Rubber Rabbitbrush

Rubber Rabbitbrush (Ericameria nauseosa) is more than just a tough, late-blooming shrub—it’s a cornerstone species in the Great Basin, where it plays a critical role in stabilizing soil, supporting wildlife, and thriving in the most difficult conditions. In home landscapes, that same resilience makes it a reliable choice for tough spots: rocky slopes, hot southern exposures, and areas with poor or alkaline soil.

Its golden flowers provide a burst of color when most other plants have finished blooming, and it’s a magnet for native bees and butterflies in fall. Though not traditionally ornamental, its silvery-green foliage, fine texture, and upright form offer year-round structure—especially striking when planted in groups or paired with grasses and low-growing perennials.