Fremon's Bushmallow
Malacothamnus fremontii
Care
full sun, part shade
very low
Fast, Medium, Slow; Adaptable.
7–7ft tall
Mar-Aug
Friendly
Prized
Chaparral and interior scrub of the Sierra Nevada foothills and inner Coast Ranges from Kern to Madera County, 1500-4000 ft elevation
Care Guide
Planting
Plant Fremon's Bushmallow in full sun with fast-draining soil - it's adaptable to various soil types but won't tolerate wet feet. Space plants according to your desired mature height (up to 7 feet), keeping in mind they work well as hedges. Spring is the best time to plant in the Bay Area, giving the shrub the growing season to establish before summer.
After Planting
Water weekly during your plant's first summer, then transition to very low water once established - this is a California native adapted to drought. The #1 mistake is overwatering; once the plant is in the ground, resist the urge to keep it moist. Prune as needed to maintain your desired shape, and expect pale purple flowers from March through August during the growing season.
Visit Calscape for more information about Fremon's Bushmallow
Wildlife Supported
Birds
nectar source during spring bloom and breeding season
Insects
larval development in woody stems and branches
pollen source during blooming period
native bee utilizing pollen during blooming season
larval host plant for spring brood development