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Horkelia

Horkelia californica

perennial herb View on Calscape

Care

Sun

full sun, part shade

Water

moderate

Soil

Fast; Prefers sandy or well drained soil.

Size

0–4ft tall

Bloom

Mar-Aug

Container

Friendly

Flowers

Prized

Native Range

Central California Coast Ranges and Sierra foothills from Kern County to Mendocino County, typically 500-3000 ft in chaparral and oak woodland.

Care Guide

Planting

Plant California horkelia in full sun with fast-draining, sandy soil - this is non-negotiable, as it comes from coastal and mountain slopes where drainage is excellent. Space plants to accommodate their variable mature height (10 cm to over 1 meter) and clumping habit. Plant in spring or fall to give roots time to establish before extreme temperatures. Avoid heavy clay soils; amend with sand or perlite if needed to ensure water moves through quickly.

After Planting

Water moderately and consistently through your first summer, then taper off as the plant establishes - it's adapted to California's dry season and doesn't need summer babying once rooted. The biggest mistake people make is overwatering or planting in poor-draining soil, which will rot the roots faster than you'd expect for a moderate-care plant. Year one focuses on root establishment; by year two you should see the plant fill in and bloom from March through August. Expect this perennial to go dormant or look sparse in winter - this is normal.

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