Epilobium septentrionale (Humboldt County Fuchsia)

Epilobium septentrionale (Humboldt County Fuchsia) is a low-growing, mat-forming, semi-evergreen perennial adorned with oval and pointed, gray-green to silvery leaves. From late summer to late fall, spikes of large, brilliant scarlet, 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 hairy capsules that contain the seeds. Native to northern California, Humboldt County Fuchsia is found on dry sand or stony ledges of the mountains of Mendocino, Humboldt, Trinity, and Siskiyu Counties, from near sea level to 7,000 ft. Humboldt County Fuchsia is the perfect plant for rock and gravel gardens, hummingbirds, birds, or butterfly gardens, where it will offer an abundance of brilliant scarlet flowers for weeks. Its low-growing habit makes it suitable for the front of the sunny border too.

• Grows up to 6-12 in. tall (5-30 cm) and 24-36 in. wide (60-90 cm). Humboldt County Fuchsia reseeds easily.
• Thrives in full sun in well-drained soils. Needs afternoon shade in the hottest climates. Sandy or gritty soils are much better than heavy clay soils. Drought-tolerant once well-established but looks best with an occasional soaking in summer (once a month).
• Virtually pest and disease free. Deer Resistant.
• Cut back after flowering if the plant gets a bit rangy.
• Propagate by seed.
• This species is endemic to northern California, where it is an uncommon resident of the rocky ledges of the Cascades.