Description
Form: Herb.
Lifespan: Perennial.
Leaf retention: Evergreen but dies to the ground in hard freezes.
Growth rate: Rapid.
Mature Size: 2' high.
Flowers: Red, reddish-orange, pink, or white, up to 2.5" long, in clusters.
Bloom: Mid spring to late fall.
Fruit: A narrow, cylindrical capsule containing seeds with fine hairs that aid in wind dispersal.
Leaves: Narrow, 1" long, light green.
Stems: No thorns. Arching or upright.
Roots: This plant spreads by rhizomes and is slightly invasive.
Wildlife: It attracts hummingbirds and butterflies. It is browsed by rabbits if watered during drought. Enclose within 18" high rabbit-proof fencing.
Toxic / Danger: No.
Origin: New Mexico to California and Mexico.

Cultivation and Uses
USDA hardiness zones: 8b-10.
Heat tolerant: Yes.
Drought tolerant: Yes.
Sun: Full sun.
Water once established: Monthly.
Soil: Well drained, dry, pH 6.6-7.5 (neutral).
First Year Care: Water lightly to moderately every day to establish an extensive root system, reducing water as time passes. Leaves turning yellow or brown can indicate over- or under-watering. After the first heavy rain of late spring or summer, lessen water to see if the plant will take off on its own.
Prune: Cut 4" high in winter.
Litter: Low.
Propagation: Seed or root division. This plant self-seeds easily.
Uses: Ornamental, hummingbird garden, erosion control on slopes.

Comments
This plant is a member of the Evening Primrose family (Onagraceae). Another common name is Hummingbird Trumpet. It is highly variable in appearance and a number of cultivars have been developed. The butterfly in the picture is a Cloudless Sulphur.

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