Paper Flower

Plant Type: shrub
Plant Height: 1-3 feet
Spread: 2-3 feet
Flower Color: bright yellow
Sun Exposure: Full Sun

Description:

Psilostrophe cooperi, commonly known as Cooper's Paperflower or Cooper's Goldenbush, is a perennial herb native to the desert regions of the southwestern United States. It's valued in xeriscaping and native plant gardens for its drought tolerance and cheerful flowers.

The most striking feature of Psilostrophe cooperi is its abundant, bright yellow flowers, which resemble daisies. These blooms typically appear in late spring and continue through the summer, providing a long-lasting display of color. The flowers have a distinctive papery texture, giving the plant its common name, "Paperflower."

The foliage of Cooper's Paperflower is another attractive feature. The leaves are narrow, linear, and covered in fine hairs, giving them a silvery appearance. This foliage forms a compact, low-growing mound, which becomes a backdrop for the bright yellow flowers.

Cooper's Paperflower is highly adapted to arid environments. It thrives in well-drained soils and requires minimal water once established, making it an excellent choice for water-wise gardens, rock gardens, and desert landscaping. The plant's ability to withstand harsh conditions and its low maintenance requirements make it a favorite among gardeners in dry regions.

Additionally, Psilostrophe cooperi is attractive to pollinators, such as bees and butterflies, adding an ecological benefit to gardens. Its compact size also makes it suitable for borders, container gardens, or as an accent plant in mixed beds.

Overall, Cooper's Paperflower is appreciated for its vibrant flowers, drought tolerance, and adaptability to challenging growing conditions. Its ability to provide long-lasting color and interest in low-water landscapes makes it a popular choice in desert and xeriscaping gardens.