Tag: california native plant society
-
Benefits of Seaside Daisy: Attracting Pollinators to Your Garden
Dan Songster’s article introduces the Seaside Daisy (Erigeron glaucus), an evergreen perennial native to California’s coast. Thriving in full sun or partial shade, it features vibrant lavender and pink flowers, attracting pollinators. Easy to care for, it adapts to various soils and withstands drought. However, it may be mildly toxic to pets.
-
‘Howard McMinn’ Manzanita: an Ideal Evergreen Shrub
The ‘Howard McMinn’ manzanita, an evergreen shrub introduced in 1955, thrives in well-drained soils. Known for its striking red bark and bell-shaped flowers, it blooms late into spring. This adaptable plant is easy to grow, making it a popular choice for gardens and attracting pollinators.
-
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.
-
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…
-
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.
-
Douglas Iris: April Plant of the Month
Dan Songster highlights Douglas Iris (Iris douglasiana) as April’s Plant of the Month. This native California perennial thrives in various conditions, preferring partial shade and well-drained soil. Celebrated for its elegant spring flowers and evergreen foliage, it enhances gardens when used in masses, alongside native plants, or in rain gardens.
-
OC Botanical Science Highlights
OCCNPS Director Ron Vanderhoff highlights recent botanical discoveries, including the detection of rare and invasive plant species across various locations. Notable findings include two Fumaria species, the rare Lasthenia ssp. glabrata, and increased management of invasive Euphorbia terracina. Surveys were conducted to monitor plant health and biodiversity.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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…
-
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.
-
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.