California Rockflower

Crossosoma californicum

Taxonomy

Division:
Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants
Family:
Crossosomataceae
Genus:
Crossosoma
Species:
Crossosoma californicum

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:
Perennial
Growth Habit:
Shrub
Height:
12-20 ft
Light Requirements:
Full Sun
Drought Tolerance:
High
Bloom Months:
feb, mar, apr, may
Bloom Colors:
White, Purple
Landscaping Shrub:
Yes

Native Range

United States: California

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:
rocky, well-drained, nutrient-poor soil
pH:
6.0 - 7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
Drainage:
excellent drainage required
Moisture:
dry to moderate
Notes:
native to arid, rocky slopes

Germination Information

Pre-treatment: Seeds are surface sterilized with a 5 to 10 minute Physan disinfectant soak or a 3 to 5 minute 5% bleach solution. They are then soaked in distilled water for 24 hours, followed by a 30 minute hot water soak or a 1:2 (v:v) liquid smoke to water soak for 24 hours. Seeds undergo natural cold, moist stratification during early winter months.

Establishment: Seeds are hand collected when fully matured, typically from December to May. Seeds are shiny black at maturity. Catalina Crossosoma is found throughout southern California and the Channel islands.

Source: npn.rngr.net