Woolly Amsonia
Amsonia tomentosa
Height: Around 1 to 2 feet tall
Habitat: Sandy or gravelly soils in desert grasslands, washes, and open scrub
Elevation: Typically found between 2,000 and 6,000 feet
Range: Southwestern United States, including Arizona, New Mexico, Nevada, California, Utah, and parts of northern Mexico
Description:
Woolly Amsonia is a compact, soft-looking perennial with narrow, silvery-green leaves covered in fine hairs—hence the name “woolly.” In spring, it produces clusters of star-shaped, pale blue to lavender flowers. The whole plant has a delicate, airy look, and its fuzzy texture helps it conserve water.
Uses:
Primarily valued for its role in native landscaping and habitat gardens. While not widely known for medicinal use, it supports pollinators like bees and butterflies. Its drought tolerance makes it a good choice for desert restoration projects.
Found in
creosote bush scrub, pinyon-juniper woodland, Joshua tree woodland habitats.
Blooms March-May