The Fremontodendron californicum grows to an average height of 10 feet (3 meters). It is native to the dryer eastern slopes of California, but is also found in parts of Arizona.

The Fremontodendron californicum grows from multiple stems or trunks. The lack of a single trunk differentiates it from a tree.

Detail of a branch showing that it grows from a main upward stem or trunk on an upward angle. The branches are sparse so that all parts of the plant are exposed to sunlight.

The leaves and flower bulbs were covered in a short fuzz or hairs. This gave the leaves an oddly soft texture that resembled the feel of flannel. Hence the plant's name.

The leaves were lobed and, when newly formed, resembled oak leaves. The hair or fuzz was visible as tiny white dots where the light is oblique as in the lower left.

The large yellow flowers were roughly 3 inches (7.5 centimeters) across. Although the mature plant can produce flowers and seeds, the seeds will only germinate when burned in a fire.

Each flower has five leaf-like petals that are convex and come to a point or thorn. The shrub itself is evergreen, but the flowers only bloom in the spring.

The typical branch of the Fremontodendron californicum in spring. Note the presence of leaves, flower bulbs, and flowers.