Scrophularia californica
"Bee Plant"

Photo courtesy of Mecanoid Dolly

The perfect California native habitat plant for the shade! Unique 1/2” maroon flowers with gaping throats on 3-6’ tall flower spikes appear in profusion March thru June attracting CA native bees and hummingbirds while the leaves host buckeye and checkerspot butterflies and the seed capsules feed wee birdies. Coming out of winter dormancy, the purplish red shoots and leaves are very attractive, and the toothed triangular leaves are quite handsome later in the year. Wonderful for dry shade under oaks or near creeks, but also for a special place in a smaller garden. Makes a great habitat plant for shade, looking its best in a wildish garden where the spreading rhizomes can be used to outcompete weeds. Looks its best with a little summer water, but avoid regular watering to control its spread. Accepts clay but is better with some drainage.

Anni J

Pt. Shade/Shade
Low water

Perennial
USDA zones 7-10