Description

This is one of the many plant species that was nearly extirpated by the introduction of goats and other herbivores to the islands dotting the Pacific coast. Guadalupe Island is part of the Mexican state of Baja California. It is considered by some to be the southern limit of the California Floristic Province, i.e. that portion of western North America that enjoys a Mediterranean climate. Two shield volcanoes formed the island, one of which rises to over 4,000 feet above the Pacific. The Guadalupe rock daisy survived the goat onslaught on the sides of inaccessible cliffs. Since the goats were largely removed in 2005, it has begun to re-colonize other parts of the island, but is always found in dry rocky habitats. The plant grows neatly to about three feet in height. The leaves are deeply dissected and nearly white. The umbells of yellow flowers appear in late spring and summer. The yellow is quite striking against the silvery foliage. Provide this sunflower with well-draining soil and at least six hours of morning sun. Water sparingly once established. A frequent light foliar watering might be helpful, especially since Guadalupe Island can be quite foggy at times. This plant appears hardy to at least 30F. I would guess that brief excursions to 25F would be well tolerated. Guadalupe Island rock daisy makes an excellent subject for a large pot.