Common name:Wild Rye, Canyon Prince
Botanical name:Leymus condensatus 'Canyon Prince'

One of the best known and utilized native grass selections in Southern California, this beautiful, blue gray foliage spreads out 3'-4' or more. It will reach a height of 2'-3'. It rarely flowers. It does spread by rhizomes although not as vigorously as some closely related species. It can be extremely drought tolerant and care must be taken not to over water this species as it can rot from the center. Otherwise, it is carefree and requires virtually no maintenance.

Common name:Madrone
Botanical name:Arbutus menziesii

One of the most attractive of all California broadleafs, Arbutus menziesii, or Pacific Madrone, has a smooth trunk with lovely, peeling red bark highlighted by shiny green, oval, toothed foliage and showy white spring flowers followed by red berries. This tree can reach 50' tall but looks more like a large shrub in inland valley areas. It prefers acid, well draining soil and afternoon shade. It does well under oak trees. Make sure you mulch this tree.

Common name:Japanese Maple
Botanical name:Acer palmatum

This magnificient plant can used as a small tree or shrub. It is deciduous with graceful leaves which have a scarlet color in spring as it leafs out. Leaves later turn orange or yellow in fall. It is slow growing to 20', and requires shelter from the hot sun. The leaves of this tree are small, light green in color, and deeply lobed. It should also be noted that this tree remains spectacular throughout all seasons. (2nd photo courtesy of Steve Mullany)

Managing Your Soil

Healthy soil is the cornerstone of a vibrant landscape. It provides oxygen and nutrients vital to plant growth and sustenance. It provides protection from the sun and stability for root systems.

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