Category: Botany
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Meet Katie Newman: Advocate for California Native Plants
Katie Newman, a board member of the OCCNPS, shares her journey with California native plants, influenced by her gardening family and studies at UC Davis. She’s currently working on outreach through social media while cultivating a garden with both natives and non-natives. Her goal is to reshape perceptions of native landscaping.
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Benefits of Growing Bush Sunflower
Encelia californica, or bush sunflower, is an evergreen sub-shrub native to Southern California, thriving in coastal sage scrub. It features yellow daisy-like flowers, attracts pollinators, and provides food for birds. Suitable for slopes and gardens, it requires little maintenance, with moderate water and occasional pruning for optimal bloom.
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Join OCCNPS in Supporting Native Plants and Biodiversity
During a visit to Vera’s Sanctuary amid strong Santa Ana winds and ash from a fire, the interconnectedness of nature became apparent. The Orange County Chapter of the California Native Plant Society (OCCNPS) focuses on promoting native plants, offering education and support for conservation efforts, while recognizing the contributions of volunteers and community members toward…
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Combatting Pampas and Fountain Grass Invasion
In Southern California, invasive plants like pampas grass and fountain grass threaten native ecosystems. A 2019 Cal-IPC survey revealed a significant increase in these species in Orange County. Citizens can help by identifying invasive plants, notifying landowners, and educating them about their impact, ultimately promoting native vegetation protection.
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Insights on California Native Plants from OCCNPS Treasurer
Lindsey Giron, treasurer of the OCCNPS, shares her journey and insights on California native plants. With a background in hospitality and accounting, she emphasizes the importance of connecting with nature. Currently, she is establishing workshops at Tree of Life Nursery and aims to engage more people in appreciating native plants and their ecosystems.
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Indian Mallow: A Drought-Tolerant Desert Beauty
Abutilon palmeri, also known as Indian Mallow, is a semi-evergreen to evergreen subshrub with abundant golden blossoms. It thrives in full sun with occasional watering, and its silvery, velvety leaves and poppy-like flowers make it attractive to native solitary bees. This low-maintenance plant is native to the low Sonoran Desert and can be a stunning…
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Tracey Daschbach: A Journey with California Native Plants
Tracey Daschbach, member-at-large of the California Native Plant Society Orange County Chapter (OCCNPS), is featured in today’s article compiled by Thea Gavin. A person of many talents (software engineer, full-time parent, Braille Institute librarian, UCI Herbarium volunteer, nature-inspired textile artist), Tracey shares her skills with our chapter in many areas: E-newsletter lead, plant sales, A…
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California Coffeeberry: A Summer Garden Essential
Guest author Dan Songster discusses the benefits of the evergreen shrub Frangula californica, also known as California Coffeeberry, as a foundation plant during the hot summer months. Its adaptability, green foliage, and colorful berries make it a favorite for garden design and a valuable resource for butterflies.
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Discover the Beauty of Coast Live Oak Trees
The Coast Live Oak (Quercus agrifolia) is an evergreen tree native to California, thriving in various soil types and climates. Recognized for its beauty, it provides shade and sustains local wildlife. Despite threats like the Polyphagus Shot Hole Borer, it is increasingly planted in parks and community gardens across Orange County.
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Mel Letterman’s Journey in Native Plant Education
Mel Letterman, a dedicated member of the California Native Plant Society, is passionate about native plants. From childhood experiences to formal education, Mel’s journey has shaped his devotion to native plant conservation. Through volunteer work, herbarium management, and educational outreach, Mel strives to uplift underrepresented voices and promote the value of native plants.
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Dudleya viscida: A Rare Southern California Treasure
This article, originally from the February 2022 OCCNPS newsletter, highlights the Dudleya viscida, a succulent found in rocky coastal areas. The author recounts a field trip to the Santa Ana Mountains where they encountered thriving Dudleya viscida plants. They discuss its cultivation and recommend it for rock gardens in mild climates. The article also references…
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Daphne Christle: Rewilding Urban Landscapes with Native Plants
Daphne Christle, Vice President of the OCCNPS, aims to enhance urban environments with California native plants through education and community outreach. Inspired by her father and activists like Julia Butterfly Hill, she focuses on community science. Her future goals emphasize biodiversity, education, and rewilding urban landscapes for healthier ecosystems.