SafePlants

Yellow Rabbitbrush (Chrysothamnus viscidiflorus)

Chrysothamnus viscidiflorus, commonly known as yellow rabbitbrush or green rabbitbrush, is a shrub species belonging to the daisy family (Asteraceae).

Considerations for Pets

• The foliage and flowers are described as sticky to the touch. This stickiness might be a concern for pets that may ingest or come into contact with the plant, potentially causing discomfort or difficulty in grooming.

Considerations for Children

• The foliage and flowers are described as sticky to the touch. This stickiness might be a concern for children that may ingest or come into contact with the plant.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Chrysothamnus viscidiflorus (Hook.) Nutt.
• Family: Asteraceae (also known as Compositae)
• Synonyms: Bigelovia douglasii, Ericameria viscidiflora
• Subordinate Taxa: Chrysothamnus viscidiflorus variety viscidiflorus (Sticky Rabbitbrush)

Common Names

• Yellow Rabbitbrush
• Green Rabbitbrush
• Sticky-flowered Rabbitbrush
• Sticky-leaf Rabbitbrush
• Douglas Rabbitbrush
• Low Rabbitbrush
• Green Rabbit-brush

Distribution and Habitat

Chrysothamnus viscidiflorus is native to North America, particularly east of the Cascade Mountains of Oregon and Washington. It is also found in Arizona's montane flora. It thrives in xeric landscapes.

Morphological Characteristics

• Erect shrub, branching from near the base.
• Can grow to be a globe-shaped shrub two to six feet wide and two to six feet tall.
• Small, silvery leaves.
• Abundance of tiny flowers clustered into a golden-yellow glow in the summer to fall.
• Small yellow conical flowers borne in rounded clusters.
• Foliage and flowers are sticky to the touch.

Ecological Role

• Provides cover and nesting habitat for sage-grouse.
• Browsed by large game.
• Flowers attract pollinators such as honey bees and butterflies (e.g., Coronis Fritillary).

Quirky Facts

• American Indians used this plant to make chewing gum, tea, cough syrup, and yellow dye.
• Yellow twig rabbitbrush provides fall and winter interest in xeric landscapes.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• The plant is a food source and habitat for various insects, including a beetle species identified at BugGuide.
• Honey bees forage pollen from rabbitbrush.
• Butterflies use it for nectaring.