Shrub · Sonoran native
Damianita
Chrysactinia mexicana · Asteraceae
Also called: Damianita daisy, False damiana
Damianita (Chrysactinia mexicana) is a low-water shrub native to the Sonoran Desert region well suited to Tucson and the low desert. It grows to 12-24 in H x 18-24 in W in full sun, with a moderate growth rate. Expect golden yellow blooms spring through fall.
Damianita at a glance
- Water use
- Low (established)
- Sun
- Full sun; requires it for dense growth and good bloom
- Mature size
- 12-24 in H x 18-24 in W
- Growth rate
- Moderate
- Bloom
- Golden yellow, Spring through fall (heaviest Apr-Jun and again in fall), sporadic in summer
- Cold hardiness
- Very cold hardy, to about 0 F; USDA zones 7-11
- Soil
- Requires excellent drainage; thrives in rocky, gravelly, calcareous, lean soils. Rots in heavy or poorly drained soil.
- Native range
- Northern Mexico and southwestern U.S. including Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas (Chihuahuan Desert and high-desert grasslands)
- Best used as
- Foreground and border shrub, Massing and groundcover-like sweeps, Rock gardens, Pollinator plantings, Small spaces and parking-lot islands
- Wildlife
- Golden daisies attract bees and butterflies; resinous, aromatic foliage is generally avoided by rabbits and javelina (deer-resistant).
- Toxicity
- Not known to be toxic; foliage is strongly aromatic/resinous.
How to grow Damianita in Tucson & the low desert
Watering
Drought tolerant once established; water every 1-2 weeks in summer for best appearance and bloom, monthly or less in winter. Overwatering and poor drainage are the main causes of death.
Fertilizer & nutrients
Little to none needed; performs best in poor soil. A light feeding in spring is optional but not necessary.
Pruning & care
Shear or cut back by about one-third after the main bloom flushes (e.g., early spring and again midsummer) to keep the mound dense and remove spent flowers and any woody dieback.
Notes
Compact evergreen mound with needle-like, pine-scented foliage covered in bright yellow daisies. Resembles turpentine bush (Ericameria laricifolia) but has a longer bloom season and darker green leaves. Tends to be short-lived (often 4-6 years) and benefits from sharp drainage and periodic shearing.
Sources: Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center (Chrysactinia mexicana); Water Use It Wisely; Southwest Desert Flora; University of Arizona Cooperative Extension