Description

A dense, evergreen shrub that grows typically to 2 to 3+ feet tall by 4 to 6 feet wide with light olive green 2 to 3 inch long, oblanceolate leaves that are lighter colored and covered with grayish hairs on the lower surface. The new flushes of leaves are a brighter yellow green and since the foliage is held upright near the tips, this plant appears to be gray at first glance. The small, spring-blooming, maroon flowers are lightly fragrant. This plant grows well in full sun to part shade along the coast but should be given some shade in inland gardens. While tolerating only infrequent irrigation, it looks best with an occasional to regular watering. Plant in a well-drained soil or with the crown slightly above grade and support young plants to prevent stem breakage at the crown at an early stage. A great seaside plant that tolerates beachside conditions.