Expert: C.L. Fornari - 3/24/2010

Question
I have a sizable hillside which I would like to plant something which will be low to the ground and yet colorful.  I found a plant called Calibrachoa which I was wondering if it would work.  I would like to purchase it in flat and was wondering if it was available in flats.  I live in Simi Valley, Ca and I was wondering if it could survive the winters.  Any other sugesstions which you would have to plant I would appreciate.
Thank You

Answer
Cindy,
Calibrachoa is hardy above 20 degrees but it does not do well in the heat. It usually stops blooming where it is hot and high heat can kill it. I recommend you look at this thread on GardenWeb: http://forums.gardenweb.com/forums/load/calif/msg091636323380.html

Iceplant is low and does well in CA - I don't know how low temperatures get for you in Simi Valley, however. I would make this overall observation: If no one in your area is using a particular plant to a great extent, it's usually not because they haven't discovered it or don't know about it. Usually, if no one is growing a plant in your area it's because it doesn't do particularly well. There are some exceptions, of course, but if there is a plant that blooms well for a long time, you'll see it in your neighborhood.

I hope this helps,
C.L.