Showy Greenbright
Galvezia speciosa
Last reviewed: July 2026
Galvezia speciosa is a California native shrub that produces tubular red flowers from April through September. This drought-tolerant evergreen attracts hummingbirds and thrives in full sun coastal gardens.

Showy Greenbright (Galvezia speciosa) 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
24"–60" H × 24"–48" W
Bloom
Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
CA
Pollinators
hummingbirds, bees
Showy greenbright is a native shrub with bright red tubular flowers that bloom for months. It features soft, evergreen foliage and a naturally rounded shape that works well in borders or as an accent plant.
Growing Showy Greenbright
Grow Showy Greenbright in full sun and low water. Mature plants reach 24 to 60 inches tall and spread 24 to 48 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Showy Greenbright is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, mid zone.
- May need light pruning to maintain tidy appearance
Wildlife value
Excellent for attracting hummingbirds throughout its long blooming season. Bees also visit the tubular red flowers for nectar.
Common questions
- When does Galvezia speciosa bloom?
- Showy Greenbright blooms from April through September, producing tubular red flowers that attract hummingbirds throughout the growing season.
- What pollinators visit Galvezia speciosa?
- Hummingbirds are the primary pollinators of Galvezia speciosa, though bees also visit the flowers. The tubular red blooms are specifically adapted for hummingbird pollination.
- Where is Galvezia speciosa native?
- Galvezia speciosa is native to California, particularly coastal areas and the Channel Islands. It naturally occurs in chaparral and coastal sage scrub communities.
- How much water does Galvezia speciosa need?
- This drought-tolerant shrub requires low water once established, making it excellent for water-wise gardens. It can tolerate some supplemental irrigation but thrives with minimal water.
- Is Showy Greenbright toxic to dogs?
- Showy Greenbright is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs (aspca.org).
- Is Showy Greenbright toxic to cats?
- Showy Greenbright is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for cats (aspca.org).
- Is Showy Greenbright HOA-friendly?
- Showy Greenbright is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low 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 Showy Greenbright? 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