Category: Buckwheat
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Embracing Local Flora: The Future of California Gardens
In a discussion among California native plant gardeners, members shared their wishes for an ideal gardening experience. Many expressed desires for greater acceptance of native plants, improved accessibility to knowledgeable resources, and enhanced community engagement. They envisioned a world where native plants dominate landscapes, enriching biodiversity and connecting people to their local ecology.
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Cleveland Sage: The Drought-Resistant Garden Star
Cleveland Sage (Salvia clevelandii) is featured as the Plant of the Month for June. This fragrant, drought-tolerant woody sub-shrub thrives in full sun, blooming from May to August. Its beautiful purple flowers attract pollinators while providing essential habitat. With proper care and pruning, Cleveland Sage enhances native gardens for years.
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Impact of Proposed Housing Near ENC in Newport Beach
Lori Whalen, Executive Director of the Environmental Nature Center (ENC), discusses a proposed residential development near ENC in Newport Beach. The project raises concerns about its impact on environmental education, safety, and community compatibility. Despite discussions with the developer, unresolved issues led ENC to oppose the current proposal, scheduled for Planning Commission review.
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Surprising Native Plants Thriving in 2026
In this article, guest author Dan Songster compiles insights from California native plant experts on which plants thrived this year. Contributors share their surprises, including impressive blooms from the Desert Willow, golden yarrow, and Chaparral mallows. The piece captures the joy of gardening and highlights the recovery of rare species like the San Clemente Island…
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Protect Newport Beach’s Civic Center Park from Police Station Plans
Laura Curran from OCCNPS urges residents to preserve Newport Beach’s Civic Center Park, a habitat filled with native Coastal Sage Scrub plants, amid plans for a new police station. The City Council will discuss the project’s impact, and community members are encouraged to voice their concerns before the April 28 meeting.
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Boost Biodiversity: The Power of California Native Plants
Laura Camp emphasizes the vital role of native plants in enhancing biodiversity in landscapes, referencing Doug Tallamy’s research that connects local wildlife survival, especially birds and caterpillars, to native flora. The movement encourages removing invasive species and promoting native landscaping to support ecosystems effectively, urging community involvement in this essential environmental effort.
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Rally for Nature: Defend the Roadless Rule on May 7, 2026
On May 7, 2026, from 3-6 pm, a Rally for Nature will be held in the Santa Ana Mountain Foothills to defend the Roadless Rule, protecting nearly 60 million acres of national forests. This is crucial for wildlife habitats, clean water, and limiting infrastructure costs. Participants can register online.
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Expert Advice on Growing Native Plants Successfully
The Native Gardener’s Corner shares insights from CNPS Orange County chapter members on gardening with California native plants. Key advice includes allowing space between plants, grouping by water needs, and understanding maintenance requirements. Members emphasize the importance of proper pruning, selecting suitable species for local conditions, and learning from experience to enhance gardening success.
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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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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.