Fremontodendron ‘Pacific Sunset’

Hybrid of Fremontodendron californicum and Fremontodendron mexicanum, a cultivar by Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden. It is a large, robust plant reported to reach 15 – 20 feet tall, and grows in an upright to vase shape. However, we have noticed that this hybrid grows more slowly and stays smaller than the original and may be more suitable for smaller spaces. Pacific Sunset has large, fuzzy, 3 inch wide yellow flowers that have an orange-red blush, as opposed to the original full yellow. The leaves of the plant are fairly sturdy like a geranium’s, and have a similar shape. Called Flannel Bush due to the leaves, stems, and flower bracts all being covered in thick, visible hairs. The hairs can cause allergic reactions or allergies for some people. This is a stunning plant when in bloom in spring, and is an interesting evergreen texture in winter. Fremontodendron ‘Pacific sunset’ does well on slopes since it favors sandy, rocky, exceptionally well-draining soil. It needs full sun to light shade, and dry conditions. ‘Pacific sunset’ is drought tolerant and needs no supplemental water in summer once established.