Description

The dune tansy is a member of coastal dune plant communities from Santa Cruz County into Oregon. It becomes more common in Humboldt County. The finely dissected compound leaves allow the plant to capture moisture from the ground fog common on the north coast. The leaves are very similar to those of the common yarrow, Achillea millefolium, only more gray and deeply textured. The form is a low mound, which expands via rhizome. The yellow flowers rise above the foliage in summer like little clusters of brass buttons. Although the dune tansy grows in a rather unique environment moderated by the Pacific, it appears to tolerate inland growing sites. It is adaptable to a variety of soil types and sun exposures, and even tolerates temperatures well below freezing. Supplemental irrigation is recommended, though the plant may spread aggressively with moisture.