Silver Sea Oxeye

Binomial name

Borrichia frutescens

Common names

Bushy Seaside Golden Aster, Golden Aster

Description

Borrichia frutescens, commonly known as the Bushy Seaside Golden Aster, is a small, salt-tolerant shrub that adds a burst of color to coastal landscapes. With its vibrant yellow, daisy-like flowers, this plant thrives in full sun and poor, well-drained soils. Its fleshy, succulent leaves are designed to retain water, making it well-suited to drought-prone environments. Growing to about 2-3 feet in height, it forms a compact, bushy shape and is often used in coastal gardens or for erosion control. The plant's ability to survive in harsh conditions, including salt exposure and dry spells, makes it a great addition to low-maintenance gardens in coastal or xeriscaped areas.

Light requirements

This golden aster thrives in full sun and requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily to bloom profusely. It can tolerate partial shade but may not flower as abundantly in less sunny locations. A bright, sunny spot is ideal for encouraging robust growth and vibrant, yellow blooms.

Soil preferences, including pH and drainage

Borrichia frutescens prefers well-draining soils, ideally sandy or loamy. It is highly tolerant of salt, making it an excellent choice for coastal gardens. The plant can grow in slightly acidic to neutral soil, with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. This plant is adaptable to poor, dry soils, and its ability to thrive in conditions where other plants might struggle—such as salty, sandy soils—makes it ideal for seaside landscapes.

Water needs

Once established, this plant is highly drought-tolerant and requires minimal watering. It is adapted to arid conditions, so it can survive with little moisture once its root system is well-developed. During the growing season, water regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. In the winter, when the plant's growth slows, reduce watering. Be careful not to overwater, as Borrichia frutescens prefers drier conditions and can be susceptible to root rot in overly moist soil.