Justicia californica
can often still be found labeled as Beloperone californica. The
common name is Chuparosa which means hummingbird in Spanish. The
long slender orange-red flowers are great for attracting
hummingbirds. Chuparosa plants will be in flower after rains
from February through the end of Summer. Justicia californica is
native to warmer sections of the low desert in California, Arizona and
Northern Mexico. The Chuparosa flowers are edible. The flowers
can be eaten raw or cooked. Justicia californica plants will grow
to 4 feet tall and can spread 8 feet or more. Chuparosa can be found
in the wild in washes and disturbed areas. The soft grey triangular
leaves will vary in size from 1/2 an inch to virtually nothing, depending
upon how much rain has fallen recently.
High resolution
images of Justicia californica are available.
