Chuparosa

Wildflower Species Types of Flowers Bigelow's Monkey Flower Brown-eyed Primrose Chia Creosote Bush Desert Chicory Desert Dandelion Desert Lupine Desert Purple Mat Fremont Pincushion Phacelia Popcorn Flower

Chuparosa (Justicia californica) is an ideal desert Southwest hummingbird bush. In fact, the name chuparosa means hummingbird in the Spanish language.

It is a member of a family of shrubs and herbs called Acanthaceae.

The red flowers bloom from late fall through early spring. The woody bush is drought tolerant and serves to anchor soil.

You can not ask for more in a native plant, except possibly for the petals to be edible. They are edible, and they add a nice dash of color to any salad.

Chuparosa is an excellent choice for desert homeowners interested in native plant landscaping.

© 2008 Patricia A. Michaels