Chuparosa - Red

Plant Type: deciduous to semi-evergreen shrub
Plant Height: 3–5 feet
Spread: 4–5 feet
Flower Color: bright red
Sun Exposure: Full sun

Chuparosa – Red (Justicia californica): Hummingbird Magnet for Desert Landscapes

Chuparosa is a hardy, drought-tolerant desert shrub native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. Known for its brilliant red, tubular flowers and hummingbird appeal, it bursts into bloom from late winter through spring, adding vibrant color to low-water gardens.

Key Features of Chuparosa – Red

• Brilliant Red Blooms: Tubular flowers appear in abundance in cooler months, especially after rainfall.
• Wildlife-Friendly: A top nectar source for hummingbirds and other pollinators.
• Heat & Drought Tolerant: Thrives in arid landscapes with little supplemental water.
• Seasonal Interest: Blooms heavily in winter and spring, often continuing into early summer.

Growing and Care Tips

Chuparosa is perfect for desert-adapted landscapes where color and wildlife habitat are desired.

Soil: Prefers sandy or rocky, well-draining soils.
Water: Water regularly during establishment; once mature, only occasional deep watering is needed during prolonged droughts.
Fertilizer: Rarely required; if desired, use a balanced fertilizer in early spring.
Pruning: Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape and encourage branching.

Landscaping Uses

• Wildlife Gardens: Attracts hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies.
• Accent Plant: Adds bold seasonal color to desert beds.
• Mass Plantings: Stunning in groups for large-scale color displays.
• Naturalized Areas: Fits seamlessly into native and xeriscape gardens.

Summary

Chuparosa – Red delivers bold color during the cooler months when many desert plants are dormant. With its hummingbird appeal, drought tolerance, and easy care, it’s a valuable addition to Arizona landscapes.

Three Timbers Installation Guide (Feel Free to Follow): Chuparosa – Red

Planting Guide:

Location: Full sun for maximum flowering.
Soil: Well-draining sandy or rocky soils preferred.
Spacing: Space 4–5 feet apart for mass plantings.
Planting Depth: Keep crown level with soil surface.
Support: Not required—naturally forms a loose, arching shrub.

Watering Guide:

Watering After Planting:

• Initial Watering: Water deeply after planting.
• Frequency: Every 4–5 days for the first 2–3 weeks.
• Watering Amount: Enough to soak soil 8–10 inches deep.

When is the Plant Established?

• Typically after 2–3 months with regular watering and new growth.

Watering Once Established:

• Summer: Deep water every 14–21 days in extreme heat.
• Winter: May need little to no supplemental watering except during extended dry spells.

Drip Irrigation Setup:

Placement of Emitters: Position 1 emitter 12–18 inches from plant base.
Flow Rate: 1 gallon per hour.
Number of Emitters: One for young plants; two for mature shrubs.
Adjusting Frequency: Increase in hot, dry weather; reduce in cooler months.

General Watering Tips for Chuparosa – Red:

• Soil Check: Allow top 3–4 inches to dry before watering again.
• Avoid Overwatering: This plant thrives in dry conditions and can suffer in soggy soil.
• Mulch: Use gravel mulch to help retain moisture while maintaining desert aesthetics.