Hi Lynn,
This particular photo was taken at a local botanical garden. My close-up photo was from my own plant.
Although this cultivar is rated hardy here, I usually have it growing in a container so I throw it in the garage over the coldest winter months. I'm on the cusp of 7b/8a. They will keep blooming through some mild freezes outside. I've kept them outside in containers until it got around 28 F and they would still be blooming. I lost my nerve and didn't leave them out any longer since container plants are more sensitive than in-ground plants.
They are surprisingly tough plants. The Ruby-throated Hummingbirds here like this cultivar. This one is a constant bloomer. Some Abutilons will take a break from blooming during our hot summers, but this one keeps pumping out the blooms.
I bet they would do great for you! Since you are on the west coast, you should be able to easily find lots of varieties to try. For some reason, it is really difficult to find anything but the stumpy little 'Bella' series here.
