SafePlants

Narrowleaf Yerba Santa (Eriodictyon angustifolium)

Eriodictyon angustifolium, commonly known as narrowleaf yerba santa, is a perennial shrub native to western North America. The name "yerba santa" originates from Spanish, meaning "holy weed" or "holy herb."

Considerations for Pets

• The plant is a shrub, potentially accessible to pets depending on its location and growth habit.
• The leaves are described as sticky, which could be a consideration if pets come into contact with the plant.

Considerations for Children

• The plant is a shrub, potentially accessible to children depending on its location and growth habit.
• The leaves are described as sticky, which could be a consideration if children come into contact with the plant.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Eriodictyon angustifolium Nutt.
• Family: Boraginaceae (Borage Family) / Hydrophyllaceae (Waterleaf Family)
• Synonym: Eriodictyon angustifolium var. amplifolium Brand.

Distribution and Habitat

• Primarily found in western North America, including California, Utah, Nevada, and Baja California.
• Native to the western interior U.S. and Mexico, occurring at elevations from 2,000 to 11,500 feet.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Perennial shrub.
• Stems are erect, typically less than 2 meters in height.
• Twigs are glabrous (smooth) or sparsely hairy and sticky.
• Bark is shredding.
• Leaves are simple, cauline (borne on the stem), and alternate.
• Leaves are leathery, measuring 2-10 cm in length and 2-11 mm in width.
• Requires little maintenance and low water.
• Evergreen with blooms.
• Can reach 15 cm high.

Quirky Facts

• The common name "yerba santa" translates to "holy weed" or "holy herb" in Spanish.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Mentioned in association with other plants such as Arizona cypress, live-forever, and cliff fendlerbush.
• Observed to sprout vigorously after fires, alongside live oak and skunkbush sumac.

Further Information

• Discover Life provides a page about the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of Eriodictyon angustifolium.
• CalPhotos provides images of Eriodictyon angustifolium by James M. Andre.