Wayne's Silver Firecracker Flower
Zauschneria septentrionalis 'Wayne's Silver'
The Story
Plant Bio
A genus of perennials and sub-shrubs native to western North America, commonly known as California Fuchsia. They produce vibrant, tubular flowers in late summer and fall that are a primary nectar source for hummingbirds.
A select, low-growing, mat-forming cultivar noted for its intense silvery-white foliage which provides a striking contrast to the bright orange-red, trumpet-shaped flowers. It is exceptionally drought tolerant.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
8 inches
Width
24 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10
Water
Low
Humidity
Low
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
North America
Toxicity
Non-toxic
Bloom period
Late summer – Early fall
In flower about 2 months of the year
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in early spring for best germination.
- Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity during root development.
- Plant in full sun to encourage vibrant flowering and healthy growth.
- Water young plants weekly, ensuring soil dries between watering.
- Fertilize with a low-nitrogen, high-phosphorus fertilizer in spring.
- Divide clumps in early spring or late fall to propagate new plants.
Pro Tip
Use sandy or gritty soil to mimic native conditions and improve drainage.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water sparingly during dormancy to prevent root rot 🌱
- Prune after flowering to maintain shape and encourage new growth
- Apply a light mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds
- Provide full sun for optimal flowering
- Fertilize annually with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer
Don't
- Overwater in winter ❌
- Use heavy clay soil that retains too much moisture ❌
- Prune in late fall or winter ❌
- Expose to prolonged shade ❌
- Ignore pest signs or disease symptoms ❌
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Prune |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Wayne's Silver Firecracker Flower questions
What zones can Wayne's Silver Firecracker Flower grow in?
Wayne's Silver Firecracker Flower is hardy in USDA Zones 5–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Wayne's Silver Firecracker Flower deer resistant?
Yes — Wayne's Silver Firecracker Flower is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Wayne's Silver Firecracker Flower bloom?
Wayne's Silver Firecracker Flower typically blooms in late summer through early fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Wayne's Silver Firecracker Flower need full sun?
Wayne's Silver Firecracker Flower does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Wayne's Silver Firecracker Flower drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Wayne's Silver Firecracker Flower handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
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