I'm having trouble with my mexicana varieties; I think it's just been too hot for them -- even in the semi shade. The greggiis are always OK, I think they love the heat.

Not sure how much water they're getting, but in my area, I give my S. elegans regular water (once a week soaking for 15 mins.), and other three would get moderate waterings (once every 2-3 weeks for 15 mins.).

This is taking into account the prolonged heat of summer and lack of rainfall. :)

Brenda

Ah OK, thanks for your suggestions. I will try give the mexicana more shade and water the plants less frequently (am watering 2 times a week).

I'm not sure where you're zone 9 is, but in my Central Valley locatiion I'd been watering everything twice a week because of the intense heat. If this cooler (LOL) weather lasts, I'll go back to watering once a week.