Zauschneria Plant Growing & Care Guide for Gardeners
Article by Dean Ravenscroft, Ph.D. - Updated 25th Oct 2023
In this Gardener's HQ guide, we'll explore cultivating Zauschneria plants in your garden, indoor spaces, and other settings.
- Plant Characteristics: Zauschneria plants boast vibrant tubular flowers that are hummingbird magnets. Their bright blooms add a splash of color in late summer to early fall.
- Ideal Growing Conditions: Thriving in full sun, these plants prefer well-draining soil and are drought-tolerant once established.
- General Care: Trim back in early spring to encourage new growth and more flowers. While generally low-maintenance, providing an occasional watering during extended dry periods helps to keep them vibrant.
- Tips for New Gardeners: California Fuchsia is a great choice for beginners due to its hardiness and minimal care needs. They are generally trouble-free, but be watchful for aphids.
California Fuchsia, and Hummingbird Flower: Cultivation & Garden Use
Zauschneria are half hardy perennials that range from 30 to 60 cm (one to two feet) in height.
They bloom from summer through to the start of autumn, when they carry red hanging tubular flowers.
The foliage is greyish green.
A common variety grown in gardens is the California Fuchsia.
Zauschneria californica by Derrick Coetzee.
You can enhance your garden's appeal by choosing companion plants that thrive in similar conditions to Zauschneria and also complement its appearance and aromatic qualities. Consider these well-suited companions Sea Holly, Anise Hyssop, Wormwood, Black-eyed Susan, Common Sage, Beardtongue, and English Lavender plants.
How to Grow Zauschneria California Fuchsia
These plants are most often grown from division or cuttings as seed grown plants may not stay true. Locate in either a sunny (for best results) or a light partially shady part of the garden. It is important that the plant grow in soils that have good drainage. Using a neutral to slightly alkaline pH of 7 to 8 should give best results. These plants will also tolerate slightly acidic soils.
Zauschneria plants should be spaced at about 16 to 20 inches (40 to 50 cm) apart to allow good air circulation and allow space to grow, these plants will readily spread.
If you would like to attempt to grow Zauschneria plants from seed, then it is best to start them off outdoors. Sow the seeds in the springtime on the surface. They usually take one or two months to germinate at a temperature of 59 to 64°F (15 to 18°C) in the light.
Caring for Zauschneria
During their first growing season, water Zauschneria plants regularly. Once established, they become drought tolerant and have no special watering needs.
Pinch back the young tips to encourage branching and achieve bushier growth. The deadheading of spent flowers will help to encourage continuous blooming. Fresh growth can be encouraged by lightly cutting plants back in late winter or early spring.
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Zauschneria Growing and Care Guide
- Common Names: California fuchsia, Zauschneria, Hummingbird Flower, Hummingbird Trumpet, Firechalice, Northern Willowherb.
- Syn.: Epilobium canum.
- Life Cycle: Half-hardy perennial.
- Height: 12 to 24 inches (30 – 60 cm).
- Native: Western North America.
- Growing Region: Zones 8 to 10.
- Flowers: Summer through to early autumn.
- Flower Details: Red-orange, pink. Racemes. Tubular, funnel shaped. About one inch (2.5 cm) long.
- Foliage: Widely variable (Zauschneria has numerous subspecies). Green, gray to white. Opposite or alternate. Lanceolate or ovate.
- Sow Outside: Surface. Spring. Germination time: one to two months. Space at 15 to 18 (38–45 cm). Nursery bought plants should be planted out after the last frost.
- Sow Inside: No.
- Requirements and care: Full sunlight or partial shade. Good drainage. Neutral to slightly alkaline soil pH 7 to 8. Most soils. Protect from the wind. Protect from heavy rain. Pinch tips of seedlings to encourage bushiness. Deadhead to improve appearance. Propagate: by dividing in the spring or take stem cuttings in the autumn.
- Family: Onagraceae
- Closely Related Species: Willowherb, Evening Primrose.
- Miscellaneous: Zauschneria plant species have now been reclassified into the Willowherb (Epilobium) genus, and are now known as Epilobium canum (California fuchsia) and Epilobium septentrionale (Northern Willowherb). As their common name suggests, these plants are especially attractive to Hummingbirds, which pollinate the plants. Plants can become invasive, so consider growing in a contained area.
Common Questions
How many members does the Zauschneria genus have?
The Zauschneria genus consists of four species known for their bright red tubular flowers.
Do members of Zauschneria make a good garden or landscaping plant?
Yes, Zauschneria plants, commonly known as California Fuchsia, make a great choice for rock gardens and borders, providing late summer color.
Which Zauschneria species are most frequently grown by gardeners?
Zauschneria californica, the California Fuchsia, is commonly grown for its vibrant red blooms.
Are members of the Zauschneria plant genus fragrant?
No, Zauschneria plants are not known for their fragrance.
What is the perfect location to grow Zauschneria?
Zauschneria prefers full sun locations with well-drained soil. It's drought-tolerant, making it perfect for rock gardens and xeriscaping.
Is Zauschneria invasive in the USA, if so in which states?
Currently, Zauschneria is not known to be invasive in the USA. Always refer to local regulations for accurate information.
How do I remove Zauschneria plants from my garden?
To remove Zauschneria, uproot the plant making sure to remove all roots to prevent regrowth.
Summary
The Zauschneria genus, also known as California fuchsia or Hummingbird trumpet, includes perennial plants native to dry slopes and chaparrals of western North America. They are admired for their vibrant, tubular red flowers that are attractive to hummingbirds.
To grow Zauschneria, plant cuttings or seeds in spring. They thrive in full sun and prefer well-drained, even sandy soil. Once established, they are quite drought-tolerant, requiring minimal watering and making them an excellent choice for xeriscaping or dry garden areas.
I hope that you enjoyed this guide on how to grow Zauschneria. You may also enjoy the following growing guides: How to grow Begonia and Cape Fuschia.
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