Trichostema lanatum, Woolly Bluecurls

A shrub native to Southern California with aromatic, narrow, emerald foliage. It can be found growing in mountainous sunny sloped sites from Baja up to Monterey. Blooms through the summer with dense spikes of woolly purple flowers, frequented by many pollinators. 

Prefers full sun, sharply draining, lean soil. It's best to get its roots established before the heat of summer, so plant in fall or early spring and water only once a week as soon as the dry season is in full swing and temperatures start hitting mid-80s. This shrub does not require water after its first growing season. Most commonly "killed with kindness" (overwatering). 

Mature size: 3-4 ft T x 3-5 ft W

Minimum temperature: 10º F (will likely resprout from the base of an established plant if frozen to the ground, down to 0º F)

Not recommended for hot AND humid climates.