Mexican Flannelbush
Fremontodendron mexicanum
Care
full sun
low
Fast; Must be fast draining.
6–25ft tall , 25–25ft wide
Mar-May
Evergreen
Resistant
Prized
Chaparral of San Diego County and extreme southern California, below 3000 ft elevation, extending to Baja California
Care Guide
Planting
Plant your Mexican Flannelbush in full sun in a location with fast-draining soil - this is non-negotiable, as poor drainage will kill it. Space it with room to spread, as mature plants reach 6-15 feet tall and 10 feet wide. Fall or winter planting is ideal for establishment before the dry season. Avoid areas that retain moisture or receive runoff from irrigated garden beds.
After Planting
Water weekly during your first summer to help it establish, then stop - once established, never irrigate again, even in summer. Prune after flowering (May-June) to shape it, but the plant requires minimal maintenance once it's settled in. Expect year one to be about root establishment rather than showy growth; the real payoff comes in spring (March-May) with brilliant orange flowers. The biggest mistake people make is overwatering; this plant evolved in dry chaparral and will rot if kept moist.
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Wildlife Supported
Birds
Spring breeding season nectar resource in southern California range
Early spring blooms coincide with nesting and breeding season
Insects
Important spring nectar source for colony provisioning
Primary nectar source during blooming period in spring months
Pathogenic relationship; affects plant health and vigor
Pollen feeding during bloom season