Coral Bells (Island Alumroot) — Bay Area Native Plants

Care

Sun

part shade, full shade

Water

low

Soil

well-drained; tolerates some clay

Size

1–2ft tall , 1–2ft wide

Bloom

Mar-May · white, pink

Foliage

Evergreen

Deer

Resistant

Container

Friendly

Flowers

Prized

Native Range

Channel Islands of California

Airy sprays of tiny white to pink bells on tall stems

Excellent shade garden plant; more robust than mainland species

Care Guide

Planting

Plant Island Alum Root in fall or early spring in a spot with good drainage - it prefers sandy or rocky soil and won't tolerate heavy, wet soil. In coastal Bay Area gardens, it thrives in full sun to part shade; if you're inland, give it part shade to full shade and plan on extra water during summer. Space plants 12–18 inches apart if creating a groundcover, and amend clay-heavy soil with sand or gravel to improve drainage since this is the plant's top requirement.

After Planting

Water weekly for the first summer to establish the plant, then taper to no more than 3 times per month once established. This is a low-water plant once settled in, but inland gardens may need slightly more frequent watering during hot months. The #1 mistake is overwatering or planting in poorly draining soil - this plant comes from Channel Island cliffs and will rot if its roots stay wet. Expect delicate white-pink flowers in winter through spring; no special pruning is needed.

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