Gambelia speciosa Nutt.

Nomenclature and Common Names

Gambelia speciosa Nutt. was previously classified as Galvezia speciosa, and is commonly known as the showy island snapdragon or showy greenbright.

Species Type and Native Habitats

This is a perennial plant species endemic to California chaparral and woodlands habitats.

Geographic Distribution

It grows on the Channel Islands in Southern California, United States, and on Guadalupe Island west of the Baja California Peninsula in Baja California, Mexico.

Conservation Status

It is listed as an endangered species in the California Native Plant Society Inventory of Rare and Endangered Plants of California.

Genus Name Etymology

The genus name Gambelia was chosen to honor William Gambel (1823–1849), an American naturalist, ornithologist, and botanist.

Specific Epithet Etymology

The Latin specific epithet speciosa comes from the word speciosus, which means showy.

Publication Details

This species was first described and published in 1848, in Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philadelphia Volume 4 (March–April), on page 7.

Cultivation Uses

In cultivation, Gambelia speciosa is grown as an ornamental plant for native plant gardens, drought-tolerant gardens, and wildlife gardens.

Cultivation Requirements

It generally prefers a sunny location and well-drained soil, and needs minimal summer water.

Ecological Benefit in Gardens

Its flowers attract hummingbirds.