Herb: Rubber Rabbitbrush


Latin name: Chrysothamnus graveolens


Synonyms: Bigelovia graveolens, Chrysothamnus nauseosus graveolens


Family: Compositae



Description of the plant:



Plant:
Evergreen
Shrub

Height:
2.5 m
(8 1/4 foot)

Flowering:
September
to October

Scent:
Scented
Shrub

Habitat of Rubber Rabbitbrush:

Dry situations in semi-deserts. Sterile, especially alkaline soils.

Other uses of the herb:

The plant is a source of latex, used in making rubber. Unfortunately the latex is not produced in sufficient quantity to make commercial utilization practical. A green dye is obtained from the bark. A yellow-gold dye is obtained from the flowers. The stems are used in making wicker plaques.

Propagation of Rubber Rabbitbrush:

Seed - we have no information for this species but suggest sowing the seed in spring in a greenhouse and only just covering the seed. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and grow them on in a greenhouse for at least their first winter. Plant them out into their permanent positions in late spring or early summer, after the last expected frosts. Cuttings of half-ripe wood, July/August in sand in a frame.

Cultivation of the herb:

Dry situations in semi-deserts. Sterile, especially alkaline soils.

Medicinal use of Rubber Rabbitbrush:

None known

Known hazards of Chrysothamnus graveolens:

None known

Plant information taken from the Plants For A Future.