Epilobium canum (California Fuchsia)

Epilobium canum (California Fuchsia) is a low-growing, spreading, semi-evergreen perennial sub-shrub adorned with narrowly lance-shaped, gray-green leaves that are velvety to the touch. From late summer to fall, spikes of brilliant red, trumpet-shaped flowers put on a profuse show. Resembling fuchsias, they produce nectar, supplying hummingbirds with food for the start of their southward migration. Once pollinated, the flowers produce pods that contain the seeds. These pods split laterally along the sides, releasing the seeds which have a feathery appendage for wind dispersal. Native to the southwestern states in the US, it is the perfect plant for rock and gravel gardens, raised beds, or dry-stone walls, where it will offer an abundance of the most brilliant scarlet flowers for weeks. Its low-growing habit makes it suitable as a groundcover or for the front of the sunny border too.

• Grows up to 1-2 ft. tall (30-60 cm) and 2-3 ft. wide (60-90 cm).
• Thrives in full sun in well-drained soils. Sandy or gritty soils are much better than heavy clay soils. Protect from cold winds. Drought-tolerant once well-established.
• Virtually pest and disease free. Keep an eye out for slugs that may damage the young leaves.
• Propagate by seed, softwood cuttings or division.
• Pruning is not normally needed, cut back to rootstock in spring to renovate.
• Native to the western and southwestern United States, from southwestern Oregon to Baja California, east to southwestern New Mexico.
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