Common name: Western Redbud
Botanical name: Cercis occidentalis

This deciduous shrub or small tree reaches 15' tall and 10' wide. Beautiful magenta flowers appear in spring, before the leaves appear. Foliage is apple green, turning yellow to red in the fall. Seed pods dangle on this tree in winter. Western Redbud prefers full sun but will appreciate afternoon shade in desert areas. It needs well draining soil. It is drought tolerant once it's established. It attracts hummingbirds and butterflies. A tree of varying interest all year round!

Common name: California Poppy
Botanical name: Eschscholzia californica

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

Common name: Blue Thimble Flower, Globe Gilia
Botanical name: Gilia capitata

Globe Gilia is an annual that grows 8"-30" tall and 1' wide. Pale blue to violet-blue flowers with blue pollen rise above foliage on thin stalks in spring and summer. From far, flowers look like pin cushion globes! Foliage hovers around base and is lacy looking and narrow. This wildflower tolerates heat and prefers sandy, rocky, well draining soil. It's found on hillsides in the Pacific Northwest as well as in California mountains. Bees and butterflies love the flowers.