Common name: Sweet Violet
Botanical name: Viola odorata

Violas, also known as pansies or johnny jump-ups, are native wild violets that have been improved upon in a myriad of ways. In addition to a wider variety of colors, violas are available with different bloom times and sizes, as well as improved temperature hardiness. These beauties are so popular, they serve as the state flowers for no less than four states--Illinois, New Jersey, Wisconsin and Rhode Island. All are fragrant, deer resistant and quite easy to grow.

Common name: Tuttle Dwarf Natal Plum
Botanical name: Carissa macrocarpa 'Tuttle'

This spreading, low-growing sub-shrub will grow about 2'-3' tall and 5' wide. It has small, glossy, dark green, fleshy leaves that densely cover the shrub. Delicate white, star-shaped, fragrant flowers bloom in spring and summer. Oval fruit appear in summer, turning red when ripe. This fruit can be used for jams and jellies. This plant oozes sap when branches are cut or broken and may cause allergenic reactions for some people. Watch out for thorns. This plant tolerates coastal as well as desert areas. It needs little water in coastal areas but more in hot inland valleys. Prune to desired shape.

Common name: Deodar Cedar
Botanical name: Cedrus deodara

This fast-growing, coniferous evergreen is capable of reaching a size of 80' high by 40' wide. Its needles are a light, silvery green color, 2" long. Flowers are inconspicuous. Barrel shaped cones appear in fall and winter. Branches are pendulous and spreading. Plant in area that has ample room for growth.

Common name: Silver Sage
Botanical name: Salvia argentea

This biennial will grow 1'-4' tall and 1'-3' wide. It has gray green leaves with white flowers that are sometimes tinged yellow or pink and bloom in spring and summer.