Common name:Coast Live Oak
Botanical name:Quercus agrifolia
The coast live oak is and evergreen round-headed tree. It can reach 15-40 ft. high and 20 ft. wide and grows very well from the coastal areas to the interior valleys. It is native to California, is drought tolerant, and attracts butterflies. -Cornflower Farms
Common name:Bearded Iris
Botanical name:Iris Bearded Hybrids
This perennial will grow 1-3' tall and has medium-size blue/green leaves with wonderful flowers that come in a variety of colors.
Common name:Ribbonleaf Japanese Maple
Botanical name:Acer palmatum 'Atropurpureum'
This Japanese Maple grows as a small, deciduous tree complete with palmate leaves that turn red and endure for the entire season.
Designer: Michele Clement Garden Design
Photographer: GardenSoft
Practice grass-cycling by leaving short grass clippings on lawns after mowing, so that nutrients and organic matter are returned to the soil.
Mulching and adding compost to soil can minimize evaporation and help soil absorb and store water.
Drip and other smart irrigation delivers water directly to roots, allowing no excess water for weeds.