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: Deer Grass
Botanical name: Muhlenbergia rigens

Deer Grass is a warm season perennial grass that forms dense clumps from the base. The spike-like flower stalks grow 2'-3' tall in summer. This grass has dramatic and handsome form. Deer Grass needs watering once or twice a month after it has been established. It is very water efficient but looks better with regular waterings.

Common name: Cedros Island Verbena
Botanical name: Verbena lilacina 'De La Mina'

This attractive perennial quickly reaches 2'-3' tall and 4' wide. Foliage is bright green, dissected and fern-looking. During spring and summer, thin stalks rise above foliage, ending with fragrant, 1" diameter, lavender blue clusters of flowers, attracting bees and butterflies. This mound shaped plant prefers full to part sun. It is drought tolerant once it's established but will do better with occasional water during hot summer months.

Common name: California Meadow Sedge
Botanical name: Carex pansa

This native Carex can be successfully used as a lawn substitute but requires significant water to obtain good coverage. Once coverage is reached, water can be reduced and maintenance is close to zero. Unmowed, the plant can be used effectively in a variety of conditions and will reach a height of 6" or under and spreads up to 2' by rhizomes.