes and Propagation of Yerba Santa, Lizard Tail, Sacred Herb

During Winter, growth may slow and some Evergreen; maintains leaves year-round but can show stress in extreme conditions can occur. For those looking to propagate, consider Seed propagation or stem cuttings and provide Moistened soil, fifteen days at temperatures between 70 F to 80 F when starting from seed. If using cuttings, follow Take semi-hardwood cuttings, apply rooting hormone, and place in moist soil until roots form. to ensure successful rooting and healthy new plants.

Pests, Diseases and Prevention

our free plant identify and care app PlantPlants can help you diagnosisYerba Santa, Lizard Tail, Sacred Herb problems.Though generally robust, keep watch for Aphids, whiteflies and remain vigilant against Powdery mildew. Implementing Proper spacing for airflow, avoiding overhead watering and applying Insecticidal soap for pests; fungicides for mildew when issues arise will help sustain the plant thriving.

Companions and Uses of Yerba Santa, Lizard Tail, Sacred Herb

This plant pairs nicely with Lavender, sage, California poppy and shows None significant, making it a flexible choice for various Drought-tolerant gardens, ornamental shrubbery.

Edible and Cultural Aspects

the Edible Parts: Young leaves (in moderation). Toxicty of Yerba Santa, Lizard Tail, Sacred Herb, Generally considered safe, but can cause stomach upset in some individuals. learning about its Spring, pick young leaves, Used in teas, infusions, traditional recipes, and Antioxidants, vitamins can be intriguing for culinary explorers. Some traditions highlight its Used in traditional medicine for respiratory issues and inflammation or note its Important in Native American herbal medicine.

Conservation and Status

With an Not evaluated, proper Habitat protection, sustainable foraging practices

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is Yerba Santa used for?

It is traditionally used for respiratory issues and inflammation.

2. Where does Yerba Santa grow naturally?

It is native to California’s Sierra Nevada and coastal regions.

3. How tall does Yerba Santa grow?

It typically reaches about 3 to 4 feet in height.

4. Is Yerba Santa drought-tolerant?

Yes, it is drought-tolerant once established.

5. When should I prune Yerba Santa?

Prune during late winter to early spring.

6. Can I eat Yerba Santa leaves?

Young leaves can be eaten, but only in moderation, as they can cause stomach upset.

7. What pests affect Yerba Santa?

Common pests include aphids and whiteflies.

8. What kind of soil does Yerba Santa prefer?

It prefers well-drained sandy or gravelly soils.

9. How do I propagate Yerba Santa?

It can be propagated by seeds or stem cuttings.

10. What is the ideal temperature range for growing Yerba Santa?

It grows best at temperatures between 65 F to 75 F.

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