Common name: Cape Rush
Botanical name: Chondropetalum tectorum
Chondropetalum tectorum has 2-3' tall stems that shoot out in all directions from the roots. Each stem has papery bracts connected to the ends that turn from tan to dark brown, then fall off. Chondropetalum can grow in marshes, in the ground with regular watering, or in drought conditions. It tolerates full sun and shade and can be grown close to the ocean.
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: Flowering Maple
Botanical name: Abutilon hybrids
Flowering Maple usually grow to 8'-10' tall and as wide. Most will tolerate frost to 25 degrees F or lower with some damage. All are irresistible to hummingbirds with their showy flowers and heavy nectar production. They will take sun to moderately deep shade and little or no summer watering in coastal areas. They should be given more shade and water in hotter, drier climates. They make an excellent plant for containers.
Common name: Sticky Monkey Flower
Botanical name: Mimulus aurantiacus
Sticky Monkey Flower is a drought tolerant evergreen shrub 4' tall with numerous, orangish yellow flowers in spring and summer. It is a California native that attracts hummingbirds in abundance. This shrub can be found on the dry hills and canyon slopes in the Sierra Nevada foothills and the central Coast Ranges.
Common name: Mexican Feather Grass
Botanical name: Nassella tenuissima
The Mexican Fan Grass is a beautiful, fine, airy grass that is emerald green in color. It has many soft yellow-beige flower stalks in the spring. This grass grows 10"-12" tall , 1'-2' wide, and is drought tolerant. It is a very aggressive reseeder and once it takes off in the garden it is hard to stop. Invasive.