862013

1

copy Project SOUND

Out of the Wilds and Into Your Garden

Gardening with California Native Plants in Western LA County Project SOUND ndash 2013 (our 9th year)

copy Project SOUND

Natives on the Edge

Native plants that can

survive near the lawn

CM Vadheim and T Drake

CSUDH amp Madrona Marsh Preserve

Madrona Marsh Preserve

August 3 amp 6 2013

Itrsquos August ndash the month for discussing water

copy Project SOUND

Usually we focus on water-wise gardening

copy Project SOUND

862013

2

But sometimes wersquore faced with the

opposite problem - too much water

copy Project SOUND

Common situations with a lsquolittle extra waterrsquo

Areas that get overspray from sprinklers

Areas near a neighborrsquos well-watered garden

Areas near pools ponds birdbaths fountains

Low-lying areas of the garden

Slowly draining areas

copy Project SOUND

Transition areas

between Water Zones

Letrsquos say you have a large backyard lawn

copy Project SOUND

httpwwwdoityourselfcomforumlawns-landscaping464275-turning-lawn-into-natural-area-good-ideahtml

Formal gardens appeal to you

copy Project SOUND

hellipas does lots of green

862013

2

But sometimes wersquore faced with the

opposite problem - too much water

copy Project SOUND

Common situations with a lsquolittle extra waterrsquo

Areas that get overspray from sprinklers

Areas near a neighborrsquos well-watered garden

Areas near pools ponds birdbaths fountains

Low-lying areas of the garden

Slowly draining areas

copy Project SOUND

Transition areas

between Water Zones

Letrsquos say you have a large backyard lawn

copy Project SOUND

httpwwwdoityourselfcomforumlawns-landscaping464275-turning-lawn-into-natural-area-good-ideahtml

Formal gardens appeal to you

copy Project SOUND

hellipas does lots of green

862013

3

The reality is you need to cut back on water use

copy Project SOUND

httptreepmcompropertieslistings2511-borton-drive-santa-barbara-ca-93109

hellipbut you donrsquot want a

landscape that would be more

appropriate in Palm Springs httpmuseum2utepeduexhibitsexhibitshtm

Can we design a semi-formal green

water-wise garden for our backyard

copy Project SOUND

Challenges

Plantshardscape must have semi-formal appearance

Retain some green lawn (or lawn-like) areas

Decrease water use by frac12

Have area be evergreen (or at least appear so)

Some plants are going to get a little extra water ndash those near the lsquolawnrsquo areas

Requires careful choice of design and plants

copy Project SOUND

Base map - backyard

copy Project SOUND

house

32 ft

walkway

Vegeta

ble

gard

en

Vegeta

ble

gard

en

See Mother Naturersquos Backyard blog

for more on drawing a base map

N

862013

4

Current Design - backyard

copy Project SOUND

house

walkway

Vegeta

ble

gard

en

V

egeta

ble

gard

en

32 ft

We find some pictures that inspire us

copy Project SOUND

httpwwwubuitnobaserarkinorddetailsphpimage_id=222

httpwhimsicalhomeandgardencomwhat-garden-style-do-you-

favorhttphouseandhome-comdesigncountry-garden-parterre

httpwwwcupolahouseorggardenshtml

copy Project SOUND

httpwwwmooseyscountrygardencomgarden-journal-07spring-garden-journal-701101html

httpmysuburbanchateaublogspotcom201005le-jardin-magnifique-parterrepart-1html

httpbarrysbogblogspotcom2011_11_01_archivehtml

httpbarrysbogblogspotcom2011_11_01_archivehtml

What do we like Swaths of grass ndash part of design

Semi-formal look curved shapes

Tree(s) provide shade

Large shrubs as screen rest of plants are smaller

Plants form borders for beds

Seatingdining area (8 ft)

copy Project SOUND

httpjsiegeldesignsblogspotcom2008_07_01_archivehtml

httpwwwcupolahouseorggardenshtml httpsthouzzcomsimgs5d8158fc01058bbd_4-7952traditional-patiojpg

862013

5

Oh yes we also like pink amp purple flowers

copy Project SOUND

How to fit these desires into our available area

copy Project SOUND

house

walkway

Vegeta

ble

gard

en

Vegeta

ble

gard

en

32 ft

Letrsquos begin by decreasing the grass area

copy Project SOUND

house

Vegeta

ble

gard

en

walkway

Vegeta

ble

gard

en

Seating area

walkway

Add a shady seating nook ndash and more paths

copy Project SOUND

house

Vegeta

ble

gard

en

walkway

Vegeta

ble

gard

en

Seating area

862013

6

and we end up with a workable plan

copy Project SOUND

house

Vegeta

ble

gard

en

walkway

Vegeta

ble

gard

en

Swaths of grass ndash part of design

Formal look curved shapes

Tree(s) provide shade

Large shrubs as screen rest of plants are smaller

Plants form borders for beds

Seatingdining area (8 ft)

Final design ndash decreases grass by ~ 12

copy Project SOUND

house

Vegeta

ble

gard

en

walkway

Vegeta

ble

gard

en

7 ft

3 ft

10 ft

5 ft

Wersquoll water the grass with low-flow sprinklers

copy Project SOUND

house

Vegeta

ble

gard

en

walkway

Vegeta

ble

gard

en

There will be many areas with over-spray

copy Project SOUND

house

Vegeta

ble

gard

en

walkway

Vegeta

ble

gard

en

862013

7

What could we do to make the garden

more water-wise (and our task easier)

copy Project SOUND

We could limit grass to the perimeter areas

copy Project SOUND

house

Vegeta

ble

gard

en

walkway

Vegeta

ble

gard

en

But this class is about transitional Water

Zones so wersquoll stick with the plan

copy Project SOUND

house

Vegeta

ble

gard

en

walkway

Vegeta

ble

gard

en

copy Project SOUND

Planning lsquoWater Use Zonesrsquo should be an

early step in planning your garden

httpwwwtauntoncomfinegardeningpagesg00101asp

Pretty dry drought-tolerant plants

Regular water

lsquoWater-wisersquo occasional summer water

862013

8

copy Project SOUND

S CA gardens have three Water Zones

(hydro-zones)

Zone 1 ndash no supplemental water soils are dry in summerfall

Zone 2 ndash occasional summer water soil is allowed to dry out between waterings

Zone 3 ndash regular water soil is usually moist to soggy even in summer

copy Project SOUND

Zone 1 ndash no summer water

Includes many S CA native plants (coastal amp desert) Many native grasses Native wildflowers Native bulbs amp corms Many locally native perennials Many locally native shrubs amp

trees

Includes non-native lsquoDesert Plantsrsquo from desert areas throughout the world

This is the lsquonatural conditionrsquo for S CA

lowlands even along the coast

copy Project SOUND

Zone 2 ndash occasional summer water (soil is

allowed to dry out between waterings)

Many S CA native plants both lsquoopportunistsrsquo and plants from slightly wetter CA climates

Trees Large and small shrubs Most native groundcovers Some native grasses Plants that experience lsquosummer

monsoonsrsquo

copy Project SOUND

Zone 3 - regular water soil moist even in

summer S CA native wetland plants

Ponds lake-sides amp wetlands Stream sides amp canyon bottoms ndash

Riparian Community Mountain meadows amp seeps

Plants from more Northern

climates

Some cultivars with natural ability to take regular water

Most non-native lsquoOld CA Gardenrsquo plants Lawns Trees and shrubs from

Tropical areas Any place that gets plenty of

summer rain Vegetable gardens

862013

9

Today we are particularly interested in

Water Zone 2 to 3 transition conditions

copy Project SOUND

Letrsquos determine our actual Water Zones

copy Project SOUND

house

Vegeta

ble

gard

en

walkway

Vegeta

ble

gard

en

Water Zones - backyard

copy Project SOUND

house

Vegeta

ble

gard

en

walkway

Vegeta

ble

gard

en

2-3 to 3 2-3 to 3

2 2

1-2

to 2

1-2

to 2

2 to 2-3

2 to

2-3

Choose a lsquowater-wisersquo lawn grass

Fine textured and summer evergreen Perhaps a Fescue blend

Needs to take sun (mostly) and some shade

Water 1-2 times per week ndash will decrease water use slightly

Mow high and occasionally ndash will also decrease water use

copy Project SOUND

httpredwoodbarnblogspotcom201208rethinking-lawnshtml

862013

6

and we end up with a workable plan

copy Project SOUND

house

Vegeta

ble

gard

en

walkway

Vegeta

ble

gard

en

Swaths of grass ndash part of design

Formal look curved shapes

Tree(s) provide shade

Large shrubs as screen rest of plants are smaller

Plants form borders for beds

Seatingdining area (8 ft)

Final design ndash decreases grass by ~ 12

copy Project SOUND

house

Vegeta

ble

gard

en

walkway

Vegeta

ble

gard

en

7 ft

3 ft

10 ft

5 ft

Wersquoll water the grass with low-flow sprinklers

copy Project SOUND

house

Vegeta

ble

gard

en

walkway

Vegeta

ble

gard

en

There will be many areas with over-spray

copy Project SOUND

house

Vegeta

ble

gard

en

walkway

Vegeta

ble

gard

en

862013

7

What could we do to make the garden

more water-wise (and our task easier)

copy Project SOUND

We could limit grass to the perimeter areas

copy Project SOUND

house

Vegeta

ble

gard

en

walkway

Vegeta

ble

gard

en

But this class is about transitional Water

Zones so wersquoll stick with the plan

copy Project SOUND

house

Vegeta

ble

gard

en

walkway

Vegeta

ble

gard

en

copy Project SOUND

Planning lsquoWater Use Zonesrsquo should be an

early step in planning your garden

httpwwwtauntoncomfinegardeningpagesg00101asp

Pretty dry drought-tolerant plants

Regular water

lsquoWater-wisersquo occasional summer water

862013

8

copy Project SOUND

S CA gardens have three Water Zones

(hydro-zones)

Zone 1 ndash no supplemental water soils are dry in summerfall

Zone 2 ndash occasional summer water soil is allowed to dry out between waterings

Zone 3 ndash regular water soil is usually moist to soggy even in summer

copy Project SOUND

Zone 1 ndash no summer water

Includes many S CA native plants (coastal amp desert) Many native grasses Native wildflowers Native bulbs amp corms Many locally native perennials Many locally native shrubs amp

trees

Includes non-native lsquoDesert Plantsrsquo from desert areas throughout the world

This is the lsquonatural conditionrsquo for S CA

lowlands even along the coast

copy Project SOUND

Zone 2 ndash occasional summer water (soil is

allowed to dry out between waterings)

Many S CA native plants both lsquoopportunistsrsquo and plants from slightly wetter CA climates

Trees Large and small shrubs Most native groundcovers Some native grasses Plants that experience lsquosummer

monsoonsrsquo

copy Project SOUND

Zone 3 - regular water soil moist even in

summer S CA native wetland plants

Ponds lake-sides amp wetlands Stream sides amp canyon bottoms ndash

Riparian Community Mountain meadows amp seeps

Plants from more Northern

climates

Some cultivars with natural ability to take regular water

Most non-native lsquoOld CA Gardenrsquo plants Lawns Trees and shrubs from

Tropical areas Any place that gets plenty of

summer rain Vegetable gardens

862013

9

Today we are particularly interested in

Water Zone 2 to 3 transition conditions

copy Project SOUND

Letrsquos determine our actual Water Zones

copy Project SOUND

house

Vegeta

ble

gard

en

walkway

Vegeta

ble

gard

en

Water Zones - backyard

copy Project SOUND

house

Vegeta

ble

gard

en

walkway

Vegeta

ble

gard

en

2-3 to 3 2-3 to 3

2 2

1-2

to 2

1-2

to 2

2 to 2-3

2 to

2-3

Choose a lsquowater-wisersquo lawn grass

Fine textured and summer evergreen Perhaps a Fescue blend

Needs to take sun (mostly) and some shade

Water 1-2 times per week ndash will decrease water use slightly

Mow high and occasionally ndash will also decrease water use

copy Project SOUND

httpredwoodbarnblogspotcom201208rethinking-lawnshtml

862013

7

What could we do to make the garden

more water-wise (and our task easier)

copy Project SOUND

We could limit grass to the perimeter areas

copy Project SOUND

house

Vegeta

ble

gard

en

walkway

Vegeta

ble

gard

en

But this class is about transitional Water

Zones so wersquoll stick with the plan

copy Project SOUND

house

Vegeta

ble

gard

en

walkway

Vegeta

ble

gard

en

copy Project SOUND

Planning lsquoWater Use Zonesrsquo should be an

early step in planning your garden

httpwwwtauntoncomfinegardeningpagesg00101asp

Pretty dry drought-tolerant plants

Regular water

lsquoWater-wisersquo occasional summer water

862013

8

copy Project SOUND

S CA gardens have three Water Zones

(hydro-zones)

Zone 1 ndash no supplemental water soils are dry in summerfall

Zone 2 ndash occasional summer water soil is allowed to dry out between waterings

Zone 3 ndash regular water soil is usually moist to soggy even in summer

copy Project SOUND

Zone 1 ndash no summer water

Includes many S CA native plants (coastal amp desert) Many native grasses Native wildflowers Native bulbs amp corms Many locally native perennials Many locally native shrubs amp

trees

Includes non-native lsquoDesert Plantsrsquo from desert areas throughout the world

This is the lsquonatural conditionrsquo for S CA

lowlands even along the coast

copy Project SOUND

Zone 2 ndash occasional summer water (soil is

allowed to dry out between waterings)

Many S CA native plants both lsquoopportunistsrsquo and plants from slightly wetter CA climates

Trees Large and small shrubs Most native groundcovers Some native grasses Plants that experience lsquosummer

monsoonsrsquo

copy Project SOUND

Zone 3 - regular water soil moist even in

summer S CA native wetland plants

Ponds lake-sides amp wetlands Stream sides amp canyon bottoms ndash

Riparian Community Mountain meadows amp seeps

Plants from more Northern

climates

Some cultivars with natural ability to take regular water

Most non-native lsquoOld CA Gardenrsquo plants Lawns Trees and shrubs from

Tropical areas Any place that gets plenty of

summer rain Vegetable gardens

862013

9

Today we are particularly interested in

Water Zone 2 to 3 transition conditions

copy Project SOUND

Letrsquos determine our actual Water Zones

copy Project SOUND

house

Vegeta

ble

gard

en

walkway

Vegeta

ble

gard

en

Water Zones - backyard

copy Project SOUND

house

Vegeta

ble

gard

en

walkway

Vegeta

ble

gard

en

2-3 to 3 2-3 to 3

2 2

1-2

to 2

1-2

to 2

2 to 2-3

2 to

2-3

Choose a lsquowater-wisersquo lawn grass

Fine textured and summer evergreen Perhaps a Fescue blend

Needs to take sun (mostly) and some shade

Water 1-2 times per week ndash will decrease water use slightly

Mow high and occasionally ndash will also decrease water use

copy Project SOUND

httpredwoodbarnblogspotcom201208rethinking-lawnshtml

862013

8

copy Project SOUND

S CA gardens have three Water Zones

(hydro-zones)

Zone 1 ndash no supplemental water soils are dry in summerfall

Zone 2 ndash occasional summer water soil is allowed to dry out between waterings

Zone 3 ndash regular water soil is usually moist to soggy even in summer

copy Project SOUND

Zone 1 ndash no summer water

Includes many S CA native plants (coastal amp desert) Many native grasses Native wildflowers Native bulbs amp corms Many locally native perennials Many locally native shrubs amp

trees

Includes non-native lsquoDesert Plantsrsquo from desert areas throughout the world

This is the lsquonatural conditionrsquo for S CA

lowlands even along the coast

copy Project SOUND

Zone 2 ndash occasional summer water (soil is

allowed to dry out between waterings)

Many S CA native plants both lsquoopportunistsrsquo and plants from slightly wetter CA climates

Trees Large and small shrubs Most native groundcovers Some native grasses Plants that experience lsquosummer

monsoonsrsquo

copy Project SOUND

Zone 3 - regular water soil moist even in

summer S CA native wetland plants

Ponds lake-sides amp wetlands Stream sides amp canyon bottoms ndash

Riparian Community Mountain meadows amp seeps

Plants from more Northern

climates

Some cultivars with natural ability to take regular water

Most non-native lsquoOld CA Gardenrsquo plants Lawns Trees and shrubs from

Tropical areas Any place that gets plenty of

summer rain Vegetable gardens

862013

9

Today we are particularly interested in

Water Zone 2 to 3 transition conditions

copy Project SOUND

Letrsquos determine our actual Water Zones

copy Project SOUND

house

Vegeta

ble

gard

en

walkway

Vegeta

ble

gard

en

Water Zones - backyard

copy Project SOUND

house

Vegeta

ble

gard

en

walkway

Vegeta

ble

gard

en

2-3 to 3 2-3 to 3

2 2

1-2

to 2

1-2

to 2

2 to 2-3

2 to

2-3

Choose a lsquowater-wisersquo lawn grass

Fine textured and summer evergreen Perhaps a Fescue blend

Needs to take sun (mostly) and some shade

Water 1-2 times per week ndash will decrease water use slightly

Mow high and occasionally ndash will also decrease water use

copy Project SOUND

httpredwoodbarnblogspotcom201208rethinking-lawnshtml

862013

9

Today we are particularly interested in

Water Zone 2 to 3 transition conditions

copy Project SOUND

Letrsquos determine our actual Water Zones

copy Project SOUND

house

Vegeta

ble

gard

en

walkway

Vegeta

ble

gard

en

Water Zones - backyard

copy Project SOUND

house

Vegeta

ble

gard

en

walkway

Vegeta

ble

gard

en

2-3 to 3 2-3 to 3

2 2

1-2

to 2

1-2

to 2

2 to 2-3

2 to

2-3

Choose a lsquowater-wisersquo lawn grass

Fine textured and summer evergreen Perhaps a Fescue blend

Needs to take sun (mostly) and some shade

Water 1-2 times per week ndash will decrease water use slightly

Mow high and occasionally ndash will also decrease water use

copy Project SOUND

httpredwoodbarnblogspotcom201208rethinking-lawnshtml

862013

10

Then choose a shade tree that provides

some lsquovalue addedrsquo fruit

copy Project SOUND

Western Chokecherry ndash

Prunus virginiana var demissa

httpwwwbringingbackthenativesnetdan-rademacher-and-tamara-

schwarzs-garden

Dwarf lsquoSanta Rosarsquo plum

8-10 ft tall amp wide

Watershade Zones - backyard

copy Project SOUND

house

Vegeta

ble

gard

en

walkway

Vegeta

ble

gard

en

N

Next we choose some background shrubs

copy Project SOUND

house

Vegeta

ble

gard

en

walkway

Vegeta

ble

gard

en

When choosing plants that can tolerate a

little extra water (Water Zone 2-3)

Look to plants from

Central and Northern CA particularly coastal areas

Higher elevations ndash particularly local mountains

Riparian wetland areas

Cultivars ndash particularly those from lsquomoister than usualrsquo areas

copy Project SOUND

httpwwwvirtualtouristcomtravelNorth_AmericaUnited_States_of_AmericaCaliforniaSan_

Francisco-755471Things_To_Do-San_Francisco-Point_Reyes_National_Seashore-BR-1html

862013

11

In fact there are a surprising number of possibilities

copy Project SOUND

Peripheral shrub choices Sun

Water Zone 2 to 2-3

Arctostaphylos densiflora lsquoHarmonylsquo

Ceanothus lsquoRay Hartmanrsquo

Cornus glabrata

Amorpha fruticosa FrangulaRhamnus californica Holodiscus discolor Mahonia (Berberis) aquifolium

Philadelphus lewisii

Ribes malvaceum Symphoricarpos albus var

laevigatus

copy Project SOUND

Evergreen proper size

and lsquoadded valuersquo

copy Project SOUND

Common Snowberry ndash Symphoricarpos albus var laevigatus

copy 2007 Neal Kramer copy Project SOUND

Common Snowberry ndash Symphoricarpos albus var laevigatus

Western N America from Alaska to CA east to CO

In CA Foothills and lower mountain

slopes Locally Catalina San

Fernando Valley

Shady woods canyons stream banks N-facing slopes

Favors well-drained moist fertile soils but also grows on dry or rocky soils

Caprifoliaceae (Honeysuckle family)

httpucjepsberkeleyeducgi-binget_JM_treatmentpl2874289802899

copy 2004 Ben Legler

862013

12

copy Project SOUND

Characteristics of

Size 3-8 ft tall (usually 3-6 ft)

3-6 ft wide spreading

Growth form Winter-deciduous shrub

Many thin arching branches

Mounding then trailingclimbing

Foliage Often blue-green delicate

looking

Important cover plant for birds small wildlife

Deer eat it larval food for Vashti sphinx moth

copy 2002 James B Gratiot copy Project SOUND

Plant Requirements Soils

Texture any including heavy clays best on well-drained

pH any local (60-80)

Light Full sun to full shade part-

shade is probably ideal

Would work well inaround other plants in a hedgerow

Water Winter takes seasonal flooding

Summer quite adaptable ndash depends on light conditions best with occasional (Zone 2)

Fertilizer none likes poor soils

Other fine with wind maritime exposures

copy 2004 Ben Legler

copy Project SOUND

Flowers are small amp sweet

Blooms summer usually May-July in western LA County

Flowers Little and sweet somewhat

lsquomanzanita-likersquo

Bell-like clusters

Near white to quite bright pink

Pollinated by bees flies other insect pollinators hummingbirds visit

Seeds best sown fresh in fall long moist-cold treatment for stored seeds

Vegetative reproduction spreading via rhizomes not a lsquomonster-invaderrsquo but need to take out suckers

copy 2001 Lynn Overtree

copy 2004 Ben Legler copy Project SOUND

The name says it all lsquoSnowberriesrsquo

Ripen late summerfall (often just before leaf drop in cooler climates)

Showy white clusters remain on branches through winter

Palatable to thrushes robins and other birds

Native peoples used as a mild soap or anti-perspirant ndash contain saponins (like Yucca Soap-plant)

Many parts of plant were used medicinally ndash often for skin conditions eyewash

copy 2004 Ben Legler

862013

13

copy Project SOUND

Snowberry often used as a traditional shrub

Door-yard or foundation plant

As an accent plant in moist areas of the year

In dry shade under trees

In mixed shrub borders

Even in large planters particularly mixed w other contrasting shrubs

httpwwwhortuconneduPlantsssymalbsymalb1html

copy Project SOUND

Snowberry takes well

to hedging

Shape makes a natural medium-sized hedge

Can be used as a tall groundcover on slopes

Easy to pruneshear into more formal hedge in late fallwinter

Nice addition to hedgerow ndash will climb up through other plants

httpwwwlaspilitascomnature-of-californiaplantssymphoricarpos-albus-laevigatus

httpwwwbotanyczcssymphoricarpos-albus

Could also use Creeping Snowberry

(Symphoricarpos mollis) near coast

copy Project SOUND

Oregon Grape ndash Mahonia (Berberis) aquifolium

copy 2006 Louis-M Landry

copy Project SOUND

Oregon Grape ndash Mahonia (Berberis) aquifolium

Much of western N America Mexico to British Columbia

In CA Mostly N CA

Also mountains amp foothills throughout Ca ndash locally in San Gabriels

Slopes canyons coniferous forest oak woodland chaparral

In the Barberry family

httpucjepsberkeleyeducgi-binget_JM_treatmentplBerberis+aquifolium

httpwwweflorasorgflorataxonaspxflora_id=1amptaxon_id=233500223

862013

14

copy Project SOUND

Oregon Grape sized for the garden

Size

3-8 ft tall

3-6 ft wide

Growth form Evergreen shrub medium-slow

growth

Stiff upright branches overall irregular or mounded form

Foliage Very attractive ndash leaves lsquoholly-likersquo

Shiny dark green above may give red color in fallwinter

Overall ndash coarse texture

Roots spreads via rhizomes

copy Project SOUND

Soils Texture pretty much any

pH any local

Light Best in part-shade can take

full sun to very shady

Water Winter likes water can take

some flooding

Summer best with some supplemental water ndash Zone 2 to 2-3 (even 3)

Fertilizer likes a good organic mulch renew yearly

Oregon Grape not

demanding at all

copy Project SOUND

Flowers are a cheerful sight

during rainy season

Blooms winterspring Usually Feb-Apr in S Bay

Blooms for 3-4 weeks

Flowers Bell-shaped amp buttery

yellow

In dense clusters ndash very showy against the darker leaves

Honey-like fragrance

Seeds Relatively large

copy Project SOUND

Berries are tart but delicious

Can be eaten directly for a tasty zing

Can be fermented with sugar to wine

Make nice tart jellies ndash good with meats

Boil berries in soup to add flavor

Use to make sauces and marinades for ham pork chicken

862013

13

copy Project SOUND

Snowberry often used as a traditional shrub

Door-yard or foundation plant

As an accent plant in moist areas of the year

In dry shade under trees

In mixed shrub borders

Even in large planters particularly mixed w other contrasting shrubs

httpwwwhortuconneduPlantsssymalbsymalb1html

copy Project SOUND

Snowberry takes well

to hedging

Shape makes a natural medium-sized hedge

Can be used as a tall groundcover on slopes

Easy to pruneshear into more formal hedge in late fallwinter

Nice addition to hedgerow ndash will climb up through other plants

httpwwwlaspilitascomnature-of-californiaplantssymphoricarpos-albus-laevigatus

httpwwwbotanyczcssymphoricarpos-albus

Could also use Creeping Snowberry

(Symphoricarpos mollis) near coast

copy Project SOUND

Oregon Grape ndash Mahonia (Berberis) aquifolium

copy 2006 Louis-M Landry

copy Project SOUND

Oregon Grape ndash Mahonia (Berberis) aquifolium

Much of western N America Mexico to British Columbia

In CA Mostly N CA

Also mountains amp foothills throughout Ca ndash locally in San Gabriels

Slopes canyons coniferous forest oak woodland chaparral

In the Barberry family

httpucjepsberkeleyeducgi-binget_JM_treatmentplBerberis+aquifolium

httpwwweflorasorgflorataxonaspxflora_id=1amptaxon_id=233500223

862013

14

copy Project SOUND

Oregon Grape sized for the garden

Size

3-8 ft tall

3-6 ft wide

Growth form Evergreen shrub medium-slow

growth

Stiff upright branches overall irregular or mounded form

Foliage Very attractive ndash leaves lsquoholly-likersquo

Shiny dark green above may give red color in fallwinter

Overall ndash coarse texture

Roots spreads via rhizomes

copy Project SOUND

Soils Texture pretty much any

pH any local

Light Best in part-shade can take

full sun to very shady

Water Winter likes water can take

some flooding

Summer best with some supplemental water ndash Zone 2 to 2-3 (even 3)

Fertilizer likes a good organic mulch renew yearly

Oregon Grape not

demanding at all

copy Project SOUND

Flowers are a cheerful sight

during rainy season

Blooms winterspring Usually Feb-Apr in S Bay

Blooms for 3-4 weeks

Flowers Bell-shaped amp buttery

yellow

In dense clusters ndash very showy against the darker leaves

Honey-like fragrance

Seeds Relatively large

copy Project SOUND

Berries are tart but delicious

Can be eaten directly for a tasty zing

Can be fermented with sugar to wine

Make nice tart jellies ndash good with meats

Boil berries in soup to add flavor

Use to make sauces and marinades for ham pork chicken

862013

14

copy Project SOUND

Oregon Grape sized for the garden

Size

3-8 ft tall

3-6 ft wide

Growth form Evergreen shrub medium-slow

growth

Stiff upright branches overall irregular or mounded form

Foliage Very attractive ndash leaves lsquoholly-likersquo

Shiny dark green above may give red color in fallwinter

Overall ndash coarse texture

Roots spreads via rhizomes

copy Project SOUND

Soils Texture pretty much any

pH any local

Light Best in part-shade can take

full sun to very shady

Water Winter likes water can take

some flooding

Summer best with some supplemental water ndash Zone 2 to 2-3 (even 3)

Fertilizer likes a good organic mulch renew yearly

Oregon Grape not

demanding at all

copy Project SOUND

Flowers are a cheerful sight

during rainy season

Blooms winterspring Usually Feb-Apr in S Bay

Blooms for 3-4 weeks

Flowers Bell-shaped amp buttery

yellow

In dense clusters ndash very showy against the darker leaves

Honey-like fragrance

Seeds Relatively large

copy Project SOUND

Berries are tart but delicious

Can be eaten directly for a tasty zing

Can be fermented with sugar to wine

Make nice tart jellies ndash good with meats

Boil berries in soup to add flavor

Use to make sauces and marinades for ham pork chicken

862013

15

copy Project SOUND

Oregon Grape is a

popular home shrub

foundation plant

mass plantings

shrub border

mixes well with other broadleaf evergreens

useful in shady spots

desirable for spring bloom high quality summer foliage and blue fruit in fall

Watershade Zones - backyard

copy Project SOUND

house

Vegeta

ble

gard

en

walkway

Vegeta

ble

gard

en

N

Many potential lsquoshady fillersrsquo on the list

Woody groundcovers Berberis (Mahonia) aquifolium

var repens Ceanothus gloriosus (and

cultivars)

Ribes viburnifolium

Spireae splendens

Herbaceous groundcovers and perennials Achillea millefolia

Anemopsis californica Aquilegia formosa

Clinopodium (Satureja) douglasii

Mentha arvensis

copy Project SOUND

httpwwwwildgingerfarmcomSpireahtm

copy Project SOUND

Rose Meadowsweet ndash Spiraea splendens

copy2011 Kelsey Byers

862013

16

copy Project SOUND

Rose Meadowsweet ndash Spiraea splendens

copy2001 Carol Mattsson copy2010 Neal Kramer

httpucjepsberkeleyeducgi-binget_cpnpl45211

Central CA north into Canada and extending east into Central Montana

Along streams lakes in moist rocky areas or open subalpine forests elevations between 2000-11000 ft

In Rose Family (Rosaceae) AKA Dense Flowered Spiraea Mountain Spiraea

copy Project SOUND

Rose Meadowsweet sub-shrub or groundcover

Size (depends on conditions) 2-4+ ft tall

3-4+ ft wide

Growth form Many-branched shrub or

sub-shrub

Erect to spreading habit

Winter deciduous red-brown bark is attractive

Foliage Medium green

Simple leaves ndash rounded look like garden plant

copy Project SOUND

Flowers pink

Blooms in summer ndash usually June-July but may be later

Flowers Individual flowers small but

densely packed into mounded clusters at branch ends

Color medium to dark pinkmagenta

Very pretty ndash a garden favorite

Nectar attracts wide range of butterflies

Flowers appear lsquofuzzyrsquo because of extended

stamens (like Phacelias) copy Project SOUND

Plant Requirements Soils

Texture no special needs

pH any local

Light Best flowering in full sun

(with adequate water)

Part-shade also fine give some afternoon shade in hot dry gardens (itrsquos a mountain plant)

Water Winter supplement if

needed

Summer best with moderate watering (Zone 2-3) will take more or less

Other organic mulches help keep soil moisture constant

copy2010 Neal Kramer

862013

17

copy Project SOUND

Rose Meadowsweet

a garden favorite

In woodland garden with others that like a little moisture

As a groundcover under trees

In large containers ndash accent

In a butterfly garden Gary A Monroe USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database

httpwwwnwplantscombusinesscatalogspi_splhtml Photo credit cascade hiker Foter CC BY-NC-SA copy Project SOUND

Western (Red) Columbine ndash Aquilegia formosa

copy Project SOUND

Western (Red) Columbine ndash Aquilegia formosa

httpwwweflorasorgflorataxonaspxflora_id=1amptaxon_id=233500105

Western N America from Baja CA to AK

Locally ndash San Gabriel Mtns

Streambanks seeps moist places chaparral oak woodland mixed-evergreen or coniferous forest to 8000 ft elevation ldquovar hypolasiardquo ldquovar truncatardquo

httpucjepsberkeleyeducgi-binget_JM_treatmentpl643464486450

copy Project SOUND

Characteristics of Western Columbine

Size

2-3 ft tall

2-3 ft wide

Growth form Clumping mounded perennial

Dies back in late summerfall

May be short-lived (3-5 yrs)

Foliage Open rounded leaves are

deeply incised

Delicate appearing

Color medium green to blue-green

Roots used medicinally ndash somewhat toxic

862013

17

copy Project SOUND

Rose Meadowsweet

a garden favorite

In woodland garden with others that like a little moisture

As a groundcover under trees

In large containers ndash accent

In a butterfly garden Gary A Monroe USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database

httpwwwnwplantscombusinesscatalogspi_splhtml Photo credit cascade hiker Foter CC BY-NC-SA copy Project SOUND

Western (Red) Columbine ndash Aquilegia formosa

copy Project SOUND

Western (Red) Columbine ndash Aquilegia formosa

httpwwweflorasorgflorataxonaspxflora_id=1amptaxon_id=233500105

Western N America from Baja CA to AK

Locally ndash San Gabriel Mtns

Streambanks seeps moist places chaparral oak woodland mixed-evergreen or coniferous forest to 8000 ft elevation ldquovar hypolasiardquo ldquovar truncatardquo

httpucjepsberkeleyeducgi-binget_JM_treatmentpl643464486450

copy Project SOUND

Characteristics of Western Columbine

Size

2-3 ft tall

2-3 ft wide

Growth form Clumping mounded perennial

Dies back in late summerfall

May be short-lived (3-5 yrs)

Foliage Open rounded leaves are

deeply incised

Delicate appearing

Color medium green to blue-green

Roots used medicinally ndash somewhat toxic

862013

18

copy Project SOUND

Hummingbird flowers are distinctive

Blooms spring-summer often June-July in local gardens

Flowers Red petals amp sepals yellow

reproductive parts

Shape distinctive to Columbines

Flowers nod on graceful stems

Attract hummingbirds

Seeds Sweetly fragrant can be

used in sachet

Image copy 2004 Ben Legler

copy Project SOUND

Plant Requirements Soils Texture most

pH any local ndash pH 45-80

Light best with some shade Dappled shade under trees

Afternoon shade

Wonrsquot flower well if too shady

Water Winter needs adequate

Summer best with near-regular water ndash Water Zone 2-3 or even 3

Fertilizer none likes poor soils

Other likes leaf mulch

httpwwwelnativogrowerscomPhotographs_pageaquforhtm

copy Project SOUND

Columbines work well

in many gardens

In a shady woodland garden with ferns

Under trees (including oaks if summer-dry)

Combined with other water-loving garden plants

httpwwwpaulnollcomOregonWildflowerplant-Columbine-Redhtml

httpencinitasnativesblogspotcom201304perennial-herbshtml

httpwwwedelbrandbrennereiatpage11php

What do we want around our bench

copy Project SOUND

httpwwwwildgingerfarmcomSpireahtm

httpsjgbloom2012wordpresscom20120620spirea-japonica-alpina-E280A2-alpine-

spirea-3

httpwwwdoakcreeknurserycomimagesAquilegia-formosajpg

httpwwwgrowisernetaquilegia-formosa-western-columbinehtml

httpwwwedelbrandbrennereiatpage11php

httpwwwhouzzcomphotos9

20328Campania-International-

Autumn-Leaves-Cast-Stone-

Backless-Garden-Bench-

contemporary-outdoor-stools-

and-benches-

862013

19

copy Project SOUND

house

Vegeta

ble

gard

en

walkway

Vegeta

ble

gard

en

7 ft

3 ft

10 ft

5 ft

Now to the formal beds size is an issue Letrsquos plan the shady moist south beds first

copy Project SOUND

house

Vegeta

ble

gard

en

walkway

Vegeta

ble

gard

en

Wersquod like to plant a living border the beds

neat appearance ndash but not a lot of work

Plant characteristics

Evergreen (if possible)

Small size - lt 2 ft

Compact mounded form

Interestingcontrasting foliage

Wonrsquot require too much maintenance to keep it looking like a neat border

copy Project SOUND

httpwwwmooseyscountrygardencomchelsea-flower-

showchelsea-flowers-on-show-2html

Two groups of CA native plants stand out

as potential border plants

Heuchera species ndash Coral bells

Some Carex species - Sedges

copy Project SOUND

httpwwwdovetail-designcoukLow_Maintenance

httpwwwanno2000tuinennltuinontwerp-groenadvies-hovenier-

tuinonderhoud-tuinplantendienstenplantadviessiergrassenhtml

862013

20

Island Alumroot ndash Heuchera maxima

httpkristamaxwellcomgardenphotoshtml

Heuchera maxima (tall) sanguinea (dark) amp elegans

Island Alumroot ndash Heuchera maxima

The genus Heuchera 50 species found only in North America amp Mexico 13 in California

Name origin honors JH von Heucher German professor of medicine and botany 1677ndash1747

A very difficult genus highly variable at many levels and needing much additional research

Island Alumroot is found naturally only in the northern Channel Islands

httpucjepsberkeleyeducgi-binget_JM_treatmentplHeuchera+maxima

Island Alumroot in

nature

Moist shady areas in chaparral and coastal sage scrub on N Channel Islands

moist shady north-facing canyon bottoms

Canyon walls Moist cliffs Seacliffs

Low elevations

httpwwwcenterforplantconservationorgASPCPC_ProfileImageaspFN=2240a

Plant characteristics Island Alumroot

Growth form clumping ndash low mounds of leaves on long petioles

Foliage leaves rounded or heart-shaped may be variegated

Roots long taproot ndash more drought tolerant than non-CA species

Flowers late winter-mid-spring

White to light pink Bell-shaped On long stems well above the foliage

862013

21

Island Alumroot

Easy to grow

Sun full sun on the coast part shade anywhere can take quite shady

Soils Any well-drained ndash sandy is best Any pH except very acidic

Nutrients organic supplements mulches are useful

Water Regular water to establish 2-4 times a month (especially in

summer and at inland locations) to keep plants looking green and lengthen bloom

Fairly drought tolerant in shady sites ndash just look a little raggedy with summer drought

Maintenance Mulch Remove dead foliage Divide every 3-5 years ndash when

flowering decreases httpwwwthegardengeekcomcontentheuchera-maxima-giant-heuchera

Heucheras in the garden

Woodland and shade gardens or borders

For cut flowers

Habitat for bees and hummingbirds

As a groundcover in shady parts of the garden including under trees (oaks amp pines)

In pots

To line walkways

Attractive foliage as well as flowers ndash plant where you can enjoy it

And it even re-seeds itself httpwwwelnativogrowerscomPhotographs_pag

eheuchera_maximahtm

Heuchera hybrids

Bred for both foliage and flower color characteristics

Active area in horticulture

Some of best known (and now widely available) were developed by Dr Lee W Lenz at Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Gardens

Heuchera maxima x H sanguinea hybrids

Genevievelsquo ndash large marbled leaves with pink amp white flowers

Opallsquo ndash large green leaves with pale pink-white flowers

Santa Ana Cardinallsquo ndash dark shiny leaves with rose-red flowers

Susannalsquo ndash red flowers Wendy - compact with bright

pink flowers

Heucheras will border the shady moist south beds

copy Project SOUND

house

Vegeta

ble

gard

en

walkway

Vegeta

ble

gard

en

862013

22

Now to fill the beds with something easy

copy Project SOUND

house

Vegeta

ble

gard

en

walkway

Vegeta

ble

gard

en

What to combine with Heuchera border

smaller plants (lt 3 ft) ndash moist shade

Ferns Adiantum

Aquilegia Dryopteris arguta

Low herbaceous groundcovers Fragaria ndash strawberries

Yerba Buena other mints

Whipplea modesta

Other perennials Oxalis oregana

Apocynum cannabinum ndash Indian Hemp

Many others

copy Project SOUND

copy Project SOUND

Modesty ndash Whipplea modesta

copy2004 Steve Matson

AKA Yerba de selva (woodland plant)

Northern CA coast to OR

Whipplea monotypic genus (contains the single species) Whipplea modesta

Family PhiladelphusHydrangeaceae

copy Project SOUND

Modesty ndash Whipplea modesta

copy2012 Gary A Monroe

Gary A Monroe USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database

862013

23

The Hydrangeas - Family Hydrangeaceae

~ 115 species 10-12 genera

Some taxonomist include closely related Philadephus amp Carpenteria others separate out these into Philadelphaceae (Mock Orange family)

Widespread North temperate and subtropical ndash Asia N America amp Europe Andes from Mexico to Chile

Includes shrubs perennials and vines

Common garden plants Hydrangea Broussaisia (Hawaii)

copy Project SOUND

httpmsl-methods-09-

10wikispacescomHydrangea+macrophylla++(Tara+Hill)

Hydrangea macrophylla

common garden plant - Japan

httpwwwbotanyhawaiiedufacultycarrimagesbro_arg_midjpg copy Project SOUND

Modesty is in many respects modest

Size lt 1 ft tall

3-4+ ft wide

Growth form Varies with conditions

perennial herb to shrub or vine usually groundcover-like

Partly-herbaceous evergreen with water

Many-branched will root

Foliage Simple leaves aromatic

Attractive in itrsquos simplicity ndash complements other plants

copy2009 Terry Dye

copy2004 Steve Matson

copy Project SOUND

Sweet little flowers

Blooms in spring - usually in May-June in our area

Flowers Small white flowers

In clusters at ends of erect stems

Plants can be literally covered in blooms ndash very unusual for native groundcover

Fruits leathery capsule eaten by birds

Vegetative reproduction

copy2004 Steve Matson copy Project SOUND

Plant Requirements Soils Texture likes well-drained

but not really picky

pH any local

Light Part-shade to quite shady

Dappled sunlight under trees

Water Winter adequate

Summer needs some water to look good ndash Water Zone 2-3 would be good

Fertilizer none likes poor soils would accept light fertilizer

Other organic mulch

copy2013 Larry Beckerman

862013

21

Island Alumroot

Easy to grow

Sun full sun on the coast part shade anywhere can take quite shady

Soils Any well-drained ndash sandy is best Any pH except very acidic

Nutrients organic supplements mulches are useful

Water Regular water to establish 2-4 times a month (especially in

summer and at inland locations) to keep plants looking green and lengthen bloom

Fairly drought tolerant in shady sites ndash just look a little raggedy with summer drought

Maintenance Mulch Remove dead foliage Divide every 3-5 years ndash when

flowering decreases httpwwwthegardengeekcomcontentheuchera-maxima-giant-heuchera

Heucheras in the garden

Woodland and shade gardens or borders

For cut flowers

Habitat for bees and hummingbirds

As a groundcover in shady parts of the garden including under trees (oaks amp pines)

In pots

To line walkways

Attractive foliage as well as flowers ndash plant where you can enjoy it

And it even re-seeds itself httpwwwelnativogrowerscomPhotographs_pag

eheuchera_maximahtm

Heuchera hybrids

Bred for both foliage and flower color characteristics

Active area in horticulture

Some of best known (and now widely available) were developed by Dr Lee W Lenz at Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Gardens

Heuchera maxima x H sanguinea hybrids

Genevievelsquo ndash large marbled leaves with pink amp white flowers

Opallsquo ndash large green leaves with pale pink-white flowers

Santa Ana Cardinallsquo ndash dark shiny leaves with rose-red flowers

Susannalsquo ndash red flowers Wendy - compact with bright

pink flowers

Heucheras will border the shady moist south beds

copy Project SOUND

house

Vegeta

ble

gard

en

walkway

Vegeta

ble

gard

en

862013

22

Now to fill the beds with something easy

copy Project SOUND

house

Vegeta

ble

gard

en

walkway

Vegeta

ble

gard

en

What to combine with Heuchera border

smaller plants (lt 3 ft) ndash moist shade

Ferns Adiantum

Aquilegia Dryopteris arguta

Low herbaceous groundcovers Fragaria ndash strawberries

Yerba Buena other mints

Whipplea modesta

Other perennials Oxalis oregana

Apocynum cannabinum ndash Indian Hemp

Many others

copy Project SOUND

copy Project SOUND

Modesty ndash Whipplea modesta

copy2004 Steve Matson

AKA Yerba de selva (woodland plant)

Northern CA coast to OR

Whipplea monotypic genus (contains the single species) Whipplea modesta

Family PhiladelphusHydrangeaceae

copy Project SOUND

Modesty ndash Whipplea modesta

copy2012 Gary A Monroe

Gary A Monroe USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database

862013

23

The Hydrangeas - Family Hydrangeaceae

~ 115 species 10-12 genera

Some taxonomist include closely related Philadephus amp Carpenteria others separate out these into Philadelphaceae (Mock Orange family)

Widespread North temperate and subtropical ndash Asia N America amp Europe Andes from Mexico to Chile

Includes shrubs perennials and vines

Common garden plants Hydrangea Broussaisia (Hawaii)

copy Project SOUND

httpmsl-methods-09-

10wikispacescomHydrangea+macrophylla++(Tara+Hill)

Hydrangea macrophylla

common garden plant - Japan

httpwwwbotanyhawaiiedufacultycarrimagesbro_arg_midjpg copy Project SOUND

Modesty is in many respects modest

Size lt 1 ft tall

3-4+ ft wide

Growth form Varies with conditions

perennial herb to shrub or vine usually groundcover-like

Partly-herbaceous evergreen with water

Many-branched will root

Foliage Simple leaves aromatic

Attractive in itrsquos simplicity ndash complements other plants

copy2009 Terry Dye

copy2004 Steve Matson

copy Project SOUND

Sweet little flowers

Blooms in spring - usually in May-June in our area

Flowers Small white flowers

In clusters at ends of erect stems

Plants can be literally covered in blooms ndash very unusual for native groundcover

Fruits leathery capsule eaten by birds

Vegetative reproduction

copy2004 Steve Matson copy Project SOUND

Plant Requirements Soils Texture likes well-drained

but not really picky

pH any local

Light Part-shade to quite shady

Dappled sunlight under trees

Water Winter adequate

Summer needs some water to look good ndash Water Zone 2-3 would be good

Fertilizer none likes poor soils would accept light fertilizer

Other organic mulch

copy2013 Larry Beckerman

862013

22

Now to fill the beds with something easy

copy Project SOUND

house

Vegeta

ble

gard

en

walkway

Vegeta

ble

gard

en

What to combine with Heuchera border

smaller plants (lt 3 ft) ndash moist shade

Ferns Adiantum

Aquilegia Dryopteris arguta

Low herbaceous groundcovers Fragaria ndash strawberries

Yerba Buena other mints

Whipplea modesta

Other perennials Oxalis oregana

Apocynum cannabinum ndash Indian Hemp

Many others

copy Project SOUND

copy Project SOUND

Modesty ndash Whipplea modesta

copy2004 Steve Matson

AKA Yerba de selva (woodland plant)

Northern CA coast to OR

Whipplea monotypic genus (contains the single species) Whipplea modesta

Family PhiladelphusHydrangeaceae

copy Project SOUND

Modesty ndash Whipplea modesta

copy2012 Gary A Monroe

Gary A Monroe USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database

862013

23

The Hydrangeas - Family Hydrangeaceae

~ 115 species 10-12 genera

Some taxonomist include closely related Philadephus amp Carpenteria others separate out these into Philadelphaceae (Mock Orange family)

Widespread North temperate and subtropical ndash Asia N America amp Europe Andes from Mexico to Chile

Includes shrubs perennials and vines

Common garden plants Hydrangea Broussaisia (Hawaii)

copy Project SOUND

httpmsl-methods-09-

10wikispacescomHydrangea+macrophylla++(Tara+Hill)

Hydrangea macrophylla

common garden plant - Japan

httpwwwbotanyhawaiiedufacultycarrimagesbro_arg_midjpg copy Project SOUND

Modesty is in many respects modest

Size lt 1 ft tall

3-4+ ft wide

Growth form Varies with conditions

perennial herb to shrub or vine usually groundcover-like

Partly-herbaceous evergreen with water

Many-branched will root

Foliage Simple leaves aromatic

Attractive in itrsquos simplicity ndash complements other plants

copy2009 Terry Dye

copy2004 Steve Matson

copy Project SOUND

Sweet little flowers

Blooms in spring - usually in May-June in our area

Flowers Small white flowers

In clusters at ends of erect stems

Plants can be literally covered in blooms ndash very unusual for native groundcover

Fruits leathery capsule eaten by birds

Vegetative reproduction

copy2004 Steve Matson copy Project SOUND

Plant Requirements Soils Texture likes well-drained

but not really picky

pH any local

Light Part-shade to quite shady

Dappled sunlight under trees

Water Winter adequate

Summer needs some water to look good ndash Water Zone 2-3 would be good

Fertilizer none likes poor soils would accept light fertilizer

Other organic mulch

copy2013 Larry Beckerman

862013

23

The Hydrangeas - Family Hydrangeaceae

~ 115 species 10-12 genera

Some taxonomist include closely related Philadephus amp Carpenteria others separate out these into Philadelphaceae (Mock Orange family)

Widespread North temperate and subtropical ndash Asia N America amp Europe Andes from Mexico to Chile

Includes shrubs perennials and vines

Common garden plants Hydrangea Broussaisia (Hawaii)

copy Project SOUND

httpmsl-methods-09-

10wikispacescomHydrangea+macrophylla++(Tara+Hill)

Hydrangea macrophylla

common garden plant - Japan

httpwwwbotanyhawaiiedufacultycarrimagesbro_arg_midjpg copy Project SOUND

Modesty is in many respects modest

Size lt 1 ft tall

3-4+ ft wide

Growth form Varies with conditions

perennial herb to shrub or vine usually groundcover-like

Partly-herbaceous evergreen with water

Many-branched will root

Foliage Simple leaves aromatic

Attractive in itrsquos simplicity ndash complements other plants

copy2009 Terry Dye

copy2004 Steve Matson

copy Project SOUND

Sweet little flowers

Blooms in spring - usually in May-June in our area

Flowers Small white flowers

In clusters at ends of erect stems

Plants can be literally covered in blooms ndash very unusual for native groundcover

Fruits leathery capsule eaten by birds

Vegetative reproduction

copy2004 Steve Matson copy Project SOUND

Plant Requirements Soils Texture likes well-drained

but not really picky

pH any local

Light Part-shade to quite shady

Dappled sunlight under trees

Water Winter adequate

Summer needs some water to look good ndash Water Zone 2-3 would be good

Fertilizer none likes poor soils would accept light fertilizer

Other organic mulch

copy2013 Larry Beckerman

862013

24

copy Project SOUND

Modesty is charming

On slopes good stabilizer

Under trees other shady areas

Pair with Heucheras ferns Douglas Iris Yerba Buena

As an attractive pot plant

copy2011 Dylan Neubauer

httpwwwbaynativescomplantsWhipplea-modesta

On to the sunny northern beds

copy Project SOUND

house

Vegeta

ble

gard

en

walkway

Vegeta

ble

gard

en

copy Project SOUND

Brown Rusty Sedge ndash Carex subfusca

copy2006 Steve Matson

Western US usually mountains in California

Locally ndash San Gabriels

Seasonally moist mountain meadows along watercourses lt 12000 ft

Pine forests Southern Oak Woodland Foothill Woodland

copy Project SOUND

Brown Sedge ndash Carex subfusca

httpwwweflorasorgflorataxonaspx

flora_id=1amptaxon_id=242357566

httpucjepsberkeleyeducgi-binget_JM_treatmentpl792879318065 httpwwwforestryimagesorgbrowsesubthumbcfmsub=26803

862013

25

copy Project SOUND

Brown Sedge is an attractive Carex

Size lt 1 ft tall

2-4+ ft wide spreading

Growth form Spreading ndash lsquosod-formingrsquo

sedge

Fast-growing

Becomes like a natural lawn

Foliage Fine textured grass-like

Roots Spreads via rhizomes

copy2006 Steve Matson

Sedges two main types

Bunching sedges Remain as a mounded clump ndash like a

bunch grass

Have very shortno rhizomes

Expand slowly

Runningsod-like sedges Spread ndash like sod often quickly

Become like a sod lawn

copy Project SOUND httpsearchlinderscom12070003Plant4425Grays_Sedge

httprwawatersavingplantscomeplantphpplantnum=174ampreturn=l1

httpvinesandgroundcoversblogspotcom201202carex-

pansahtml

Carex tumulticola

Carex pansa

copy Project SOUND

Showy among sedges

Blooms spring ndash when weather is warm

Flowers Typical wind-pollinated flowers

of sedges

At tips of stems

Seeds Large turn red-brown and are

quite attractive

Eaten by water birds

copy2011 Dylan Neubauer

USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database Hurd EG NL Shaw J Mastrogiuseppe LC Smithman and S Goodrich 1998

Field guide to Intermountain sedges General Technical Report RMS-GTR-10 USDA Forest Service RMRS Ogden copy Project SOUND

Brown sedge is easy

to grow Soils

Texture any

pH any local

Light Full sun to part-shade

adaptable

Water Winter can take flooding

Summer adaptable very drought tolerant in shade Looks best with moderate water in summer

Fertilizer none likes poor soils

Other spreads may need to contain

copy2006 Steve Matson

862013

26

copy Project SOUND

Versatile Brown Sedge

In rain gardens dry swales

As an easy-care lawn substitute

Around ponds pools

Under trees

httpwwwsmgrowerscomproductsplantsplantdisplayaspplant_id=2329

httpwwwbloomingadvantagecomCa

rex-subfuscahtml

httpjanuccnaueduplants-

cbio414species20pagesCarex20sphtm httpwwwsmwatersavingplantscomeplantphpplantnum=24602ampr

eturn=l6_aK

Berkeley Sedge ndash Carex tumulticola

copy Project SOUND

Consider size and growth characteristics before choosing a plant

Finally we can use some water-wise

Zone 2 plants as fillers

Wide selection to choose from Shrubs

Sub-shrubs

Perennials

Ferns

Grassesgrass-like plants CA Fuschia ndash Epilobium canum

Ashy-leaf Buckwheat California Marshlavender Limonium californicum

Lilac Verbena copy Project SOUND

Lilac (Cedros Island) Verbena ndash Verbena

lilacena

862013

27

copy Project SOUND

Lilac (Cedros Island) Verbena ndash Verbena

lilacena

Found only on Cedros Island off Baja CA (an lsquoisland endemicrsquo)

In the wild grows in canyons and on coastal bluffs in an ocean-influenced desert scrubland

This island has many interesting plant amp animal species

httpwwwsearchcomreferenceCedros_Island

copy Project SOUND

Lilac Verbena is well suited to the home

garden

Size 2-4 ft tall 3-5 ft wide

Growth form Perennial sub-shrub (small partly

woody partly herbaceous) Mounded and slightly spreading Yearly pruning can keep it very neat

looking

Foliage Attractive gray-green color Lacy leaves Evergreen with water drought

deciduous

Roots net-like

Fortunately Lilac Verbena does

well in many S CA gardens

copy Project SOUND

What will really attract you is the showy

flowers

Blooms usually April- Sept in S Bay Long bloom season flowers open

sequentially along the stalk

Flowers Lilac to pinkish Tiny many on each flowering stalk Held above the foliage Spicy-fragrant Attract butterflies like a magnet

Seeds Small in papery capsule Birds eat them

httpwwwcalfloranetlosangelesarboretumwhatsbloomingjan

07htmlverbena_lilacina

copy Project SOUND

Lilac Verbena enjoys a wide range of

garden conditions

Soils Texture any but clay pH any local

Light full sun best in most gardens part shade is ok

Water Winter normal for season donrsquot let

it get water-logged

Summer Tolerates anything from very little

to regular water Probably does best with infrequent

(every 2-4 weeks) deep water ndash will keep it green amp blooming

Fertilizer none needed

Other does best in areas with good air circulation

Light summer pruning will encourage

fullness prune to shape and remove

spent blooms in fall ndash if un-pruned it

will become woody

862013

28

copy Project SOUND

Uses in the garden Makes a great container plant

A must for butterfly gardens ndash be sure to plant where you can enjoy them

In mixed beds look nice even when not in bloom

Good for gardens with either red or blue color schemes

Excellent bank cover or massed as a tall groundcover

Perfect small-scale foundation plant

Even looks magnificent in hanging baskets

Verbena lilacina De La Mina is a

readily-available cultivar with darker

flowers amp slightly larger size

Final Garden Plan - backyard

copy Project SOUND

house

Vegeta

ble

gard

en

walkway

Vegeta

ble

gard

en

Wersquove taken a backyard that was mostly lawn

copy Project SOUND

Base map - backyard

copy Project SOUND

house

Vegeta

ble

gard

en

Vegeta

ble

gard

en walkway

Water Zone 3

862013

27

copy Project SOUND

Lilac (Cedros Island) Verbena ndash Verbena

lilacena

Found only on Cedros Island off Baja CA (an lsquoisland endemicrsquo)

In the wild grows in canyons and on coastal bluffs in an ocean-influenced desert scrubland

This island has many interesting plant amp animal species

httpwwwsearchcomreferenceCedros_Island

copy Project SOUND

Lilac Verbena is well suited to the home

garden

Size 2-4 ft tall 3-5 ft wide

Growth form Perennial sub-shrub (small partly

woody partly herbaceous) Mounded and slightly spreading Yearly pruning can keep it very neat

looking

Foliage Attractive gray-green color Lacy leaves Evergreen with water drought

deciduous

Roots net-like

Fortunately Lilac Verbena does

well in many S CA gardens

copy Project SOUND

What will really attract you is the showy

flowers

Blooms usually April- Sept in S Bay Long bloom season flowers open

sequentially along the stalk

Flowers Lilac to pinkish Tiny many on each flowering stalk Held above the foliage Spicy-fragrant Attract butterflies like a magnet

Seeds Small in papery capsule Birds eat them

httpwwwcalfloranetlosangelesarboretumwhatsbloomingjan

07htmlverbena_lilacina

copy Project SOUND

Lilac Verbena enjoys a wide range of

garden conditions

Soils Texture any but clay pH any local

Light full sun best in most gardens part shade is ok

Water Winter normal for season donrsquot let

it get water-logged

Summer Tolerates anything from very little

to regular water Probably does best with infrequent

(every 2-4 weeks) deep water ndash will keep it green amp blooming

Fertilizer none needed

Other does best in areas with good air circulation

Light summer pruning will encourage

fullness prune to shape and remove

spent blooms in fall ndash if un-pruned it

will become woody

862013

28

copy Project SOUND

Uses in the garden Makes a great container plant

A must for butterfly gardens ndash be sure to plant where you can enjoy them

In mixed beds look nice even when not in bloom

Good for gardens with either red or blue color schemes

Excellent bank cover or massed as a tall groundcover

Perfect small-scale foundation plant

Even looks magnificent in hanging baskets

Verbena lilacina De La Mina is a

readily-available cultivar with darker

flowers amp slightly larger size

Final Garden Plan - backyard

copy Project SOUND

house

Vegeta

ble

gard

en

walkway

Vegeta

ble

gard

en

Wersquove taken a backyard that was mostly lawn

copy Project SOUND

Base map - backyard

copy Project SOUND

house

Vegeta

ble

gard

en

Vegeta

ble

gard

en walkway

Water Zone 3

862013

28

copy Project SOUND

Uses in the garden Makes a great container plant

A must for butterfly gardens ndash be sure to plant where you can enjoy them

In mixed beds look nice even when not in bloom

Good for gardens with either red or blue color schemes

Excellent bank cover or massed as a tall groundcover

Perfect small-scale foundation plant

Even looks magnificent in hanging baskets

Verbena lilacina De La Mina is a

readily-available cultivar with darker

flowers amp slightly larger size

Final Garden Plan - backyard

copy Project SOUND

house

Vegeta

ble

gard

en

walkway

Vegeta

ble

gard

en

Wersquove taken a backyard that was mostly lawn

copy Project SOUND

Base map - backyard

copy Project SOUND

house

Vegeta

ble

gard

en

Vegeta

ble

gard

en walkway

Water Zone 3

862013

29

And added some water-wise Water Zones

copy Project SOUND

house

Vegeta

ble

gard

en

walkway

Vegeta

ble

gard

en

Wersquove learned how to choose plants that can

tolerate a little extra water (Water Zone 2-3)

Look to plants from

Central and Northern CA particularly coastal areas

Higher elevations ndash particularly local mountains

Riparian wetland areas

Cultivars ndash particularly those from lsquomoister than usualrsquo areas

Plants that have a broad range of water tolerance

copy Project SOUND

httpwwwvirtualtouristcomtravelNorth_AmericaUnited_States_of_AmericaCaliforniaSan_

Francisco-755471Things_To_Do-San_Francisco-Point_Reyes_National_Seashore-BR-1html

Plants with a broad range of water tolerance

have a better chance of thrivinghellip

copy Project SOUND

house

Vegeta

ble

gard

en

walkway

Vegeta

ble

gard

en

hellipin complex irrigation

situations like this

Fortunately many CA native plants are

more adaptable than we first thoughthellip

httpsnwwildflowerswordpresscomtagspiraea-splendens

httpwwwresearchlearningcenterorgbloomspeciesDryopteris_argutahtm

862013

30

hellipbut Water Zone gardening makes gardens sustainable

copy Project SOUND

house

Vegeta

ble

gard

en

walkway

Vegeta

ble

gard

en

Wersquove considered ways to make the garden

even more water efficient

copy Project SOUND

house

Vegeta

ble

gard

en

walkway

Vegeta

ble

gard

en

walkway

Wersquove created a more water-wise solution

copy Project SOUND

house

Vegeta

ble

gard

en

walkway

Vegeta

ble

gard

en

That meets the goals we set for ourselves

copy Project SOUND

house

Vegeta

ble

gard

en

walkway

Vegeta

ble

gard

en

Swaths of grass ndash part of design

Formal look curved shapes

Tree(s) provide shade

Large shrubs as screen rest of plants are smaller

Plants form borders for beds

Seatingdining area (8 ft)

862013

31

copy Project SOUND

Letrsquos get going ndash out with the old lawn

862013

31

copy Project SOUND

Letrsquos get going ndash out with the old lawn