Carpenteria californicus 'Elizabeth' CalNative

Carpenteria californica ‘Elizabeth’ (Bush Anemone)

Description:

• Height & Spread: 6–8 ft. tall, 4–6 ft. wide
• Growth Habit: Upright evergreen shrub
• Light: Full sun to part shade
• Fertilizer: Low
• Water: Low to moderate

‘Elizabeth’ Bush Anemone is a standout native shrub prized for its large, fragrant white flowers that resemble single camellias. Blooming in late spring, the flowers feature bright yellow stamens and provide a valuable nectar source for pollinators.

Its dark green, glossy foliage offers year-round structure and contrast, making it a strong backbone plant in mixed borders or native plantings. This cultivar is known for improved flowering and a more compact, garden-friendly habit.

Best suited to well-drained soils, it prefers some protection from intense afternoon sun in inland gardens while tolerating more exposure in coastal climates. Once established, it requires relatively little water and maintenance.

Ideal as a specimen or anchor shrub, ‘Elizabeth’ adds a refined, almost formal quality while still supporting habitat value. Light pruning after flowering helps maintain shape and encourages dense growth.