Carpenteria californica aka Tree Anomone

Carpenteria californica is an evergreen shrub from California. Its common names include bush anemone and tree anemone. Kew places it in the Hydrangeaceae family. Its native range covers north-central and central California. Oregon State describes plants on dry, rocky Sierra Nevada foothill ridges. These sites lie at elevations of 1,500–4,000 feet [450–1,200 metres]. It is not native to Oregon or Britain and Ireland.

This bushy shrub can spread as it grows. Oregon State gives a height of 4–6 feet [1.2–1.8 metres]. The RHS lists a taller garden range of 5–8 feet [1.5–2.5 metres]. Its listed spread also reaches 5–8 feet [1.5–2.5 metres]. Growth is slow, and full size may take 10–20 years. Gray bark peels away in broad, thin sheets. The leaves grow in opposite pairs along the stems. Each leaf is narrow, elliptic, and leathery. The upper face is glossy green; the underside is whitish. Leaf edges often roll under and may have teeth.

The flowers grow at the ends of the shoots. They have a scent and five to eight white petals. Many yellow stamens stand out against the white petals. Their shape and color account for the anemone common names. Oregon State gives flower widths of about 0.1–0.2 feet [0.03–0.06 metres]. The RHS records blooms reaching 0.23 feet [0.07 metres] across. These flowers contrast with foliage that stays through the year.

Choose a sunny spot with shelter from harsh exposure. Oregon State also allows some shade under ordinary garden conditions. The RHS favors moist soil that drains well. It lists clay, chalk, loam, and sand as suitable soils. Acid, neutral, and alkaline soils all fall within its range. South-facing or west-facing sites suit the RHS guidance. The RHS rates its hardiness H4. Oregon State lists it as hardy to USDA Zone 8.

Garden uses include courtyard planting and borders beside walls. The RHS also lists it for low-maintenance gardens. Grow new plants from seed or semi-hardwood cuttings. Watch for brown scale and leaf spot. Honey fungus can occur, though the RHS calls this rare. The supplied sources do not establish edible uses or toxicity.