Eriodictyon californicum

Eriodictyon californicum, commonly known as Yerba Santa, is a species of flowering plant in the Boraginaceae family. It is native to the California Floristic Province, where it is found in a variety of habitats, including chaparral and oak woodlands.

Description

Eriodictyon californicum is a shrub reaching up to 2.5 meters in height. The leaves are lanceolate, up to 10 centimeters long, and are covered in a sticky resin. The flowers are white to lavender, and are produced in dense clusters.

Uses

The leaves of Eriodictyon californicum have been used by Native Americans for medicinal purposes. They are often made into a tea, which is used to treat respiratory ailments, including coughs, colds, and asthma. The plant is also used in traditional folk medicine as a remedy for rheumatism and fevers.

Cultivation

Eriodictyon californicum is cultivated as an ornamental plant, for use in native plant and wildlife gardens, and in natural landscaping projects. It is drought-tolerant and prefers full sun.

Conservation

While Eriodictyon californicum is not currently considered threatened, its habitat is being lost to urban sprawl and agriculture. Conservation efforts are focused on preserving its remaining habitat and promoting its use in sustainable landscaping.

References

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