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California Flannel Bush

Fremontodendron californicum

shrub View on Calscape

Care

Sun

full sun

Water

very low

Soil

well-drained, rocky; no clay; absolutely no summer water

Size

6–20ft tall , 6–15ft wide

Bloom

Apr-Jun · bright yellow

Foliage

Evergreen

Deer

Resistant

Flowers

Prized

Native Range

California foothills and mountains; scattered populations

Spectacular large bright yellow cup-shaped flowers

Stunning in bloom; irritating hairs on leaves and stems; excellent drainage essential

Care Guide

Planting

Plant your Flannel Bush in full sun with fast-draining, sandy, gravelly, or rocky soil - avoid clay at all costs. Space it at least 10 feet away from any irrigation system, including drip lines and sprinklers, since it naturally grows far from water sources and will rot if watered regularly. Plant in spring or fall, and surround it with other low-water plants that won't need summer irrigation, which will help you remember not to water it.

After Planting

Water during the first establishment period only, then stop completely once the plant is established - don't let summer water anywhere near it, even if the leaves look stressed. Never irrigate in summer; the plant's long roots are designed to find distant moisture on their own. Your biggest mistake will be overwatering out of guilt or habit, which will kill it faster than drought, so resist the urge to help it during dry months. Expect rapid growth toward 20 feet tall and wide within five years under good conditions.

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