Local Verdict
"The grand finale of the native garden. Blazes with red trumpets in late summer/fall when everything else is brown."
Overview
Just when the garden looks tired in August and September, California Fuchsia bursts onto the scene with grey foliage and neon-red tubular flowers. It is the absolute favorite plant of local hummingbirds during their migration.
It spreads to form loose mats and is excellent for stabilizing slopes. During winter, it goes dormant and looks ragged, but the late-season show is worth it.
Growing Conditions
Sun Exposure
Full Sun
Water Needs
Low
Soil Type
Well-drained
Elevation
Up to 8,000 ft
Care Cheat Sheet
- 01.
Cut to Ground: Whack it down to 2 inches in late winter (Dec/Jan) to force fresh growth.
- 02.
Pinch Tips: Pinch growing tips in early summer for bushier plants and more flowers.
- 03.
Spread Alert: Spreads by rhizomes; give it room to roam on a bank.
