Tag: california native plant society
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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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Lemonade Berry: The Resilient Native Shrub for Southern California
The Orange County Chapter of the California Native Plant Society highlights the Lemonade berry (Rhus integrifolia) as the August Plant of the Month. This adaptable evergreen shrub thrives in full sun, tolerates drought, and grows 6-10 feet tall. Known for its unique bitter lemon-flavored berries, it offers various landscaping benefits, such as acting as a…
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Desert Willow: A Versatile Garden Gem
Dan Songster highlights the Desert Willow (Chilopsis linearis) as July’s Plant of the Month. This fast-growing, deciduous shrub thrives in full sun and various soils, featuring showy, fragrant blooms from pink to lavender. Ideal for gardens, it attracts wildlife and requires minimal care, making it a versatile landscape choice.
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Protecting Endangered Plants: Habitat is Essential
Ron Vanderhoff, a California botanist, expresses concern about proposed changes to the Endangered Species Act that could weaken habitat protections for native plants. He emphasizes that native species, such as the Laguna Beach Live Forever and Santiago Canyon Live Forever, rely on specific habitats for survival. Conservation efforts must prioritize habitat protection to prevent extinction.
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Matilija Poppy: California’s Iconic Flower
The Matilija Poppy (Romneya coulteri) is a striking California native perennial known for its large white flowers and golden stamens, blooming in late spring. It thrives in well-drained soil and can become aggressive in gardens, spreading through rhizomes. Best planted away from smaller plants, it stabilizes soil and is challenging to propagate due to delicate…
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Pamela Heiss: Championing Native Plants in Orange County
Pamela Heiss, a member of the OCCNPS board, actively promotes native plants within the Orange County community through her work with the Garden Tour and Outreach teams. Since joining CNPS in 2018, she emphasizes the importance of conservation and community education. Pamela aims to inspire awareness of native plants’ benefits for local ecosystems and biodiversity.