Description

This showy, fragrant shrub is common in coastal and interior-coastal mountains from Monterey County south into Baja California. It grows in an open, fountain form with dark evergreen needle-like leaves that seem to combine the aromas of pine and sage. In mid-spring these are covered with a dense “wool” of ornate purple flowers that persist for months. Transitioning woolly blue curls to the landscape can be challenging. Fall planting is helpful. Sandy well-draining soil is preferred. The protection of a few hours of shade seems beneficial. Summer water should be applied sparingly if at all (I naturalize the plants in my landscape). Once established, woolly blue curls are hardy and long-lived, though they do become “leggy” with age. The year-round attractiveness of woolly blue curls certainly justifies the effort.