The Story
Plant Bio
Fabiana imbricata, commonly known as Pichi, is an evergreen shrub with a heath-like appearance, featuring small, needle-like leaves crowded along its branches and a profusion of small, tubular white flowers in late spring and early summer.
This species is unique for its drought tolerance and ability to thrive in harsh conditions, making it a great choice for xeriscaping.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Shrub
Height
72 inches
Width
60 inches
Light
Full Sun
Zones
8, 9, 10
Water
Low
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
South America
Toxicity
Toxic if ingested
Planting
How to Grow
- Select a well-draining sandy or rocky soil for planting.
- Tuck seeds just below the soil surface and water gently.
- Place in a location with full sun for optimal growth.
- Water sparingly once established, allowing soil to dry between watering.
- Apply a light mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
- Transplant young plants in early spring after the last frost.
Pro Tip
Ensure excellent drainage to prevent root rot and promote healthy growth.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water sparingly during dry periods 🌱
- Prune lightly after flowering to shape the plant
- Apply a balanced, low-nitrogen fertilizer in spring
Don't
- Overwater to avoid root rot ❌
- Use heavy clay soil that retains water
- Prune in late fall or winter
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Propagate | ||||||||||||
| Prune |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Pichi questions
What zones can Pichi grow in?
Pichi 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 Pichi deer resistant?
Yes — Pichi is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Pichi bloom?
Pichi typically blooms in mid-summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Pichi need full sun?
Pichi does best in full sun (6+ hours).
Is Pichi drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Pichi handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Fabiana to compare
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Pichi 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.