Bench of Repose

Common name:Japanese Fatsia
Botanical name:Fatsia japonica

This evergreen shrub has large, glossy, fan-like leaves that grow to 16" wide. It has a moderate growth rate to a size of 5'-8' that can be kept lower with occasional pruning. It has a very lush, tropical appearance, and grows well in partial shade.

Common name:Common Camellia
Botanical name:Camellia japonica

This beautiful evergreen shrub can reach 6-15' tall, depending on the variety. It is intended for growth in filtered sun to shade, with regular water and more in hot summer areas. They make excellent container plants. White, pink or red flowers bloom in winter. Camellia prefers well draining, acid soil. Mulch well to keep roots cool.

Soils and Compost:

Maintain a two to four inch layer of mulch on the soil surface to reduce weeds, infiltrate rain water, and reduce compaction.

Water Saving Tip:

Replace turf with groundcovers, trees, and shrubs. If you have areas where no one uses the grass, patches that do not grow well, or a turf area too small to water without runoff, consider replacing the turf with water-efficient landscaping.

Integrated Pest Management:

Drip and other smart irrigation delivers water directly to roots, allowing no excess water for weeds.