Common name:California Sycamore
Botanical name:Platanus racemosa
The California Sycamore is a fast growing deciduous tree that reaches up to 40'-50' high. It tolerates heat, smog, and drought conditions as well as moist conditions; it is native to riparian areas. It has interesting mottled bark when the tree is bare in winter.
Common name:Long-leafed Yellowwood
Botanical name:Podocarpus henkelii
This handsome evergreen tree will grow 30'-50' high and 15'-20' wide. It has beautiful drooping, shiny, green foliage year-round. Leaves are slightly crescent-shaped, 5'-7' long when young, shorter when plant matures. It makes an attractive container plant.
Common name:New Zealand Flax, Purple
Botanical name:Phormium tenax 'Atropurpureum'
Phormium tenax 'Atropurpureum' is an evergreen perennial. Big, dramatic plant composed of many swordlike, stiffly vertical leaves can reach 5' tall. Leaves are purple red. Flowers stems reach high above leaves, bearing clusters of 1"-2" blossoms in dark red.
| Designer: Susanne Jett | Vertical Plants |
Photographer: GardenSoft |
Soils and Compost:
Practice grass-cycling by leaving short grass clippings on lawns after mowing, so that nutrients and organic matter are returned to the soil.
Water Saving Tip:
Check your irrigation system for breaks, leaks and problems once a month.
Integrated Pest Management:
Attract, or buy beneficial insects such as ladybugs and lacewings to control pest outbreaks in your garden.