Chrysactinia mexicana
Damianita is a low-growing evergreen shrub reaching up to two feet tall. It has dark green leaves, each up to 3/8 inches long by 1/16 inches wide, and is covered with green to black glandular dots visible under a 10x hand lens. The plant is very leafy, and the narrow, fragrant leaves are everywhere except on the tips. The peduncles are long, and each flower is solitary, yellow, and composite. The golden yellow flower heads have eight narrow ray flowers on slender stems and measure 1 inch across.
Although it is technically a shrub, Damianita is used like a flower. It is highly drought-tolerant and primarily blooms in spring, with sporadic blooming throughout the summer. As the plants age, they may develop a twisted, gnarled appearance. When planted in mass, it creates a vibrant, yellow carpet and is an excellent border plant for flower beds or a ground cover for hillsides or hot, exposed areas. Light pruning after bloom periods is recommended to shape the plant. This plant requires excellent drainage to thrive.
BONAP MAP
Height: 2'
Spread: 2'
Bloom: Summer to Fall
Light: Full sun
Water: Low
Zone: 7, 8, 9, 10, 11
Origin: Texas, Southwest & Mexico