Tall Silverbush: A Hardy Native Perennial for Water-Wise Gardens
If you’re looking for a tough, drought-tolerant native plant that can handle challenging growing conditions, meet the tall silverbush (Argythamnia mercurialina var. mercurialina). This unassuming perennial herb might not win any beauty contests, but it’s a reliable workhorse for gardeners in the American Southwest and south-central regions.
What Is Tall Silverbush?
Tall silverbush is a native perennial forb that belongs to the spurge family. As a forb, it’s essentially an herbaceous plant without woody stems – think of it as nature’s version of a sturdy groundcover that comes back year after year. You might also encounter this plant listed under its scientific synonym, Ditaxis mercurialina.
Don’t let the name fool you – this isn’t actually a bush at all! It’s an herbaceous perennial that grows as a low-spreading plant with delicate, silver-green foliage that gives it its common name.
Where Does Tall Silverbush Grow Naturally?
This hardy native calls the southwestern and south-central United States home, naturally occurring across six states: Arizona, Colorado, Kansas, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Texas. Its wide distribution across these diverse landscapes hints at its adaptability and toughness.
Why Choose Tall Silverbush for Your Garden?
Here’s where tall silverbush really shines – it’s practically bulletproof once established. If you’re dealing with poor soils, limited water, or challenging growing conditions, this native perennial could be your new best friend.
- Drought tolerance: Once established, it requires minimal supplemental watering
- Low maintenance: Perfect for gardeners who prefer a plant it and forget it approach
- Native credentials: Supports local ecosystems and is adapted to regional conditions
- Perennial nature: Returns year after year without replanting
Garden Design and Landscape Uses
Tall silverbush works beautifully in several landscape scenarios:
- Xerophytic gardens: Perfect for water-wise landscaping
- Native plant gardens: Adds authentic regional character
- Naturalized areas: Great for low-maintenance, natural-looking spaces
- Ground cover: Fills in areas where other plants struggle
While it may not be a showstopper, tall silverbush provides subtle texture and serves as an excellent supporting player in mixed native plantings.
Growing Conditions and Care
The beauty of tall silverbush lies in its simplicity. This plant thrives in conditions that would stress many other perennials:
- Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade
- Soil: Well-drained soils (doesn’t tolerate wet feet)
- Water: Drought tolerant once established; minimal watering needed
- Hardiness: Suitable for USDA zones 7-10
Planting and Care Tips
Getting tall silverbush established in your garden is refreshingly straightforward:
- Soil preparation: Ensure good drainage – this is crucial for success
- Watering: Water regularly during establishment, then reduce frequency significantly
- Fertilizing: Generally unnecessary; native plants prefer lean soils
- Pruning: Minimal pruning needed; remove dead growth in late winter if desired
Wildlife and Pollinator Value
As a native plant, tall silverbush likely provides some benefits to local wildlife and small native insects, though specific pollinator relationships aren’t well-documented. Native plants generally support more biodiversity than non-native alternatives, making them valuable additions to wildlife-friendly gardens.
Is Tall Silverbush Right for Your Garden?
Consider tall silverbush if you:
- Live within its native range (Southwest/south-central US)
- Want low-maintenance, drought-tolerant plants
- Are creating a native plant garden or naturalized area
- Need groundcover for challenging growing conditions
- Prefer supporting local ecosystems with native species
While tall silverbush may not be the most glamorous addition to your garden, it’s a solid choice for gardeners who value reliability, native plant credentials, and water-wise gardening. Sometimes the most unassuming plants turn out to be the most dependable garden companions.
