Fremontodendron ‘San Gabriel’ – San Gabriel Flannel Bush

Euan — Thu, 11 Feb 2010 04:17:08 +0000

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).

California Native Flora » Flannel Bush San Gabriel

Fremontodendron ‘San Gabriel’ – San Gabriel Flannel Bush