Baileya multiradiata (Desert Marigold)

Small and colorful, Baileya multiradiata (Desert Marigold) is a biennial or short-lived perennial forming an impressive mound of brilliant yellow marigold-like flowers, 2 in. across (5 cm), from early spring to late fall. Long-lasting, the blossoms rise on nearly leafless stems above the foliage of woolly, silvery-green, deeply lobed leaves. One plant can bear as many as 20 to 50 flowers most of the year. Attracting bees and butterflies, the flowers lose their 50-60 ray florets early, leaving behind a nodding stalk holding the disc florets where the seeds develop. Native to arid regions of northern Mexico and the southwest United States, Desert marigold is a well-behaved plant with a low and spreading habit, that thrives in poor, dry soils and extreme heat. Easy to grow and low care, Desert Marigold is somewhat short-lived as a perennial, but will self-sow readily in favorable conditions. Desert Marigold, is a ray of sunshine in the dry sunny garden. Great along walkways, around rocks and in wildflower plantings.

• Grows up to 12-18 in. tall (30-45 cm) and 24-30 in. wide (60-75 cm).
• Prefers full sun in sandy or rocky, dry to medium, well-drained soils. Established plants grow well with very little and infrequent summer water. Drought tolerant once established.
• It is a welcomed addition to beds and borders, rock gardens, containers, naturalized areas or Mediterranean gardens.
• No serious pest or disease issues. Deer resistant. It is subject to crown rot if the soil is too wet.
• Propagate by seed (no treatment).
• This plant is poisonous to sheep and does not seem to affect other animals.
• Native to western North America, especially the US desert southwest and northern Mexico.