Common name:White Birch, European White Birch
Botanical name:Betula pendula

This medium-size weeping tree will grow to about 40' tall and has a whitish/brown bark with deciduous green leaves. This is one tree that can be planted in a lawn area but is not recommended for drought tolerant designs.

Common name:Dwarf Morning Glory
Botanical name:Convolvulus sabatius

Convolvulus sabaticus is a perennial that grows 1'-2' high, with branches that spread to 3' or more. It produces blue to lavender flowers with blooms of 1"-2" wide. The soft, evergreen leaves are 1/2" to 1.5" long.

Common name:Butterfly-Iris, Fortnight Lily
Botanical name:Dietes iridioides

This clumping evergreen Iris bears tall, narrow leaves to 30" tall and white flowers marked purple in the center on stalks up to 3' tall. This variety has stiffer, darker foliage than the bicolor form. It requires sun to part shade with little or no summer watering when established.

Common name:Netted Chain Fern
Botanical name:Woodwardia areolata

The Netted Chain Fern is a small fern that grows 2'-3' tall. It can tolerate full sun but does best in some shade. This fern is native to California and is drought tolerant.

Common name:Petunia
Botanical name:Petunia X hybrida

This plant will grow 1'-3' tall and has medium-sized green leaves with multi-colored flowers that bloom in spring and summer.

Common name:Forest Pansy Redbud
Botanical name:Cercis canadensis 'Forest Pansy'

This small tree may reach 25' tall and it has dark green/purple leaves that are purple in the fall. Amazing pink flowers bloom in the spring and fill the tree.

Common name:Carmel Creeper
Botanical name:Ceanothus griseus horizontalis

Carmel Creeper is one of the most popular forms of spreading shrubs. Its glossy oval leaves of 2" are bright green. The tiny, light blue flowers are abundant and form 1" clusters. This shrub benefits from pruning. It does best in well-drained soil with little to no summer water.

Common name:Germander Sage, Mexican Blue Sage
Botanical name:Salvia chamaedryoides

Low mounding perennial grows to 2' x 2'. Spreads by underground runners. Produces a small, silvery foliage which serves as a background for bright blue flowers. Bruised leaves have spicy fragrance. Heaviest bloom appears in spring and early fall, intermittent throughout the rest of the season. Needs full sun and a well drained site. Do not fertilize. Very drought tolerant. Native to eastern Mexico.

Managing Your Soil

Healthy soil is the cornerstone of a vibrant landscape. It provides oxygen and nutrients vital to plant growth and sustenance. It provides protection from the sun and stability for root systems.

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