California Fuchsia
epilobium canum
Also known as: ["Zauschneria californica","Zauschneria cana"]
Overview
A drought-tolerant perennial with bright red-orange flowers, native to California.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Myrtales |
| Family: | Onagraceae |
| Genus: | Epilobium |
| Botanical Name: | Epilobium canum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, slopes, or containers in full sun
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–10"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate to heavy, cutting back up to one-third of the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily). Tolerates partial shade but may become leggy.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to full sun if moved from shade. Protect from intense midday sun in hot climates to prevent scorching. Outdoor placement is ideal, but ensure adequate light if grown indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; place near south-facing window indoors.
Watering
every 7–14 days, allowing soil to dry between waterings
Water thoroughly until runoff, ensure soil dries between waterings, and avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or loamy soil with low organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter for better structure.
Temperature
Thrives in warm temperatures (65–90°F or 18–32°C). Tolerates mild frosts but prefers mild winters.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation in hot weather.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during active growth with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer
Fertilize sparingly to prevent leggy growth; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing in winter.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep humid and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F or 21–24°C), high humidity (70–80%), and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix, such as cactus mix or perlite with peat moss.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can speed up root development.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a plastic bag; avoid direct sun during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective pruning of long or leggy stems; remove dead or damaged growth; shape as desired.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or overgrown stems.
Tools
Pruning shears, gloves, disinfectant for tools.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune before new growth; remove dead stems; shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Move to a pot one size larger (1–2 inches wider in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; repot in fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot. May become root-bound if left too long.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; trim roots if needed; water sparingly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and allow foliage to dry before nightfall. Ensure excess water drains away to prevent root rot.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply but infrequently, allowing soil to dry out between waterings. Reduce watering in winter to once every 3–4 weeks.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis, wilting, bud drop, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can cause leaf drop, slowed growth, or death in severe frost.
Solution: Protect with frost cloth or move to a sheltered location. Mulch heavily to insulate roots. Avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade in extreme heat. Water deeply in the morning. Use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength. Apply every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicEpilobium canum is not known to be toxic to cats. It does not produce any known harmful compounds that would cause adverse effects in felines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicEpilobium canum is not known to be toxic to dogs. It does not produce any known harmful compounds that would cause adverse effects in canines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicEpilobium canum is not known to have toxic effects on humans. It is generally considered safe for consumption in small quantities.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Epilobium canum toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How often should I water Epilobium canum?
A: Water sparingly, as it is highly drought-tolerant.
Q: Does Epilobium canum attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Onagraceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–14 days, allowing so |
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