Ocotillo Coach whip
Fouquieria splendensfam. Cistaceae
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Pl. 0CCA — Fouquieria splendens
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IOverview
Overview
Ocotillo Coach whip (Fouquieria splendens) is a shrub native to the arid regions of Arizona, California, Nevada, New Mexico, and parts of Mexico. Known for its striking appearance and edible flowers and seeds, this plant thrives in full sun with well-drained soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 8-11 and can grow up to 6 meters tall. One distinctive feature of the ocotillo is its spindly branches that become bright red when not in bloom, making it a popular ornamental plant. Its light requirement and ability to withstand dry conditions make it well-suited for xeriscaping and other drought-tolerant landscaping projects.
Quick answers
What is Ocotillo Coach whip?
Ocotillo Coach whip (Fouquieria splendens) is a shrub native to the arid regions of Arizona, California, Nevada, New Mexico, and parts of Mexico. Known for its striking appearance and edible flowers and seeds, this plant thrives in full sun with well-drained soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay).
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Ocotillo Coach whip thrives in full sun and requires dry conditions, making it suitable for arid gardens. It prefers light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) soils with a pH range of 7 to 8.5. This shrub can grow up to 6 meters tall and is hardy in zones 8-11. For propagation, use seeds or cuttings. Harvest edible parts such as flowers and seeds when ripe.
Light
Full sun
Water
Dry
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
8-11
Habit
Shrub
Mature size
6.0 m tall
Soil pH
7–8.5
For first-time growers
How to grow Ocotillo Coach whip for the first time
8steps
Start with a simple, sunny spot and basic care for your Ocotillo Coach whip.
- 1
What you'll need
A small plant or seeds, well-draining soil, and a pot if container planting.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring when the weather is warming up.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use sandy or loamy soil with good drainage. Ensure containers have holes for excess water to escape.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant a young plant carefully, or sow seeds in the soil surface and cover lightly.
- 5
First two weeks
Water sparingly but thoroughly once every 2-3 weeks. Avoid overwatering.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun exposure and water only when the soil is very dry. Prune to shape if needed.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune lightly in late winter to maintain shape, but avoid cutting into old wood.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy soils, and not providing enough sunlight are common issues.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:FlowersSeed
Edible uses: The ocotillo coach whip's flowers and seeds are edible. The flowers can be eaten raw or used to make tea, while the seeds are typically roasted before consumption. Both parts add a mild flavor to dishes.
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
8 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
8 native · 0 introducedDistribution across0 continents· 8 native
Broader regions
native:Arizona, California, Mexico Northwest, Mexico Southwest, Nevada, New Mexico, Texas, Mexico Northeast
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
1 related
See also
1 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Cistaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Cistaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
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Companion planting
Compare with similar plants
Growing zone
XII
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