Description
Form: Herb.
Lifespan: Perennial.
Leaf retention: Evergreen but dies to the ground in hard freezes.
Growth rate: Rapid.
Mature Size: 2' (60cm) high.
Flowers: Red, reddish-orange, pink, or white, up to 2.5" (6.35cm) 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" (2.5cm) long, light green.
Stems: Arching to upright.
Roots: This plant spreads by rhizomes and is slightly invasive.
Wildlife: The flowers attract hummingbirds and butterflies. It is browsed by rabbits if watered during drought and should be enclosed within 18" (45cm) 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.
Soil: Well draining, dry, pH 6.6-7.5 (neutral).
Water once established: Monthly.
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 to 4" (10cm) 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). Zauschneria californica is a synonym. 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.

---

Do you have additional information or a different experience for these plants that you would like to share? Email info@GardenOracle.com. All contributions are welcome and appreciated.