Epilobium canum ‘Calistoga’ (California Fuchsia)

Epilobium canum ‘Calistoga’ (California Fuchsia) is a low-growing, spreading, deciduous sub-shrub adorned with narrowly lance-shaped, gray-green leaves that are velvety to the touch. In late summer to fall, spikes of brilliant deep orange-red flowers put on a profuse show. Resembling fuchsias, they are visited by hummingbirds. A native of hot dry places on the west coast of North America, 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 for the front of the sunny border too.

• Grows up to 1-2 ft. tall (30-60 cm) and 2-4 ft. wide (60-120 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 not normally needed, cut back to rootstock in spring to renovate.