California Native
Yerba Buena is a creeping perennial herb that grows primarily in northern and central California, barely extending into southern California and the Channel Islands. It tends to grow at elevations below 3000 feet. It was formerly so common in the Bay Area that San Francisco was initially called Yerba Buena. The plant's appearance could best be described as delicate, with tiny leaves on very slender stems that creep along the ground. It does not have rhizomes but roots itself as it spreads. The leaves and flowers have a lovely fragrance and are both edible. The leaves make a great tea. It does best in a moderately moist woodland setting where summers are cool and there is moisture from fog drip. Also looks good in a rock garden climbing around boulders. Be careful to not let it get covered up by mulch or larger plants.