How to Grow Desert Broom

Desert Broom

Ericameria nauseosa

shrub

Desert broom is a semi-woody perennial shrub native to arid and semi-arid regions of the southwestern United States. It features small, narrow leaves and produces masses of tiny yellow flowers in late summer and fall. This drought-tolerant plant is valued for its ability to thrive in harsh desert conditions with minimal water and maintenance.

Growing Conditions

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Sun: Full sun, 8+ hours daily; essential for optimal growth and flowering

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Water: Low water needs once established; water moderately during establishment (first year). In arid climates, provide occasional deep watering during extended dry periods. Drought-tolerant but benefits from infrequent irrigation in very hot, dry regions. Reduce watering in winter.

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Spacing: 36-60 inches (3-5 feet) apart for mature size inches

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Days to maturity: Not applicable; perennial shrub reaches mature size in 2-3 years

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Planting depth: Plant transplants at same depth as nursery container; seeds can be surface-sown or lightly covered (1/8 inch)

Soil

Type: Well-draining sandy or gravelly soil; tolerates poor, infertile soils

pH: 6.5-7.5

Amendments:

Coarse sand or gravel to improve drainage Minimal compost; avoid heavy organic amendments that retain moisture

Growing Zones

Find your zone →

Zones 5-10; best performance in zones 7-9 in arid and semi-arid climates

4b 5a 5b 6a 6b 7a 7b 8a 8b 9a 9b 10a

Growth Stages

Seedling

4-8 weeks

Tiny seedlings with narrow cotyledons and emerging true leaves; very delicate and slow-growing initially

Keep soil barely moist; provide bright light and excellent drainage; protect from excessive moisture

Establishment

6-12 months

Young plant developing a woody base and multiple stems; growing taller with fine, narrow foliage becoming more apparent

Water moderately during first year; avoid overwatering; allow plant to establish deep root system; minimal fertilizer needed

Vegetative Growth

Ongoing, 1-2+ years

Mature shrub with extensive branching, fine needle-like leaves, and gray-green to olive-green foliage

Minimal watering once established; no fertilizer needed; prune lightly to maintain shape if desired; very low maintenance

Flowering

Late August through November, 8-12 weeks

Shrub covered with small, bright yellow flower clusters (panicles) along branch tips; highly aromatic

Do not deadhead unless spent flowers are undesirable; flowering indicates plant vigor; continue minimal watering

Seed Production & Dormancy

December-March

Flowers develop into small, wind-dispersed seeds; foliage may defoliate in winter in colder zones; new growth resumes in spring

Seeds will self-sow in favorable conditions; allow natural dormancy; water infrequently in winter

Companion Planting

Plan your garden →

Plant with:

Desert marigold Four o'clock Desert lantana Desert willow Creosote bush Rabbitbrush Apache plume Silverleaf Desert rose

Avoid planting near:

Water-loving plants (hydrangea, azalea, fern) Plants requiring rich, moist soil Competing shrubs in very limited water scenarios

Common Pests

Rare in this species; spray with water or insecticidal soap if severe; usually not necessary
Hand-pick or use row covers on young plants; rarely cause significant damage
Prune affected branches; spray with horticultural oil in early spring if infestation is heavy

Uses

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Xeriscape & Desert Landscaping

Ornamental

Ideal for water-wise landscapes, native plant gardens, and arid region landscaping. Provides late-season color, structure, and wildlife habitat with minimal resources. [source]

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Pollinator & Wildlife Habitat

Wildlife

Late-season flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators when few other plants are blooming. Seeds provide food for birds and small mammals; dense foliage offers shelter. [source]

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Cut & Dried Flowers

Household

Golden flower clusters can be cut for fresh or dried arrangements, adding long-lasting color and texture to floral displays. [source]

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Traditional & Herbal Use

Medicinal

Historically used by Native American tribes and in folk medicine of arid regions for respiratory support and digestive purposes; modern research is limited. [source]

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Erosion Control & Soil Stabilization

Environmental

Deep root systems help stabilize sandy and gravelly soils, making it valuable for erosion control on slopes and disturbed areas in arid regions. [source]

This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.

Harvest Tips

Desert broom is not harvested for food or forage. Seeds can be collected in fall for propagation by cutting seed heads and allowing them to dry; sow fresh or store in cool, dry conditions. Plant material can be harvested for ornamental use or dried flower arrangements during peak bloom (September-October).

Fun Facts

🌱 Desert broom is highly aromatic; the pungent smell of the foliage has earned it the nickname 'rabbit brush' in some regions and gives the species name 'nauseosa' (meaning 'nauseous' or 'foul-smelling'), though many gardeners find the scent pleasant or invigorating.
🌱 The plant's explosive fall bloom occurs when many desert plants have finished flowering, making it a crucial late-season nectar source for pollinators preparing for winter.
🌱 Desert broom is a pioneer species that colonizes disturbed, marginal lands and has become increasingly common in semi-arid western landscapes due to grazing and fire suppression, demonstrating its remarkable resilience and adaptability.

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