Description

This little shrub is common in wet areas in many parts of California as far north as Glenn County. It grows as a rounded, open shrub to only about a foot or so. The leaves are dark and needle-like, similar to rosemary in appearance. The small flowers appear from late spring to early fall and range in color from white to pink. The flowers contrast nicely with the dark green foliage. Over time, alkali heath will spread via rhizomes to form a patch. This is a good plant to try near a natural water source or in a portion of the garden with regular moisture. It might form the foreground of a garden bed to frame more showy, moisture-loving plants. Alkali heath is accepting of a variety of soil types but needs a sunny site.