Pseudognaphalium californicum (California Everlasting)

Pseudognaphalium californicum (California Everlasting) is a rewarding annual, biennial, or short-lived perennial forming a lush mound of linear to lance-shaped, bright-green leaves, up to 6 in. long (15 cm). The leaves are hairy, sticky, and delightfully scented. Their aroma is reminiscent of maple syrup with hints of lemon and camphor. As the season progresses, the plant produces one or more erect, leafy branching stems that are topped in mid-spring to mid-summer with bountiful clusters of long-lasting composite flowers. Perfect for dried floral arrangements, the inflorescences are composed of 3-8 small flower heads made up of slightly visible yellow disk florets surrounded by an involucre of rows of bright white phyllaries. The blossoms are attractive to bees and butterflies and are followed by tiny seeds that are dispersed by the wind. California Everlasting becomes dormant during the summer and springs to life after the next rains. Native to the west coast of North America from Washington to Baja California, California Everlasting occurs naturally in dry, open places in forests, grasslands, and shrub lands (chaparral, coastal sage scrub, and mixed evergreen), often on slopes or in disturbed soils.

• Grows up to 6-30 in. tall (15-75 cm) and up to 24 in. wide (60 cm). This plant re-seeds itself prolifically in the garden. 
• Performs best in full sun in well-drained soils. Very tolerant of various soils including clay, sand, saline soil, serpentine soil, and sodic soil. Drought tolerant, it needs very little water once established.
• A good choice for beds and borders, wildflower gardens, informal gardens, coastal gardens, and slopes.
• No serious pest or disease issues. The seedlings are easily removed where necessary.
• Easily propagated from seed.
• Native to California, Oregon, and Washington.