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Flannel Bush
Fremontodendron californicum
10-20' tall / 20' wide
Flannel Bush is a large shrub that is semi-deciduous in drought but stays evergreen when near a seasonal creek. The plant wants to be far enough away to stay dry, but close enough to get a drink. The leaves are deep green, wavy, wrinkly and has dusty orange hairs. The flowers are abnormally large for a native plant, vibrant yellow and stunning.
In the garden, Flannel Bush is used primarily for its gorgeous blooms. The plant itself is pretty finicky and short lived. It really needs the perfect spot. A gentle slope, close enough to some water but not to the point of being saturated. This plant is not for the faint of heart. I have given up on trying to grow this plant in clay soil but I may try again for a site with decomposed granite.
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