Calylophus drummondii, commonly known as Drummond’s Sundrops or Texas Primrose, is a delightful perennial that brings vibrant yellow blooms to your garden. Here’s a guide to help you grow and care for these sunny flowers.
Why Grow Calylophus drummondii?
- Heat and Drought Tolerant: This plant thrives in hot, dry conditions, making it perfect for gardens in warmer climates.
- Low Maintenance: Once established, Calylophus drummondii requires minimal care, making it ideal for busy gardeners.
- Pollinator Friendly: The bright yellow flowers attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, supporting your garden’s ecosystem.
Planting Calylophus drummondii
- When to Plant: Plant in late spring to early summer. In milder climates, you can also plant in the fall.
- Location: Choose a spot with full sun to part shade. This plant prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate poor soil conditions.
- Soil Preparation: Loosen the soil to a depth of 12 inches and mix in compost to improve soil fertility and drainage.
Caring for Calylophus drummondii
- Watering: Water newly planted sundrops regularly until they are established. Once established, they are drought-tolerant and only need watering during prolonged dry spells.
- Pruning: Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming and prevent self-seeding if you don’t want them to spread.
- Pests and Diseases: Calylophus drummondii is generally resistant to pests and diseases but keep an eye out for aphids and spider mites. Treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil if necessary.
Varieties to Try
- Drummond’s Sundrops (Calylophus drummondii): Known for its bright yellow, cup-shaped flowers and narrow green leaves1.
- Berlandier’s Sundrops (Calylophus berlandieri): A low-growing variety with a woody base and hundreds of golden blossoms2.
Fun Fact
Calylophus drummondii is named after Scottish naturalist Thomas Drummond, who extensively explored and collected plants in the 19th century3.
