Find at the Fair

Strolling through this year's San Diego County Fair garden exhibits, I happened upon this ground cover perfection, Calandrinia spectabilis, or Rock Purslane. Aptly deserved, it was awarded "Noteworthy Plant" recognition.

Calandrinia spectabilis is a stunning evergreen shrub with succulent gray-green foliage. It is jaw-dropping spectacular in mass. Not only does it have a wonderful foliage and a soft look to it, it's fuschia-pink flowers on tall upright wispy stalks add even more drama. These precious vibrant flowers bloom almost year-round in Southern California gardens.

Calandrinia spectabilis can reach 2-3' tall, and up to 5' wide. It is a drought tolerant shrub, and will tolerate poor soil. It likes to be watered deeply twice a month, spring through fall, and once a month November through March. Deadheading spent flowers will encourage more blooms.

The Calandrinia spectabilis complements succulents, cacti, grasses, olive trees, and California native plants in many types of garden settings. I have a pea gravel courtyard with a centered water fountain. I planted a few Calandrinia spectabilis around my courtyard fountain to add a little color and surprise.

What a great plant find. I recommend planting this shrub ground cover in your garden or your favorite container. Look for it at your favorite local nursery, especially one that specializes in succulents or California natives. Please share if you have this shrub in your garden. Please comment on how you have used it in your garden.

VintageGardenGal Tidbit Thyme....

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