Why Should You Landscape with California Native Plants?
Sensory Appeal
California native plants include some of the most spectacular blooms and foliage in the world, with an array of colors that can suit any palette.
When selected appropriately, a diverse grouping can offer not only visual interest, but also layered texture and movement.
Similarly, natives may help you hear more birds singing, smell aromatic herbal foliage, and occasionally even taste berries or leaves confirmed safe for consumption.
Climate Resilience
California natives have adapted over centuries to thrive even through our climate's most extreme conditions, including droughts and flash floods.
Our water-efficient gardens are often more lush and imaginative than only the typical succulent and cacti landscapes, and can include an array of bright flowers and leafy vegetation that match a variety of aesthetic preferences.
Simplified & Organic Care
When grown in the appropriate spot, most of California's indigenous plants are hardy growers.
Many natives do not need any fertilization even in poor soil and respond best to Integrated Pest Management (IPM) practices.
IPM helps reduce or eliminate many potentially harmful chemicals from your property, and it reduces the amount of contaminated water entering our oceans.
Enhanced Biodiversity
California is one of only 36 biodiversity "hotspots" in the entire world. Of over 6,500 native plant species found in the Golden State, one third exist nowhere else on Earth.
With diverse natives, you help pollinators that are essential to our food supply, as well as preserve our state's legacy.
Plus, they can thrive among non-native but climate-tolerant plants like star jasmine, citrus, and bougainvillea that have become California staples.
Palpable Impact
As our state faces increasing threats of habitat loss and climate-related disasters, adding native plants to your landscape helps you take meaningful action and also enjoy the benefits.
With more trees and shrubs to host local birds, you might find fewer pests in your garden and mosquitoes on your porch. By adding layers of greenery and shade, you can cool down your property and save on energy costs.
Less Frequent Maintenance
With an established native landscape, your mentality shifts from watering multiple times a week to watering a few times a month (or, sometimes, even less!).
Native gardens often look their best with seasonal care and an occasional sprinkle of water, but they typically require far less time and fewer natural and/or pollutant-heavy resources than a turf lawn.
You deserve to enjoy your outdoor space, not battle it.
