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Lori Whalen: A Journey Into Native Plants
Lori Whalen, a new Board member, has a rich background in environmental education and a passion for native plants. Her journey began with volunteer work and has evolved into leadership at the Environmental Nature Center. Lori emphasizes the importance of connecting people to nature through education, conservation, and community engagement.
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Discover St. Catherine’s Lace: A Stunning Native Shrub
Eriogonum giganteum, or St. Catherine’s Lace, is a striking evergreen shrub native to California’s Channel Islands, thriving in full sun and well-drained soil. Growing up to 6 feet tall, it boasts large, creamy white flowers that attract butterflies and bees. This drought-tolerant plant requires minimal upkeep and can feature in various landscape designs.
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Meet Karen Graham: Advocate for Native Plants in Education
Karen Graham has joined the Orange County Chapter of the California Native Plant Society, bringing extensive educational experience and a passion for native plants. As Program Director at Earthroots Field School, she promotes eco-literacy and advocates for biodiversity. Inspired by her childhood and community involvement, Graham emphasizes accessible native plant education and collaboration with Indigenous…
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Discover Catalina Silverlace: The Rare Constancea Plant
Constancea nevinii, or Catalina Silverlace, is a rare, endangered shrub found on Channel Islands. It thrives in full sun with well-draining soil. Known for its striking silvery foliage and yellow flowers, it’s a valuable addition to coastal gardens and attracts pollinators. Prune regularly to maintain shape and health.
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Gardening Resolutions for a Thriving Native Landscape in 2026
The January/February 2026 edition of the Native Gardener’s Corner features insights and challenges faced by members regarding their native gardens. Contributors discuss optimism, sourcing plants, managing weeds, and personal resolutions for braver gardening practices. The newsletter highlights aspirations to balance biodiversity with neighborhood acceptance while adapting to changes in gardening resources and personal capabilities.
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December Plant Spotlight: John Dourley Manzanita
The December Plant of the Month for the OCCNPS is ‘John Dourley’ Manzanita, a low-growing shrub ideal for various garden settings. Known for its attractive orange-red new growth, pink flowers, and adaptability, it provides nectar and berries for wildlife. It requires careful watering and occasional pruning for optimal growth.
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Essential Winter Gardening Tips for Native Plants
In the November/December 2025 edition, Dan Songster shares member insights on gardening tasks suitable for winter. Contributors highlight their favorite chores, including pruning, weeding, and planting. They emphasize these activities help prepare native gardens for spring while minimizing future work. The upcoming edition will address anticipated garden challenges for the new year.
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Planting Elegant Clarkia Seeds for a Vibrant Garden
Elegant Clarkia, or Clarkia unguiculata, is a vibrant annual wildflower ideal for California gardens. With colorful blooms from April to June, it’s adaptable to various soil types and light conditions. Seeds are best sown in late fall for naturalization. This hardy plant attracts pollinators and serves as a beautiful cut flower.
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Celebrate Tree of Life Nursery’s Legacy with OCCNPS
Tree of Life Nursery will close in December, prompting the Orange County Chapter of the California Native Plant Society to hold a Members Celebration Day on October 18. The event includes special rare plant sales, free box lunches for members, expert presentations, and an art activity. Non-members can register for membership on-site.
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Honoring Tree of Life Nursery’s Impact on California Ecology
Tree of Life Nursery, closing this December after 45 years, has profoundly influenced California’s native plant community. Members of OCCNPS express gratitude for its role in fostering connections between people and ecology. The nursery served as both a retail space and a space for education, enriching the lives of many through native gardening.
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Why Plant Hollyleaf Cherry? Attract Wildlife and Enhance Gardens
Hollyleaf Cherry (Prunus illicifolia) is the October Plant of the Month highlighted by the Orange County Chapter of the California Native Plant Society. This adaptable, evergreen shrub thrives in Southern California’s dry conditions, featuring shiny leaves and dark red fruit. It provides habitat for wildlife and serves various landscape functions, including erosion control.
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California Fuchsia ‘Catalina’: The Ultimate Hummingbird Attractor
The California Native Plant Society Orange County Chapter highlights California Fuchsia ‘Catalina’ as September 2025’s Plant of the Month. This perennial is drought-tolerant, attracts hummingbirds, and thrives in sunny, well-drained areas. Notably taller than similar species, ‘Catalina’ features vibrant red flowers and enhances garden aesthetics when planted alongside other native varieties.
A Buckwheat in Every Garden
Buckwheat Brings Butterflies