California Fuchsia
Epilobium canum
Last reviewed: July 2026
California Fuchsia (Epilobium canum) is a drought-tolerant native shrub that blooms from June through October across the western United States. Its bright red tubular flowers attract hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies.
California Fuchsia (Epilobium canum) is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs or cats (aspca.org (opens in new tab), last reviewed 2026-05-21). If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
12"–48" H × 12"–36" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct
Native to
AZ, CA, ID, NM and 4 more states
Pollinators
bees, hummingbirds, butterflies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Epilobium canum, commonly called fuchsia, is a drought-tolerant native shrub prized for its vibrant red-orange tubular flowers. It blooms profusely from summer through fall, creating a striking display when many other plants have finished flowering.
Growing California Fuchsia
Grow California Fuchsia in full sun and low water. Mature plants reach 12 to 48 inches tall and spread 12 to 36 inches wide. Expect moderate maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
California Fuchsia is an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement. Maintenance level: moderate. Tidiness: 3 out of 5.
Works well in: foundation, mid zone.
- Can look scraggly if not pruned annually
- May spread and appear unkempt without maintenance
- Winter appearance can be somewhat dormant-looking
Wildlife value
Host plant for Mormon Metalmark.
Fuchsia is an excellent hummingbird attractor, serving as a critical late-season nectar source. It also supports native bees and butterflies.
Common questions
- When does California Fuchsia bloom?
- California Fuchsia blooms from June through October, providing late-season color when many other native plants have finished flowering.
- What pollinators visit California Fuchsia?
- California Fuchsia attracts hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies with its tubular red flowers that are rich in nectar.
- Where is California Fuchsia native?
- California Fuchsia is native to eight western states: Arizona, California, Idaho, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, Utah, and Wyoming.
- How much water does California Fuchsia need?
- California Fuchsia is drought-tolerant and thrives with low water once established, though it can tolerate occasional deeper watering.
- Is California Fuchsia toxic to dogs?
- California Fuchsia is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs (aspca.org).
- Is California Fuchsia toxic to cats?
- California Fuchsia is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for cats (aspca.org).
- Is California Fuchsia HOA-friendly?
- California Fuchsia is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with moderate maintenance.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow California Fuchsia? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz