Definition

Noun 1. A perennial flowering plant native to the southwestern United States and Mexico, characterized by its brilliant scarlet, tubular flowers and its adaptation to arid environments. It is also known by the botanical name Epilobium canum or Zauschneria californica.

Usage

• The California fuchsia is a popular choice for drought-tolerant gardens due to its vibrant red blooms.
• In late summer, the hillside was covered with the fiery blossoms of the California fuchsia.
• This plant is not a true fuchsia, but is called California fuchsia because of the similar shape of its flowers.

Advanced Usage

• Botanical Context: In horticulture and botany, is valued as a late-season nectar source for hummingbirds and other pollinators.
• Ecological Role: It is often used in habitat restoration and xeriscaping (landscaping that reduces or eliminates the need for irrigation).

Variants and Related Words

• Hummingbird Trumpet: A common alternative name for the same plant, referring to its attractiveness to hummingbirds.
• Epilobium canum: The current accepted scientific name.
• Zauschneria californica: A former scientific name still frequently used.

Synonyms

• Hummingbird trumpet
• Firechalice

Related Phrases

• Drought-tolerant perennial: A category of plants to which the California fuchsia belongs.
• Native plant: A plant indigenous to a specific region, such as the California fuchsia is to the southwestern U.S.

Noun

1. shrublet of southwestern United States to Mexico having brilliant scarlet flowers