Common name:Flowering Maple, Chinese Lantern
Botanical name:Abutilon hybridum
These evergreen shrubs usually grow to 8-10' tall and wide. Most will tolerate frost to 25 degrees F or lower, with some damage. All are irresistible to hummingbirds with their showy flowers and heavy nectar production. Abutilon prefers shade and moderate amount of water in inland warm areas. They make an excellent plant for containers. -Monterey Bay Nursery
Common name:Lily of the Nile
Botanical name:Agapanthus praecox ssp. orientalis
This evergreen shrub will grow about 3' tall and has large green leaves with blue flowers that bloom in spring and summer. It will grow in all soils but prefers loam soil. It can be grown in sun or shade. Lily of the Nile prefers a moderate amount of water; established plants have low water use.
| Designer: Mariette Olsen | Bench and Twin Urns |
Photographer: GardenSoft |
Soils and Compost:
Practice grass-cycling by leaving short grass clippings on lawns after mowing, so that nutrients and organic matter are returned to the soil.
Water Saving Tip:
Apply a layer of mulch around plants to reduce moisture loss.
Choose organic mulches, such as shredded bark, compost or aged sawdust.
Integrated Pest Management:
Drip and other smart irrigation delivers water directly to roots, allowing no excess water for weeds.