Flannel Bush San Gabriel Journal
Fremontodendron ‘San Gabriel’ – San Gabriel Flannel Bush
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Flannel Bush is another fast growing, potentially huge, California Native shrub. It has bright yellow flowers in the spring time. The San Gabriel variety is a hybrid of Fremontodendron Californicum and Fremontodendron Mexicanum and is well suited to the garden. One important thing to remember about these plants is that once established (in the garden for over a year) they should have absolutely no summer water. Summer watering combined with the high temperatures releases pathogens in the soil that will kill the plant.
This evergreen likes full sun and can reach a height and spread of over 10′. This doesn’t happen often in gardens due to the aforementioned hydration issues but with the right care and attention this will be a large and stunning part of a drought tolerant landscape.
Pictured is a nursery specimen I picked up recently from the Matilija Nursery in Moorpark, CA. I promise the sunflower in that shot is not competing for nutrients! I have also germinated some Fremontodendron seeds this year and one month in they are doing ok. I’ll continue to post updates as they grow (or otherwise).
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Plant Meta Data
| Common Name | Flannel Bush San Gabriel |
|---|---|
| Botanic Name | Fremontodendron 'San Gabriel' |
| Origin | California |
| Bloom Period | Spring |
| Bloom Color | |
| Light Required | Sun |
| Water Tolerance | Drought |
| Potential Size | 10' x 10' |
| Notes | Attracts Songbirds |
Gallery
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1. June 26, 2010 at 12:09 pm
well, I think I have killed my first Fremontia. How are you doing with seed propagation? I live in Pasadena, downhill from Alta Dena, and I think I may have too poor drainage for the species. I haven’t given up…yet.
Thanks for your site!
2. June 26, 2010 at 4:26 pm
Hi Barb, thanks for leaving a comment.
Sorry to hear about your loss, the Fremontias certainly seem to be tough plant to keep alive. I have one just now that seems to be ok, the biggest challenge is fighting the temptation to water it.
I have found the seeds germinate quite nicely after two months cold stratification. I had a batch germinate in November last year when the temperatures came down a little. Early September is a great time to start stratification during which time the black seed casing will peel open. Keep an eye open for fungus, any seeds that start to grow furry bits need to be removed ASAP. Some seeds may start to sprout during the two month period, so when that happens it’s probably safe to plant all the seeds then just wait.
When the seedlings get to about 3″ tall the plants are getting to the stage where they are as sensitive to soil pathogens and overwatering as adult plants so don’t be afraid to scale back the moisture. I learned that when all my seedlings flopped and died this year. I’ll try again this fall.
Good luck to you!