Whether you live in a small bungalow, an adobe home or a ranch-style house, any of these native drought-tolerant ground covers would benefit your home and … The good news? From desert willows, to California sagebrush, to lavender, to manzanita, to California fan palms, there are endless possibilities for every color palette and style. She was born and raised just outside the Mojave Desert in Southern California and moved to the redwood forests of Humboldt C…, Great info, Rachel. Silver artemisias, also known as Silver King, can grow from two to four feet tall. Drought-Resistant Plants for the Bay Area. Wooly thyme (zones 4-7): A drought-tolerant groundcover that’s also an herb; Stonecrop* (zones 4-11): A tough perennial with dusty-hued blooms; Yarrow* (zones 3-10): A drought-tolerant plant with bright flowers that attract pollinators. This flowering vine is native to the Mediterranean region and can thrive in part or full shade in Southern California. , takes advantage of the moderate California temperatures, and features drought-resistant plants can prove to be more challenging than originally imagined. ground cover, click here), (Two Perennial ground covers beautify, conserve soil moisture and help prevent erosion. If low-maintenance landscaping sounds more doable than intensive-care gardens, avoid invasive species of native or drought-tolerant plants such as the popular pampas grass and the ultra-colorful periwinkle. 2’h x 4’w California Redbud 8 Cercis occidentalis An interesting plant year round, with beautiful pea-shaped magenta flowers on leafless stems in the spring, followed by interesting seedpods and heart-shaped blue-green leaves. Vitis californica (California Wild Grape) Turf. Create an entire garden of drought-tolerant California ... on an arbor, or as a mounding ground cover. Choose fire-retardant plant species that resist ignition such as rockrose, ice plant … The potential for Ruschia lineolata Nana's use in drought-tolerant landscaping was recently discovered by established DLT Growers based out of Southern California. The low-growing Southwestern favorites below attract native pollinators, such as birds and bees, and keep weeds to a minimum underneath their outreaching stems. Silver Artemisias. Gazanias are native to the southern part of the African continent and have proven to be a good choice for use as a drought-tolerant ground cover for sun in Southern California. Species that do particularly well in California’s diverse regions include the following. Here is a list of some top choices for drought-tolerant trees and shrubs for Northern and Southern California … The potential for Ruschia lineolata Nana's use in drought-tolerant landscaping was recently discovered by established DLT Growers based out of Southern California. If you need help creating the garden you’ve always wanted or caring for your new plant babies, check out. Golden oregano This golden yellow oregano, which sends up clusters of mauve flowers in summer, grows in low, creeping mounds and makes a striking … We respect your privacy and promise to never sell or share your personal information with third parties. You should also consider the amount of work you are willing to dedicate to the garden. The good news is, you don’t need a lot of money to make your landscape fire resistant. If you’re not already establishing your drought-tolerant garden, learn why you should start now by reading this blog post on fall gardening. Kurapia is a NEW drought tolerant and low maintenance turf alternative natural ground cover sod in California, Arizona and Nevada. So, while there are approximately 8,000 plants that would be appropriate for a Southern California garden, every species has a different requirement for sun exposure, significantly narrowing down the options for each area of the yard. Drought tolerant plants, xeriscape, water wise gardens are the gardening vocabulary that we are likely to see for some time to come, particularly in Southern California. Low growing junipers, mahonias and germander (Teucrium chamaedrys) are low-maintenance, drought-tolerant ground covers. foot and above Now the Los Angeles business boasts more than 535 full-time workers and has replaced millions of square feet of grass lawns with water-saving ground cover and drought-tolerant plants. The good news? Top 3 Low-Growing Ground Covers for Water Restrictions? Sedge gives the look of lawn without the constant mowing or watering. Kurapia. Coneflower* (zones 3-9): An easy, drought-tolerant perennial that pollinators love. The low-maintenance garden requires only a weekly leaf pruning and annual cutting back of grasses. As communities across the world and in California mitigate health risks during the COVID-19 pandemic, we are shifting our content focus and will not encourage any travel or social activities during this time. His company has designed over 700 native landscapes in Southern California. Zones 4-9 are where it grows best. … Kurapia is a NEW drought tolerant and low maintenance turf alternative natural ground cover sod in California, Arizona and Nevada. Discover the best of California. The deciding factor in your plant placement (aside from pure aesthetics) ought to be the amount of sunlight necessary to grow your chosen species. 'UC Verde … When it comes to drought-tolerant landscaping, the desert soils of Southern California, coastal ridges of the Central Coast, forested canopies of Northern California, and varied terrain in between welcome a host of unique and vibrant plant species that are up for the challenge posed by our state’s diverse ecosystem. Each region of the Golden State has its own unique characteristics—ranging from coastal bluffs, to arid deserts, to redwood forests. Haplopappus squarrosus a small bushy plant covered with clusters of yellow flowers that takes lots of heat and drought in inland areas. These are heat tolerant, drought resistant and cold hardy up to 20°F (-6.67°C) making them a good choice as ground cover for small and large spaces. It does self-seed and can be allowed to spread to create a ground cover with a natural wildflower look. Lots of color for long season. Sedum spurium also trails nicely over rock walls and bedding edges. It only rains an average of 34 days a year in Southern California, so any grass you decide on is going to have to be drought-resistant if there’s a lack of water available. Many traditional nurseries offer plants that are native to a local area (or try this online … “It loves the Southern California ... make soft and showy low ground covers ... creeping mounds and makes a striking edging for flower or vegetable beds or a ground cover. The University of California Yolo County Cooperative Extension notes that both varieties are drought tolerant. The most important decision when designing a drought-tolerant yard is selecting plants that are able to endure California’s blistering summer temperatures and that require little water for half of the year once they are planted. Species like lavender and some varieties of lilies, for instance, are both drought tolerant and welcoming to hummingbirds and other local inhabitants that help to pollinate the flowers throughout the entire garden. California Native Plants are all we grow! Learn more about our selection criteria and vetting process. – lush, gray-green foliage and colorful blooms of various shades of … Canyon … Landscapers are increasingly turning to drought-tolerant landscaping as a way to preserve resources and save costs. 1-949-498-1131 ... Drought Tolerant Evergreen ... We provide affordable, real lawn solutions aimed specifically at California's climate. Lots of color, needs some replacements, Best not around other plants. Do you like what we're doing with the pages? Height: 3 to 6 inches. Whether you’re heading on a weekend getaway or moving into a new home, these are the best ways to pack …. Since there is a limited amount of water that can be extracted from our watersheds before significant environmental consequences are obvious … Juniperus horizontalis is often used for erosion control. Environment & Science The 13 best Calif. native drought-tolerant plants for your garden Tidy Tips are spring annuals with yellow and white daisy-like flowers on top of long stalks. It can be seen on hillsides throughout southern California, especially at the coast. Hydro-zoning refers to planting groups of species together in certain areas of the garden based on their water needs. It's easy to grow a gorgeous garden in Southern California if you pick the right plants. examples of California native and drought tolerant plants that have been selected specifi-cally for the conditions of the Malibu/Topan-ga/Marina del Rey area. California Lawn Alternatives ships plugs of 'UC Verde' Buffalo Grass, 'Kurapia' ground cover, and Ruschia 'Nana' succulent. Berkeley sedge (Carex divulsa) does well in California. Once established, it requires less maintenance and needs less water than cool and warm season turfgrasses. Canyon Hydroseeding is committed to doing all we can to support California’s water conservation initiatives by reducing water waste, reusing water when possible, conserving water in our hydroseeding services. When in doubt during your plant search, look for the signature characteristics for Mediterranean-climate plants: thick foliage, trichomes (or tiny hairs on the leaves), and secreted oils that trap moisture. The glossy, green leaves and beautiful, periwinkle flowers of Vinca major might make you think it requires regular irrigation, but this is actually a quite drought-tolerant ground cover. Here's a list of our favorite groundcovers for Southern California. ASK US ABOUT DROUGHT TOLERANT TRIPLE CROWN TALL FESCUE! By clicking subscribe, you are verifying this is your information and in response to your request, you consent to receive communications (email, telephone, or text) including via automated technology and/or prerecorded calls or messages to the number provided. You should also consider the amount of work you are willing to dedicate to the garden. Stay up-to-date on California's top destinations and experiences, and be the first to hear about special California.com giveaways and events. Here’s a way to cover a large expanse without a large expense, I think this is the least expensive strategy. Check your inbox soon for the latest from. After propagating the plant and testing samples it became clear that this plant is simply the best living choice for water conscious landscapers and homeowners. Medium-Low water needs. 10 Drought-Tolerant Plants for the Central Coast Ever since Governor Jerry Brown announced his plans to mandate water restrictions in California, our phone has been ringing off the hook with people wanting to replace their lawns with drought-tolerant plants and natives. Here is a list of some top choices for drought-tolerant trees and shrubs for Northern and Southern California for front yard landscaping, public areas, and … First, I recommend sedge, whatever kind is native to or adapted to your region. Landscapers are increasingly turning to drought-tolerant landscaping as a way to preserve resources and save costs. Despite its delicate appearance, angelita daisy is quite tough and thrives in full sun. Otherwise, you’ll have dormant or dead grass pop up – not a good look for your lawn at all. If the amount of maintenance needed is not a determining factor for your landscape, consider picking plants that are native to California or regions with Mediterranean climates. foot While choosing solely. While choosing solely drought-resistant plants may accomplish the primary goal, many grasses and shrubs require continual maintenance to avoid creating a jungle in the yard. Make sure to use deep rooted shrubs and trees along with the more shallow rooted ground covers. Drought Tolerant Ground Covers for Sun. Once established, it requires less maintenance and needs less water than cool and warm season turfgrasses. Drought tolerant plants, xeriscape, water wise gardens are the gardening vocabulary that we are likely to see for some time to come, particularly in Southern California. Texas sedge (Carex texensis) works for the Southern Plains. One of the most pressing current needs of gardeners is a drought- and-wear-resistant ground cover to take the place of a lawn, especially for people who have dogs or children who love to run and play and can wear out many kinds of ground covers. Deciduous, with yellow or red fall foliage on multi-branching stems. cohesive outdoor space that complements your patio. Looking for a low maintenance way to cover a large swath of ground? Looking for ground cover options for your yard? Drought Tolerant Plants for Slopes When choosing plants for your slope, erosion control and slope stabilization are primary concerns. With so many drought-resistant plant options, the gardening possibilities are endless. From desert willows, to California sagebrush, to lavender, to manzanita, to California fan palms, there are endless possibilities for every color palette and style. Unfortunately most drought-tolerant plants commonly found in nurseries come from areas outside of California, such as Arizona, South Africa or Australia. Low ground cover plants compete poorly with weeds. Acacia redolens ‘Desert Carpet’ (Dwarf Prostrate Acacia) Achillea species (Yarrow) Baccharis species (Coyote Brush) Cotoneaster dammeri (Bearberry Cotoneaster) Matilija poppies, Australian willows, wild buckwheat, sagebrush, and bougainvillea are popular choices that offer pops of color and plenty of variety—without sacrificing drought tolerance. Creating a drought-resistant landscape is a multi-step process, so try not to get discouraged if the yard of your dreams takes a bit longer than you expected. , consider picking plants that are native to California or regions with Mediterranean climates. Check your inbox soon for the latest from California.com. It does well in full sun and well-drained soil. Will… With the increasing frequency of wildfires in California, the need to conserve water is even more critical. Ivy is a popular … A few Southern California favorites – Hibiscus, Foxglove, and English Ivy – made the list. Reply, Fill your home with the luscious, relaxing scents of aromatic candles from the best candle companies in California....Read more, Find out where you can buy Kwanzaa decorations and learn how to make Kwanzaa wreaths, Kwanzaa door decor, table displays, …...Read more, From holiday wreath ideas to customizable holiday ornaments, these DIY holiday decorations will inspire you to deck the halls....Read more, Whether you’re heading on a weekend getaway or moving into a new home, these are the best ways to pack …...Read more, Join Our VIP List Grow it on a trellis, on an arbor, or as a mounding ground cover. Rivers of gravel can oscillate between the bunches of golden yarrow, tufts of drought-tolerant deer grass, and rigid stalks of desert agave as rosemary cascades over the edges of raised beds and California poppies brighten up every corner of the yard. If the amount of maintenance needed is not a determining factor for your. Plus, deciding upon unique landscaping that includes native plants as well as drought-adapted plants for California takes time due to the vast number of options available. Above: The home is designed around a single great room. Top 3 Low-Growing Ground Covers for Water Restrictions? may accomplish the primary goal, many grasses and shrubs require continual maintenance to avoid creating a jungle in the yard. ground cover, click here. If you’re ready to start your garden, but don’t know what to plant, this post is for you. Zones: 3 to 9. Juniperus horizontalis grows in USDA plant hardiness zones 4 through 10. This sun-loving ground cover is a great alternative to myoporum for those desiring fast growth. To view lower plants that can be used as ground covers, click here, for two feet or higher click here or check out Slopes. Where it will grow: Hardy to minus 20 degrees Fahrenheit, or minus 28.9 degrees Celsius (Zone 5) Water requirement: Low Light requirement: Full sun We will also be providing tips and resources specifically related to the COVID-19 pandemic safety measures in the coming weeks. Moss phlox. We will, however, continue to shine a light on and celebrate the many beautiful aspects of our State with the intention of being a source of inspiration and joy during this difficult period. Read Fran's Blog to Learn More About Using Creeping Perennials and Ground Covers Eschscholzia californica, California poppy makes a great fill in for a ground cover providing dramatic color in spring and summer for a green slope or expanse. Pictures and helpful information about each plant are featured to help meet your landscaping needs and make for a quick, easy transition to a native and drought tolerant plant garden. California Yarrow (Achillea millefolium californica) A small perennial with cream-colored or off-white … But creating a cohesive outdoor space that complements your patio, takes advantage of the moderate California temperatures, and features drought-resistant plants can prove to be more challenging than originally imagined. You understand that your consent is not a condition of purchase. Zones 8 through 11. Above: Dymondia, a drought-tolerant ground cover, is planted as “grout” between large paver slabs. Easily handle curbside planting nightmares, create beautiful foundation plantings around your house or cover a barren hillside to control erosion. 717147) who has been working with California native plants since 1985. , with yellow or red fall foliage on multi-branching stems coming weeks landscape with drought plants... Lawn solutions aimed specifically at California 's top destinations and experiences, and be the first step in creating sustainable. Yellow-Tinged one like Mother Lode, it creates a 6″ carpet homeowners money becomes less and... Stays in bloom throughout the summer same aesthetic larger areas or where you want drought. Inches tall and learn how to make your landscape fire resistant ask us about drought tolerant learn why should... Once established, it requires less maintenance and needs less water than cool and warm season turfgrasses California... That a fire-resistant landscape can increase your property value and conserve water while beautifying your.., consider a “California-friendly” landscape with drought tolerant plants Midwest and Northeast garden. A multi-step process, so try not to get discouraged if the yard of your dreams a. Foundation plantings around your house or cover a large swath of ground Manzanita, Silver carpet is a limited of. To spread to create a ground cover the first step in creating “drought-!: Rockrose ( Cistus spp. we provide affordable, real lawn solutions aimed specifically California... Plants are you loving right now grasses and shrubs require continual maintenance to creating... The increasing frequency of wildfires in California ’ s own native landscape,! This not only allows the plants have adapted to your region at California top! Thrives in high heat and a little drought tolerant ground cover southern california choices on this list and grows. Fast growth fescues specifically selected for California many options including Lantana, Bottlebrush, Trailing rosemary and more sterile non-seeding... Of wildfires in California drought tolerant alternatives that will help you achieve a more version... Deck the halls ( Cistus spp. sun and well-drained soil and learn how to make Kwanzaa wreaths, door... Fall foliage on multi-branching stems us about drought tolerant TRIPLE CROWN is a landscape! Heat resistant, and be the first step in creating a “drought- tolerant” garden is to garden with that... Get discouraged if the amount of water that can be found throughout California luscious. Lantana, Bottlebrush, Trailing rosemary and more native landscapes in Southern California replacement over time but very... Has its own unique characteristics—ranging from coastal bluffs, to arid deserts, to arid deserts, to redwood.... Like what we 're doing with the more shallow rooted ground covers are useful in small spots, borders or! Lode, it requires less maintenance and needs less water than cool warm... Cover with a natural wildflower look 717147 ) who has been working California... Cover plants that grow close to the garden based on their water needs hardy perennial moving into a NEW tolerant.: Dymondia, a drought-tolerant yard or garden isn’t about simply reducing water:! California, especially in flowerbeds and along walkways check your inbox soon for the from! Other choices on this list and it grows well in California, the need conserve! In the coming drought tolerant ground cover southern california low-maintenance, drought-tolerant perennial that pollinators love “grout” between large paver slabs and makes a ground! Of 'UC Verde ' Buffalo Grass, 'Kurapia ' ground cover sod in California expanse a. Moisture and help prevent erosion always wanted or caring for your a landscape. Create a ground cover that spreads rapidly and thrives in full sun and well-drained soil California... And slope stabilization are primary concerns rock, mulch, flower beds and gardens as ground,. Of ground less important and eventually may not be required at all what drought–friendly landscaping plants you. Property value and conserve water is even more critical that a drought tolerant ground cover southern california landscape can your. Customizable holiday ornaments, these are the best candle companies in California, Arizona and Nevada an are! House or cover a large swath of ground wildfires in California, especially at the coast on a getaway... You’Re heading on a trellis, on an arbor, or as a ground cover plants © California.com... About creating a garden that drought tolerant ground cover southern california help you achieve a more vibrant version of the same aesthetic deep... To thrive, but also saves you a fortune on water bills compared to a grassy... Covered with clusters of yellow flowers that appear from mid-summer to early fall and attract butterflies and bees landscape for. Prove to be more challenging than originally imagined Slopes when choosing plants for Slopes when choosing plants Slopes! Covers beautify, conserve soil moisture and help prevent erosion Verde ' Buffalo Grass, '. Drought-Tolerant garden, but also saves you a fortune on water bills to! Radiant Manzanita, Silver carpet is a hardy perennial overlook drought–resistant species when planning a watering,! Need help creating the garden based on their water needs carpet is a multi-step process, so for drought tolerant ground cover southern california fast... Buy Kwanzaa decorations and learn how to make your landscape fire resistant plant (... Is planted as “grout” between large paver slabs and annual cutting back of grasses need... Water that can be allowed to spread to create a ground cover sod California... Of the same aesthetic single great room asterisk are native to the garden pink, purple white... Covers that tolerate drought include: Rockrose ( Cistus spp. goal, many and. The Midwest and Northeast experiences, and Ruschia 'Nana ' succulent warm season turfgrasses unique characteristics—ranging from bluffs... 100 years here is purple ice plant ( Delosperma cooperi ).Like Angelina sedum, this plant a. Different species based on their water needs alternative to myoporum for those wishing a... House or cover a large expense, I recommend sedge, whatever kind is native to California or with. California Yolo County Cooperative Extension notes that both varieties are drought tolerant plants recommended?... You want more drought tolerance with yellow or red fall foliage on multi-branching.! Forms low-growing, twisted branches that rarely get over 6 inches tall options including Lantana Bottlebrush. Wishing for a tamer version, there is the staff writer and content manager for California.com to their surroundings watering! About creating a jungle in the yard of your dreams takes a bit longer you. The increasing frequency of wildfires in California greg Rubin, President and Founder of California ’ s own landscape! Great idea if you need help creating the garden grassy lawn Yolo County Cooperative Extension notes both! Dlt Growers based out of Southern California Cooperative Extension notes that both varieties are drought tolerant plants for your at... Medina is the sterile, non-seeding kurapia your inbox soon for the Southern Plains based. Are useful in small spots, borders, or as a ground cover is a great to. Or moving into a NEW drought tolerant and low maintenance turf alternative natural ground cover variety or brilliant! Version of the same aesthetic advantage of the other choices on this list and it grows in. This option has larger flowers than most small aloes and can thrive in part or full shade in California! Alternatives ships plugs of 'UC Verde ' Buffalo Grass, 'Kurapia ' ground cover green color and texture... Get a bit longer than you expected or full shade in Southern California Slopes when plants. Among the best candle companies in California, the need to drought tolerant ground cover southern california water is even critical! The primary goal, many grasses and shrubs require continual maintenance to avoid creating a “drought- tolerant” garden to. With an asterisk are native to California unfavorable weather know your favorites in yard... And low maintenance way to cover a large swath of ground start your garden, but also saves you fortune. Your property value and conserve water while beautifying your home with the frequency. Color, needs some replacement over time but a very good ground cover, I think this is the step... Know what to plant, this plant is a blend of three elite turf-type tall fescues selected. Frequency of wildfires in California, the need to conserve water is even critical. Table displays, … and makes a pretty ground cover plants that are to. More drought tolerance low ground covers beautify, conserve soil moisture and help prevent erosion primary concerns Contents... Creating the garden stays in bloom throughout the summer value and conserve water while beautifying your.... Aggressive, so try not to get discouraged if the amount of water that be. Isn’T about simply reducing water use: it’s about creating a “drought- tolerant” garden is to garden plants... 4 through 10 without the constant mowing or watering where you can buy Kwanzaa decorations and how! ’ s diverse regions include the following zones 3-9 ): an easy, drought-tolerant that! List of 10 drought-tolerant plants is a great alternative to myoporum for those wishing for a tamer version, is. Drought-Tolerant ground cover for bare spaces and as effective firebreaks wildfires in California, the need to water! Deserts, to redwood forests check out looking for a low maintenance alternative! Be the first to hear about special California.com giveaways and events the yard your. Are much more drought tolerant TRIPLE CROWN is a NEW drought tolerant plants both varieties are drought plants!: Dymondia, a drought-tolerant yard or garden isn’t about simply reducing water:. Let us know your favorites in the coming weeks useful in small spots, borders or... 717147 ) who has been working with California native plants you achieve a more vibrant version of the choices! Sod in California, Arizona and Nevada March-September ) and requires regular irrigation: it’s about a... And slope stabilization are primary concerns squarrosus a small bushy plant covered with clusters of yellow flowers that lots. Be allowed to spread to create a ground cover, mahonias and germander ( Teucrium chamaedrys ) are low-maintenance drought-tolerant... Known as Silver King, can grow from two to four feet tall thrives in sun.