Chuparosa-Orange

Plant Type: shrub
Plant Height: 3-4 feet
Spread: 4-5 feet
Flower Color: bright orange
Sun Exposure: Partial Shade

Chuparosa (Justicia californica): A Striking, Drought-Tolerant Shrub for Desert Landscapes

Chuparosa, specifically the vibrant orange-flowered Justicia californica, is a hardy, evergreen shrub native to the arid deserts of the Southwestern United States and Northern Mexico. Known for its striking tubular blooms and resilience in desert conditions, Chuparosa is a favorite in water-wise and wildlife-friendly landscapes. Its name, "Chuparosa," meaning "hummingbird" in Spanish, is a tribute to the plant’s role as a nectar source for hummingbirds.

Key Features of Chuparosa

• Brilliant Orange Blooms: The main attraction of Chuparosa is its tubular, bright orange flowers, which bloom from late winter through spring. These flowers are highly attractive to hummingbirds, butterflies, and other pollinators, adding life and movement to the garden. In the right conditions, Chuparosa may produce blooms sporadically throughout the year.

• Compact and Bushy Growth: Chuparosa typically reaches 3 to 4 feet in height and spreads 4 to 5 feet wide, forming a loose, open shrub with slender, green stems and sparse leaves. During times of drought or cooler temperatures, the leaves may drop, allowing the plant to focus its resources on flowering.

Growing Requirements and Care

Chuparosa thrives in desert landscapes with minimal care, making it ideal for gardeners seeking low-maintenance options:

• Sunlight: This sun-loving plant performs best in full sun, which enhances its flowering and overall growth.

• Soil: Chuparosa is highly adaptable to various soil types, thriving even in poor soils. However, it requires well-draining soil to prevent root rot, a common issue in water-sensitive desert plants.

• Watering: This shrub is exceptionally drought-tolerant once established, requiring little supplemental water. For optimal blooming, occasional watering during prolonged dry periods can help, but overwatering should be avoided.

• Maintenance: Chuparosa requires minimal maintenance. Pruning after its peak bloom period can help maintain a neat shape and encourage fresh growth. This plant is highly resilient and can withstand the heat and poor soil conditions typical of desert environments.

Landscape Uses

Chuparosa is a versatile choice for xeriscaping and other water-wise landscape designs:

• Wildlife Gardens: Its flowers attract hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies, making it perfect for creating a dynamic, wildlife-friendly garden.

• Naturalized Areas: Chuparosa’s native adaptability and loose, bushy form make it ideal for naturalized landscapes, where it can thrive with minimal intervention.

• Rock Gardens and Accents: With its vibrant blooms and green stems, Chuparosa provides an eye-catching pop of color in rock gardens or as a focal point in mixed desert plantings.

Summary

Chuparosa (Justicia californica) is a standout choice for desert and drought-tolerant landscapes, valued for its vibrant orange flowers, wildlife appeal, and minimal water requirements. Its easy maintenance, ability to attract hummingbirds and pollinators, and tolerance for arid conditions make it an ideal shrub for gardeners looking to create sustainable and colorful garden spaces in sunny, dry areas.

Three Timbers Installation Guide (Feel Free to Follow): Chuparosa - Orange

Planting Guide:

• Location: Full sun (at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth and blooming)
• Soil: Well-drained, sandy or loamy soil (slightly acidic to neutral soil preferred)
• Spacing: Space plants 3-5 feet apart to allow for optimal growth and air circulation
• Planting Depth: Plant at the same depth as the root ball, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil surface
• Support: Chuparosa is a small, spreading shrub that does not require staking but benefits from occasional pruning

Watering Guide:

Watering After Planting:

• Initial Watering: Water thoroughly immediately after planting to saturate the root ball and surrounding soil
• Frequency: Water every 2-3 days for the first 2-3 weeks to help establish the root system
• Watering Amount: Provide 1 inch of water per session to ensure deep watering around the roots

When is the Plant Established?

• Timeframe: Chuparosa is considered established after 3-4 months when the roots have spread into the surrounding soil and the plant begins showing consistent new growth

Watering Once Established:

• Summer: Water every 7-10 days during the hotter months. If temperatures exceed 100°F, increase watering to every 5-7 days. Provide 1.5-2 inches of water per session.
• Winter: Water every 3-4 weeks during the cooler months, depending on rainfall.

Drip Irrigation Setup:

• Placement of Emitters: Place the drip emitters 12-18 inches away from the base of the plant to ensure deep watering
• Flow Rate: Use emitters with a flow rate of 1-2 gallons per hour
• Number of Emitters: 1 emitter per plant for even water distribution
• Adjusting Frequency: In summer, increase watering to every 5-7 days. In winter, reduce to every 3-4 weeks