Name:  Epilobium canum aka California fuchsia Zauschneria canum var. arizonica ‘Sky Island Orange’

Type of Plant: In warmer climates this plant is a shrub, but here in the northeast it usually dies to the ground in the winter but returns from the roots in the spring.

The variety ‘Sky Island Orange’ is hardy to Zone 6 (some say 5…) and is both rabbit and deer resistant. Hummingbirds love it, however, and it’s a good plant to support the hummers that are migrating through in the fall.

Why I Love This Plant:  I love this plant because it comes into bright bloom in September and October. So it’s a late-season jolt of orange that looks great in my garden near the roses and panicle Hydrangea that are also in flower.  

A Word to the Wise:  California fuchsia requires good drainage, so it’s perfect for sandy soils. It also grows well on top of rock walls, or in a gravel garden. In order to give it the best chance of surviving the winter, don’t cut it down in the fall, but wait until spring.

This Epilobium is the perfect late-flowering plant for rock gardens or the top of walls. It likes the heat reflected from the stones, and it grows well in sandy soils.

Autumnal colors fill this garden as the roses put on their fall bloom, and the Zinfin Doll Hydrangea turns a rich burgundy.