Known as Rubber rabbitbrush  gray rabbitbrush  or chamisa  Ericameria nauseosa is naturally widespread across the west coast and Midwest portions of the United States  including California.  It is a fantastic choice for wildlife gardens  as its bunches of yellow flowers are exceptionally attractive to butterflies and other native pollinators  and its light brown clouds of dried seeds are later eaten by birds.  Rubber rabbitbrush is a perennial shrub generally  reaching 2 to 5? tall and wide  grows best in full sun  and can be found alongside hardy plants like sagebrush (Artemisia).  The tall flexible stems are pale in appearance due to the presence of felt-like hairs that cover the narrow leaf and stem surfaces  topped with dense clusters of brilliant yellow flower heads in August through October.  Rubber rabbitbrush was an important plant for native peoples  used for medicinal teas and for dye materials.  This native plant likes dry  arid conditions  performing well in nutrient-poor and alkaline soils.  Its extensive root system make it a great candidate for restoration and soil stabilization.  A stellar choice for desert gardens  Rubber rabbitbrush typically needs no supplemental water once established.