Ehrendorferia chrysantha
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Golden Ear Drops
Golden Ear Drops are somewhat bushy perennial herbs that reach 1.6 – 5 ft. tall. Their waxy, pale blue-green leaves with multiple lobed leaflets resemble that of poppies, and they are sometimes classified as a member of the poppy family (Papaveraceae) taxonomically.
Golden Ear Drops’ bright golden yellow flowers appear at the end of spring through summer, and are quite aromatic. The two outermost petals curve outward from the center, resembling a pair of floppy ears.
In the wild, this species likes dry, brushy areas and thrives on periodic chaparral wildfire. These are the perfect addition to dry, exposed slopes in need of erosion control, as their tap roots help to hold the soil together.
Lifeform:
Sun: Full Sun
Other: Attracts Bees, Attracts Butterflies, Drought Tolerant, Erosion Control
| Ecological Value | Likely larval host of Clodius Parnassian, and a great nectar and pollen source for bees. |
|---|---|
| Historical Uses | Kawaiisu peoples use dried, mashed roots placed in a heated bag and applied to the heart for heart pains |
| Distribution | California and Baja California |
| Elevation | 3" – 8112" |
| Habitat | Dry slopes, disturbed areas |
| Communities | Chaparral, Foothill Woodland, Yellow Pine Forest |