Rain Runoff Channel

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:Sunset Rockrose
Botanical name:Cistus 'Sunset'

This Rockrose stands 2' tall and spreads 6-8 ft. wide. This dependable shrub has a dark magenta-pink flower with yellow centers. Resinous gray/green leaves have wrinkled edges. It prefers full sun and well draining soil, It is great for erosion control and is deer resistant. It tolerates coastal conditions. Once it's established, it is drought tolerant.

Common name:Western Redbud
Botanical name:Cercis occidentalis

This deciduous shrub or small tree reaches 15' tall and 10' wide. Beautiful magenta flowers appear in spring, before the leaves appear. Foliage is apple green , turning yellow to red in the fall. Seed pods dangle on this tree in winter. Western Redbud prefers full sun but will appreciate afternoon shade in desert areas. It needs well draining soil. It is drought tolerant once it's established. It attracts hummingbirds and butterflies. A tree of varying interest all year round!

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:

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:

Develop healthy soil for plants that are vigorous and naturally pest-resistant.