Carpenteria californica (Bush Anemone)

One of California’s loveliest shrubs, Carpenteria californica (Bush Anemone) is a medium-sized, bushy, evergreen shrub boasting loose clusters of up to 20 showy, pure white, sweetly scented flowers, 3 in. across (7 cm), at the end of its branches. Blooming from late spring to mid-summer, each flat, anemone-like blossom encases hundreds of bright yellow stamens. The lush foliage of thick, narrowly elliptic, glossy, dark green leaves, 3 to 4 in. long (7-10 cm), makes a lovely backdrop to the flowers. Drought tolerant and deer resistant, Bush Anemone is a charming ornamental shrub that can be used as a specimen where its bright flowers will light up a shaded corner of the garden. Bush Anemone is also beautiful massed against a wall or bordering a path.

• Grows up to 4-8 ft. tall and wide (120-240 cm). Can grow as tall as 8 ft. tall (240 cm) and 12 ft. wide (360 cm) in the wild.
• Performs best in well-drained soils in full sun. Appreciates dappled shade in hot summer climates. Good drainage in light, sandy soil is preferred. Site this plant in a sheltered area of the garden. Do not fertilize. This California native can survive on very little water once established.
• Great for wall-side borders or Mediterranean gardens.
• Keep an eye out for brown scale or leaf spot. Deer resistant.
• Bush Anemones usually maintain an attractive rounded form. If pruning is necessary to shape or restrain growth, cut back after flowering.
• Propagate by seed or semi-hardwood cuttings.
• Native to California.