Damianita, Chrysactinia Mexicana
Type: Evergreen
Exposure: Full Sun
Water Use: Low
Mature Size: 2’x2′
Damianita is a darling of the xeric landscape. This lovely, small shrub fits into narrow hell strip areas, rock gardens, along walkways or massed in groups for dramatic effect. It is compact, rounded in form, evergreen and topped with bright yellow daisy-like flowers that cover the crown of the plant from late spring to fall. It has a delightful, if subtle, fragrance. It should be planted in the spring so it can be established before winter.
Bees and butterflies love this resilient, tough beauty. The deep green foliage and brilliant golden flowers look great when contrasting with plants both large and small that have grey, silver or blue green color. Think lavender, artemisia, ruschia, agave, cacti, leucophyllum or even large accent plants, like Yucca rostrata.
Damianita is drought tolerant and low water, though regular summer drip irrigation helps boost and prolong the blooming season. The tight, evergreen form requires very little maintenance. When the flowering stops, the spent flower parts remain as a dry, golden-brown lacy crown through the winter if you choose to leave them. Otherwise, a light shear over the top of the plant in fall or spring cleans up the form for the next bloom cycle.
This plant is one of those small gems with a big impact. Great in zones 7-11, preferring well drained soil and a hot location, Damianita is an excellent selection anywhere the sun shines in your garden.