Tag: southern california
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Chalk Dudleya: The Ultimate Guide to Growing This Stunning Succulent
The article by Dan Songster features Dudleya pulverulenta, known as Chalk Dudleya, as the Plant of the Month for May. Native to California, this attractive perennial succulent thrives in well-draining, rocky soil and can tolerate drought. It showcases striking silver-grey foliage and beautiful cherry red flowers, appealing to hummingbirds.
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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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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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Benefits of Woodland Strawberry for Shady Gardens
The Woodland Strawberry (Fragaria vesca) is a resilient perennial ground cover thriving in shade to partial sunlight, with adaptable soil tolerance. It forms a lush carpet of green, produces sweet edible berries, and attracts pollinators. Ideal for woodland gardens, it requires minimal care and can withstand drought, making it a versatile choice.
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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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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.