Carpenteria californica 'Elizabeth'
shrub RHS AwardN. America Native

Elizabeth Californian tree anemone

Carpenteria californica 'Elizabeth'

The Story

Plant Bio

Carpenteria californica 'Elizabeth' is a hardy evergreen shrub native to California.

This cultivar has larger than average blooms and is known for its vigorous growth.

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesCarpenteria californica 'Elizabeth' offers fragrant, white flowers and attractive silvery foliage, making it a beautiful addition to xeriscapes and garden borders.
Practical UsesIts drought tolerance reduces water needs, ideal for low-maintenance gardens.
Ecological BenefitsProvides habitat and nectar for pollinators such as bees and butterflies.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

72 inches

Width

48 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

8, 9, 10

Water

Low to moderate once established

Humidity

Prefers dry to moderate humidity

Lifespan

Decades

Native To

California

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

Bloom period

Late spring – Early summer

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in early spring for best germination.
  2. Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity during rooting process.
  3. Transplant young plants after the last frost, ensuring they have ample space.
  4. Water deeply once a week during dry periods to promote healthy growth.
  5. Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring to support blooming.
  6. Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape and remove deadwood.

Pro Tip

Use well-draining soil and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Provide full sun for optimal flowering 🌞
  • Water deeply during dry spells 🌧️
  • Prune after flowering to shape the plant βœ‚οΈ
  • Mulch to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds 🌱

Don't

  • Avoid overwatering in winter ❌
  • Don’t prune in late fall or winter ❌
  • Never use heavy clay soil without amendments ❌
  • Don’t neglect to remove dead or damaged branches ❌

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Plant
Prune
Winter Prep

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Silver-foliaged hedgeVanilla-scented borderDrought-tolerant accent plant

Companion Plants

Lavender SalviaCeanothusArtemisiaCalifornia poppy

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Elizabeth Californian tree anemone questions

What zones can Elizabeth Californian tree anemone grow in?

Elizabeth Californian tree anemone is hardy in USDA Zones 8–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Elizabeth Californian tree anemone deer resistant?

Yes β€” Elizabeth Californian tree anemone is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Elizabeth Californian tree anemone bloom?

Elizabeth Californian tree anemone typically blooms in late spring through early summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone β€” Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Elizabeth Californian tree anemone need full sun?

Elizabeth Californian tree anemone does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Elizabeth Californian tree anemone drought tolerant?

Yes β€” once established (usually after the first full season), Elizabeth Californian tree anemone handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.

Keep exploring

Grow Elizabeth Californian tree anemone with confidence

See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.