California Fuchsia
(Epilobium canum)
California Fuchsia (Epilobium canum)
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Photo by Easyscape
CC BY-SA 4.0
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Photo by Easyscape
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Copyright:
CC BY-SA 4.0
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http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/ | CC BY-SA 4.0
Estimated Native Range
Summary
Epilobium canum, commonly known as California fuchsia or Zauschneria, is a perennial herb native to dry slopes, chaparral, and open woodlands in California and the Mountain States of the USA. It typically grows to a height of 1-2 feet and a width of 2-3 feet. California fuchsia has narrow, lance-shaped leaves and is particularly noted for its profusion of bright scarlet tubular flowers that bloom in late summer and autumn, attracting hummingbirds and other pollinators. The plant’s flowers are quite showy, making it a favorite among gardeners for adding vibrant color to the landscape.
California fuchsia is valued for its drought tolerance, low maintenance requirements, and ability to thrive in poor soils, making it an excellent choice for xeriscaping and rock gardens. It is also used in borders, as ground cover, and in naturalized areas. This plant prefers well-drained soils and full sun exposure, although it can tolerate some light shade. It is hardy to USDA zone 8a and can withstand periods of drought once established. While it is generally disease-resistant, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. Cultivars of Epilobium canum have received the Royal Horticultural Society’s Award of Garden Merit, indicating their exceptional qualities for garden use.CC BY-SA 4.0
California fuchsia is valued for its drought tolerance, low maintenance requirements, and ability to thrive in poor soils, making it an excellent choice for xeriscaping and rock gardens. It is also used in borders, as ground cover, and in naturalized areas. This plant prefers well-drained soils and full sun exposure, although it can tolerate some light shade. It is hardy to USDA zone 8a and can withstand periods of drought once established. While it is generally disease-resistant, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. Cultivars of Epilobium canum have received the Royal Horticultural Society’s Award of Garden Merit, indicating their exceptional qualities for garden use.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Herb, Shrub
- Height: 1-2 feet
- Width: 2-3 feet
- Growth Rate: Moderate
- Flower Color: Orange, Red
- Flowering Season: Summer, Fall
- Leaf Retention: Deciduous
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Full Sun
- Water: Low
- Drainage: Medium
Common Uses
Bank Stabilization, Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Erosion Control, Fragrant, Groundcover, Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance, Potted Plant, Rock Garden, Salt Tolerant, Showy Flowers, Street Planting
Natural Habitat
Dry slopes, chaparral, and open woodlands in California and the Mountain States
Other Names
Common Names: Zauschneria , Kolibritrumpet , Hummingbird Trumpet
Scientific Names: Epilobium canum , Zauschneria californica var. microphylla , Zauschneria microphylla , Zauschneria californica f. albiflora
GBIF Accepted Name: Epilobium canum (Greene) P.H.Raven