California Bush Anemone (Carpenteria californica)

California Bush Anemone

Carpenteria californica

Fragrant white blooms glow like moonlight in summer gardens. Evergreen flowering shrub; common name: California bush anemone.

Full sun
1–2/week
Moderate
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Full sun to partial shade; provide afternoon shade in hot inland regions to prevent leaf scorch
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Watering Water deeply when the top 5–7 cm of soil dries out; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot
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Temperature Hardy to -12°C; tolerates high summer heat with consistent soil moisture
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Narrow, leathery dark green leaves with smooth margins, arranged oppositely on stems
  • Flower: 5–7 cm wide fragrant white blooms with bright golden yellow central stamens
  • Stem: Woody gray-brown stems with peeling bark as the shrub matures
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Care Guide

Watering

Water deeply once weekly during active growth; increase frequency during extreme heatwaves

Fertilization

Apply balanced organic fertilizer once in early spring. Use low-nitrogen fertilizer to promote flowering rather than excessive foliage growth

Eggshell powder top dressing:Crush dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle 1–2 tbsp around the plant base and water in lightly to release nutrients
Pruning
  • Prune lightly immediately after flowering to maintain rounded shape and encourage new growth for next season
  • Remove dead, damaged, or crossing stems in early spring to improve airflow
  • Thin overcrowded branches to promote better light penetration and flower production
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats; no reported toxic reactions

Humans: Non-toxic to humans; no known adverse health effects from ingestion or contact

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental garden shrub; cut flowers for fragrant floral arrangements