The UCCE Master Gardeners of Colusa County LOVE the Arboretum All-Stars. The All-Stars are mainly water-wise plants that look beautiful. When most people think water-wise or drought tolerant or xeriscaping, they think it's all succulents and cactus. You will be amazed by this list of 100 beautiful plants.

Some of my favorites that I have in my yard are:

• Califonria fuschia, Epilobium canum
• California fescue, Festuca californica
• Pigsqueak, Bergenia crassifolia
• Santa Barbara Daisy, Erigeron karvinskianus
• Coral bells, Heuchera sp.
• Pacific iris, Iris 'Canyon Snow'
• Dwarf oregano, Origanum vulgare 'Betty Rollins'
• Snow in summer, Cerastium tomentosum
• Compact Oregon grape, Berberis aquifolium 'Compacta
• Ceanothus, Ceanothus sp.
• Lavender, Lavandula sp.
• Roses, Rosa sp.
• Rosemary, Rosmarinus sp.
• Mint bush sage, Salvia sp.

Some of these have several species that are just as fantastic! I did not realize I have so many of these in my yard.

So, what makes a plant an All-star?

• Attractive for most of the year.
• Thrives in California's Mediterranean climate.
• Test in the UC Davis Arboretum.

Many of them are:

• Low maintenance
• Drought Tolerant
• Attracts beneficial wildlife

Click here to read all about the Arboretum All-Stars!