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Chuparosa

Justicia californica

Description

The native Chuparosa is a medium to large mounding shrub with a dense branching habit, often growing 4-6 ft. tall, 6-8 ft. wide. Tiny 1/2 in. long leaves drop during periods of moisture stress. Rich orange to red flowers are produce in abundance in early spring, much to the delight of hummingbirds.

Chuparosa is native across low desert regions of California, Arizona and Mexico where it grows in sandy soils along seasonal washes. It is a colorful desert native that provides good wildlife and ornamental value, needing little care and low amounts of summer water. It is a bright flowering accent shrub that fits the southwestern style palette with palo verde trees in the Inland Empire.

Plant Type: Native, Shrub
Foliage Character: Drought deciduous
Habit: Sprawling, Mounding, Dense
Growth Rate: Moderate
Foliage Color: Pale green
Flower Color: Red
Flower Season: Spring
Soil Adaptations: Well-draining soil, Sand
Exposure Adaptations: Heat, Drought, Aridity, All day sun
Function: Wildlife value, Slopes, Parks and open space, Hummingbird plant, Flowering accent plant, Background plant
Height: 4 ft. – 6 ft.
Width: 6 ft. – 8 ft.

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