Mock Heather

(Ericameria ericoides)

 

Mock Heather on the dunes at Crissy Field.

Will Elder, NPS

 

Origin Of Genus Name: From the Greek ereika for "heath," and meris or meros for "division or part," referring to the heath-like leaves.

Presidio Locations: Found in stabilized dunes and inland sandy soils.

Range In State: Throughout coastal California. The Presidio is the type locality for this species.

Description: This native perennial shrub has tiny leaves that grow in a fan shape. Its cylindrical fruit is hairy with a white to tan pappus (similar to the windblown part of a dandelion.) The yellow flowers have 2-6 small petals. Mock Heather, also known as California Goldenbush, is one of the dominant plants found in the central dune scrub plant community. Blooms September to October.

Native Californian Uses: The Coast Miwok heated the leaves and used them for skin sores.

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