California Tea
Rupertia physodes
Care
part shade
Friendly
Yes
Serpentine grasslands and oak woodlands of the North Coast Ranges from Sonoma to Trinity County, 500-3000 ft elevation.
Care Guide
Planting
Plant California tea in partial shade to deep shade, choosing a location with well-draining soil. This native perennial develops deep, woody roots, so give it space to establish - plant it where it can spread as a groundcover without competing with other plants. The best planting window is fall through early spring when the plant can focus on root development before summer.
After Planting
Water weekly during your plant's first summer to help it establish its deep root system, then gradually reduce watering as it matures and becomes self-sufficient. California tea is a low-maintenance plant once established - expect moderate care needs overall. The plant's main feature is its ability to spread as groundcover, so plan to let it grow naturally rather than fighting its growth pattern.
Wildlife Supported
Insects
larvae feed on young foliage during spring growth period
specialist larval host; caterpillars mine and feed on leaves spring through early summer
caterpillars feed on psoralea foliage during spring-early summer
caterpillars feed on psoralea foliage during spring season
early season pollen source for emerging colonies