Description

General aspect and origins - Fremontodendron californicum syn. Fremontia californica is also known as California flannelbush. This erect tree is native to the southwest of the USA. (including California, which explains the species name) It is a fast grower and is often grown for its yellow ornamental flowers.
Leaves - Leaves are evergreen to semi-decidious, depending on the climate. They are alternate, 3 to 7-lobed, glossy on the upper side, paler and hairy on the underside.
Flowers - In temperate areas, this species blooms from mid-spring to early fall. Flowers are golden-yellow, about 2 in. (5 cm) wide, with 5 petals.

Culture

F. californicum is often grown against a wall, which will offer a protection against wind and harsh frosts. This plant is however able to withstand cold temperatures down to about 5-15°F (-10°C to -15°C) and can thus be grown in USDA zones 8 and warmer. It can even be tried in the most protected areas of USDA zones 7.

Note - The leaves have a hairy underside which can prove skin-irritating for some gardeners. This plant should thus be handled with gloves.
Soil - This genus needs a well-drained soil. F. californicum can withstand occasional droughts.

Propagation

This plant can be propagated by seeds in spring, or by cuttings in summer, with semi-ripe wood.