Common name: Ivy Geranium
Botanical name: Pelargonium peltatum

Clouds of single flowers are produced from spring through fall on This perennial, which should be planted in areas that receive protection from afternoon sun in warm inland areas. Ivy geranium reaches 2' tall and spreads to 3' wide. Leaves are shaped like ivy leaves, thus its common name. Flowers bloom from spring through fall in pink, white, red or violet. It looks great in containers as it spills over. Deadhead to encourage more blooming and keep plant bushy.

Common name: Santa Barbara Daisy, Mexican Daisy
Botanical name: Erigeron karvinskianus

This low mounding perennial is used as a ground cover since it reaches 2' tall and spreads 5'. It has fine textured, green leaves and white to pinkish, daisy-like flowers with gold centers that bloom spring through fall in coastal areas. In warmer, inland areas, the plant appears to be semi-dormant but will perk up as soon as the weather starts to cool. Control its growth with watering as it can be invasive in some areas. It looks best in full sun in coastal areas but prefers afternoon shade in warm, inland areas. It attracts bees. This is a great plant for rock gardens, planters, containers, or spilling over walls.

Common name: Society Garlic
Botanical name: Tulbaghia violacea

This clumping perennial will grow less than 1' tall and has narrow, blue green leaves. Clusters of lavender flowers bloom in spring and summer. Leaves and flowers have a distinct onion or garlic smell if crushed.

Common name: Catmint
Botanical name: Nepeta x faassenii

Nepeta faassenii makes soft, grey-green, undulating mounds to 1.5' high in bloom, spreading 3'-4' wide. The small leaves are attractive to cats. This perennial has lavender blue flowers in summer. Catmint can be planted in sun or shade and needs medium amount of water. Prune spent flowers to encourage more blooms.

Common name: Evergreen Pear
Botanical name: Pyrus kawakamii

This tree grows quickly to about 20' tall and wide. It is has evergreen, glossy, oval, and pointed leaves. White, fragrant, spectacular flowers bloom in spring. Leaves may fall in winter if very cold. It prefers full sun and regular watering, more in hot summer months. Prune in winter. This tree looks great if espaliered. Fruit is inedible.