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Grown as either a large shrub or a small, multi-trunked tree, a blooming western redbud is one of the most dramatic of California natives. Although spring blossoms are the most standout feature of the western redbud, its foliage and overall aspect are equally welcoming.
This native California grass is commonly called deer grass, although deer generally avoid it. In California, it ranges from Shasta County to the Mexican border. It is also found in Texas, New Mexico, and Mexico usually below 7000 ft.
Ceanothus is a large genus of diverse, versatile and beautiful North American species in the buckthorn family, Rhamnaceae. Many are native to California, some endemic to Sonoma County. The genus includes over 60 shrubs, prostrate or mounding, often from 1-6 ft. high, although native C.
Known as chaparral broom, or more commonly coyote brush, Baccharis pilularis is part of the sunflower family (Asteraceae), even though it looks nothing like a sunflower.
Garrya elliptica, commonly called silktassel or coast tassel bush, is prized for its catkinslong, pendent flowersthat cascade from branch tips among dense, green leaves in winter when little else is in bloom. This substantial, long-lived, shrub is also attractive when not in flower.
Calamagrostis x acutiflora, commonly called feather reed grass, is a dramatic ornamental grass useful in mass plantings or as a strong vertical accent in a perennial bed.
Perovskia is neither Russian nor sage; rather, it is native to southwestern and central Asia, Afghanistan to Tibet. It is a member of the Lamiaceae (mint) family, as are the true sages in the genus Salvia. It was probably first called sage because its crushed foliage smells sage-like.
Some oreganos are meant to savor and season foods while others are meant to admire. Originating in areas around the Mediterranean Basin, both types have identical cultural needs and do well in Sonoma County with its similar climate.
Helianthemum nummularium, commonly called sunrose, is one of the very few low-growing, sun-loving, evergreen shrubs for the garden. Plants reach about 1 ft. tall but spread 2-3 ft. wide.
