Family: Plantaginaceae

This genus has about 4 species which are native to northwestern Mexico, particularly the Baja California Peninsula, but species are also found on the coast of Sonora, Guadalupe Island, and the Channel Islands of California. The genus is named in honor of William Gambel (1823–1849), an American naturalist, ornithologist, and botanist. These species were formerly categorized under the genus Galvezia, and many sources still list the genus that way.

Plants tend to be bushy, billowing plants, usually around 3-4’ tall and wide. Reddish tubular flowers appear in warm weather.

Plant in full to part sun. Plants can even take full, bright shade but will bloom less in that condition. Provide moderate watering. Plants are generally hardy into the mid to low 20s °F. Plants are naturally big, billowing plants, but many people will prune them back occasionally to rejuvenate and to encourage a more compact look.

The flowers obviously attract hummingbirds but butterflies also take advantage of the nectar.

Photo of Gambelia speciosa by clakiyama on iNaturalist