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Chuparosa or Beloperone, Justicia californica

Chuparosa, Justicia californica
Acanthaceae

Chuparosa may flower as early as December. Its red blossoms seem to be appropriate for Christmas.

The blossoms are usually red, but sometimes yellow, attract hummingbirds. Chuparosa is Spanish for hummingbird. The bird's long bill and tongue are suited for gathering nectar from the plant's long flowers.

Chuparosa with Its Namesake, the Hummingbird
glorietta Canyon, 5 June 2009

Chuparosa with Rush Sweetbush, Bebbia juncea var. aspera (Asteraceae)

Chuparosa

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