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Description
Fremontodendron, commonly known as flannelbush, is a genus of shrubs and small trees native to California and Oregon. It is named after John C. Fremont, an American explorer who led several expeditions to the American West. This plant is known for its showy flowers that bloom in bright, fiery colors, ranging from yellow to orange and red. The flowers resemble stars, hence its other common name, California glory.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malvales |
| Family | Malvaceae |
| Genus | Fremontodendron |
Appearance
Fremontodendron is a fast-growing plant that can reach up to 20 feet tall and wide. It has large, fuzzy leaves that are gray-green in color and covered with soft hairs. The flowers bloom in the spring and summer and are clustered at the tips of the branches. They are cup-shaped with five petals and can be as large as 4 inches in diameter. The colors range from yellow to orange and red, and they have a papery texture.
Care Guide
Fremontodendron is a relatively easy plant to care for. Here are some tips to keep your flannelbush healthy and thriving:- Water: Fremontodendron prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate drought once established. Water deeply once or twice a month during the growing season and reduce watering in the winter.- Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer in the spring to promote growth and flowering.- Soil: Fremontodendron prefers well-draining, sandy soil with a slightly acidic pH.- Sunlight: This plant loves full sun and can tolerate some partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: Fremontodendron is hardy in USDA zones 7 to 10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Fremontodendron is generally pest and disease resistant. However, it can be susceptible to aphids and spider mites. To prevent infestations, keep the plant healthy and well-watered. If infestations occur, treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Fremontodendron is native to California and Oregon and can be found in a variety of habitats, including chaparral, coastal sage scrub, and oak woodlands. It prefers dry, rocky slopes and canyons and can tolerate full sun and occasional drought.
Question and Answer
Q: When do Fremontodendron flowers bloom?
A: Fremontodendron flowers bloom in the spring and summer.
Q: Can Fremontodendron tolerate drought?
A: Yes, Fremontodendron can tolerate drought once established.
Q: What is the ideal soil pH for Fremontodendron?
A: Fremontodendron prefers slightly acidic soil with a pH of 6.0 to 6.5.
Q: How tall and wide can Fremontodendron grow?
A: Fremontodendron can grow up to 20 feet tall and wide.
Related Plants
– Abutilon palmeri (Indian mallow)- Malva assurgentiflora (Island mallow)- Sidalcea malviflora (Checkerbloom)
References
– “Fremontodendron.” Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 3 Sept. 2021, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fremontodendron.- “Flannelbush.” California Native Plant Society, cnps.org/guide/plant-profiles/fremontodendron/.- “Fremontodendron.” Las Pilitas Nursery, 19 Apr. 2021, www.laspilitas.com/nature-of-california/plants/1225–fremontodendron.
