Description

The common gum plant has much to recommend it. The shiny, resinous leaves grow in an open mounding form. Abundant flower buds (topped with a sticky pad for which the plant is named) open into quite a display of bright yellow. When in bloom, Grindelia camporum is visited by quite a collection of pollinators. It is adaptable to various soils and watering regimens. With occasional water, it remains green through the summer. Plant in full sun. Prune aggressively in the fall to maintain a better appearance. I planted Grindelia camporum in a parking strip in San Jose and it looked great all summer.