Shrub · Sonoran native
Brittlebush
Encelia farinosa · Asteraceae
Also called: Incienso, White brittlebush, Goldenhills
Brittlebush (Encelia farinosa) is a very low-water shrub native to the Sonoran Desert region well suited to Tucson and the low desert. It thrives in full sun, with a fast growth rate.
Brittlebush at a glance
- Water use
- Very Low (established)
- Sun
- Full sun; thrives in reflected heat. Does not tolerate shade well.
- Mature size
- 2-4 ft H x 3-4 ft W (occasionally to 5 ft).
- Growth rate
- Fast
- Bloom
- Bright golden-yellow daisy-like flowers on long, slender stalks held above the foliage., Late winter through spring (typically March-May), with a possible second flush after summer rains.
- Cold hardiness
- Hardy to about 15-20 F (USDA zones 8-11); frost may damage foliage but the plant rebounds with warmth.
- Soil
- Requires excellent drainage; thrives in poor, rocky, sandy, and alkaline native desert soils. Rots in heavy or overwatered soil.
- Native range
- Native to the Sonoran and Mojave Deserts of Arizona, California, Nevada, and northwestern Mexico; a signature Sonoran Desert wildflower shrub.
- Best used as
- Spring color and wildflower massing, Slope and erosion control, Low desert revegetation, Filler among cactus and boulders, Pollinator and habitat gardens
- Wildlife
- Flowers attract native bees, butterflies, and other pollinators; seeds eaten by birds; a key Sonoran Desert habitat plant.
- Toxicity
- Non-toxic / not known to be poisonous.
How to grow Brittlebush in Tucson & the low desert
Watering
Extremely drought-tolerant; needs no supplemental water once established but an occasional deep soak in spring extends bloom. Overwatering causes leggy growth and root rot.
Fertilizer & nutrients
No fertilizer needed; thrives in lean native soils. Feeding promotes rank, floppy growth.
Pruning & care
Lightly shear or cut back by up to one-third after spring bloom to keep it compact and prevent woody, open centers; older plants benefit from hard rejuvenation pruning or replacement every few years.
Notes
The silvery, fuzzy (farinose) leaves reflect sunlight and reduce water loss, a classic desert adaptation; foliage may drop in extreme drought and regrow after rain. Stems exude a fragrant resin historically burned as incense ('incienso'). Short-lived (often 3-5 years) but reseeds freely.
Sources: Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum; AMWUA Landscape Plants for the Arizona Desert; University of Arizona Cooperative Extension; Tohono Chul