Common name:Western Azalea
Botanical name:Rhododendron occidentale
The Western Azalea is a deciduous shrub that grows 6'-10' tall. It produces fragrant, showy, white to pink flower clusters in spring. This shrub prefers shade and is hardy to -5 degrees F. Western Azalea is native to CA, prefers well draining, moist soil. Bees and butterflies love Western Azalea.
Common name:Weeping Brown Sedge
Botanical name:Carex flagellifera
This is a striking everbrown sedge with coppery foliage that stands 2' high. This plant is fire prone. Please use caution when planting near your home.
Common name:Japanese Aralia
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.
Designer: Debbie Snyder-Brooks
Photographer: Debbie Snyder-Brooks
Practice grass-cycling by leaving short grass clippings on lawns after mowing, so that nutrients and organic matter are returned to the soil.
Mulching and adding compost to soil can minimize evaporation and help soil absorb and store water.
Attract, or buy beneficial insects such as ladybugs and lacewings to control pest outbreaks in your garden.