Fremontodendron californicum
Flannel Bush
Description
Flannel Bush is a fast growing, evergreen shrub that grows from 12'-18' tall. It has 3'" lobed leaves and a mass of 3" flowers that bloom in spring and early summer. It needs good drainage. It is a California native plant that is drought tolerant and attracts butterflies.
Maintenance Tips
Fremontodendron californicum is a large, free-formed shrub that can mature at 12-18’ tall with a 10’ spread. It is very drought tolerant and is susceptible to root rot during the hottest months of the year in an irrigated garden. To keep the maintenance as low as possible, it is best to plant it in full sun, in well-drained soil with very little water once established. Hotter climates may be too much heat for the plant to thrive, so consider planting in a more protected area if you are not along the coast. It is important to give this plant the room it needs to reach maturity. It has a tall, arching, open shape and can succumb to uprooting in wind and heavy rains. This plant will benefit greatly from thinning out the tallest branches or dense parts of the shrub to allow sunlight and wind to pass through the interior of the plant. There is no need for fertilizer as it is accustomed to our native soil.
Plant Type
Shrub
Height Range
12-25'
Flower Color
Yellow
Flower Season
Spring, Summer
Leaf Color
Dark Green
Bark Color
n/a
Fruit Color
n/a
Fruit Season
n/a
Sun
Full, Half
Water
Very Low
Growth Rate
Fast, Moderate
Soil Type
Sandy, Loam, Rocky
Soil Condition
Average, Poor, Well-drained, Dry
Soil pH
Neutral
Adverse Factors
n/a
Design Styles
Mediterranean, Ranch, Spanish, Wild Garden
Accenting Features
Showy Flowers, Specimen
Seasonal Interest
Spring, Summer
Location Uses
Background, Shrub Border, Foundation, Park, Roadside, Walls / Fences
Special Uses
Erosion Control, Hedge, Screen, Fire Resistant, Naturalizing
Attracts Wildlife
Butterflies
Group plants with similar watering needs in the same area.