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, Golden Poppy
Botanical name:Eschscholzia californica

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.

Common name:Foothill Penstemon
Botanical name:Penstemon heterophyllus

This perennial will grow 1.5'-2' tall and 2'-3' wide. It has glossy, blue-green foliage with violet colored, tubular flowers that bloom from spring through summer. Flowers are spectacular. This plant prefers full sun, well draining soil is drought tolerant once it's established. Prune spent flowers to encourage more blooming. Do not overwater or fertilize often, as it is hardy. This plant does well in coastal, desert and mountain areas.

Common name:Island Alum Root
Botanical name:Heuchera maxima

Heuchera maxima will reach about 3' tall when in bloom and has deep green, lobed, evergreen leaves. Small white flowers with a touch of pink bloom in spring, rising above the foliage. This perennial can tolerate full sun in coastal areas but prefers part sun to shade in inland valleys. It looks great under oak trees, planted in masses. It is drought tolerant once it's established.