Common name: Howard McMinn Manzanita
Botanical name: Arctostaphylos densiflora 'Howard McMinn'

This shrub is highly appreciated for its decorative characteristics, which include a dense show of small, pale pink urn-shaped flowers in winter and spring. One of its main often overlooked attractions of this plant is the mahogany-red to brown bark (which peels beautifully) that can be revealed with some internal pruning once the plant is mature . It's small, red fruit resembles the tike apple, appearing at the end of winter just as Spring is coming on. Evergreen, shiny leaves are very neat and tidy. It can reach 8' tall and 10 wide. It can be pruned to desired size. This shrub attracts butterflies and hummingbirds. It does best in full sun in coastal areas and afternoon shade in warm, inland areas with well draining soil. Established plants need little or no water in coastal areas and occasional watering in warmer areas.

Common name: California Poppy
Botanical name: Eschscholzia californica

The California State Flower. This small annual (sometimes acts as a perennial) plant will grow to less than 1' tall and has light, small blue green leaves with gold and orange flowers that bloom in spring and summer. It is an aggressive grower and can get away from you in a residential garden space. Plant it in spaces where it is alright for it to roam.

Common name: Baby Blue Eyes
Botanical name: Nemophila menziesii

Nemophila menziesii is an annual. Trailing plants are 6"-12" high, with bell-shaped flowers to 1" across. Flowers are sky blue with whitish centers. Pale green, hairy, fern-like foliage gives plants a delicate appearance.

Common name: California Sycamore
Botanical name: Platanus racemosa

The California Sycamore is a fast growing, deciduous tree that reaches up to 40'-50' high. It tolerates heat, smog, and moist conditions; it is native to riparian areas. It has an interesting mottled bark when the tree is bare in winter. It needs a moderate amount of watering unless the water table is high. Leaves turn yellow in fall before dropping. Hummingbirds and butterflies love the Sycamore.

Common name: Purple or Gray Sage
Botanical name: Salvia leucophylla

The Purple Sage is an evergreen shrub that grows 2'-3' tall by 5'-6' wide. It has white tomentose stems and leaves and light lavender purple flowers blooming in late spring. This shrub tolerates heat and drought. The purple sage is a CA native, preferring full sun. Do not overwater. This Sage is great for covering difficult slopes. Foliage is aromatic.