Epilobium canum

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Epilobium canum, commonly known as California fuchsia or Zauschneria, is a perennial willowherb in the evening primrose family (Onagraceae). It is native to dry slopes and chaparral of western North America, especially California. The plant is a low subshrub up to about 60 cm tall and spreads by rhizomes, forming mats or mounds. Leaves can be opposite or alternate, lance-shaped or oval, and range from green to nearly white.

In late summer and autumn it produces lots of bright scarlet tubular or funnel-shaped flowers in terminal clusters. Colors range from fuchsia to pink to red-orange and the flowers are very attractive to hummingbirds. The species used to be placed in its own genus Zauschneria, but genetic studies show it belongs in Epilobium.

Other common names include hummingbird flower, hummingbird trumpet, and firechalice. The older name Zauschneria californica may still be seen in cultivation. There are several forms, with Epilobium canum subsp. canum being a notable recognized subspecies, hardy to USDA zone 8a.

For gardeners, it prefers well-drained soil, full sun, wind protection, and is drought-tolerant. It has earned the Royal Horticultural Society’s Award of Garden Merit under the name Zauschneria californica. Some hybrid cultivars have been developed, sometimes from isolated populations such as those on Santa Cruz Island. Conservation status is secure.