Native Flowers

Living in California is truly a blessing! One of the many reasons is the incredible richness of our native plant population, which is the largest in the country with a staggering 4,839 species! Interestingly, it's worth noting that our native plants are more popular overseas than they are here at home.

Long before European settlement, California's native plants had evolved over time to adapt to our region's hot summers and cold winters. The species that survived have become well-suited to our weather and soil conditions.

Most native plants require minimal watering once they have been established, making them particularly drought-tolerant. For those with gardens in damp or marshy soil, there are also stunning shade and water-loving native plants available for these moist areas.

California's native plants are generally low-maintenance, requiring little to no pesticides or fertilizers, making them easy to grow. These plants can create stunning gardens that not only offer beauty but also serve as havens for biodiversity. However, it is important to keep in mind that the success of a native garden depends on the region in which it is grown. For instance, beach wildflowers won't thrive in mountainous areas. As our environment continues to become drier, it is critical to use native plants that can survive in harsher conditions.

Perhaps the most critical consideration is the role that native plants play in supporting California's butterflies, moths, and bees. These creatures rely on native plants for food and shelter, and it is vital to maintain a healthy habitat to sustain them. Insects are only part of the story, as birds, squirrels, chipmunks, deer, and other wildlife also depend on these plants for food and shelter.

As research continues to show, imported plant life can cause long-term damage to local ecosystems. Esteemed Garden Club member Toni Bethelotte emphasizes the importance of using native plants in her book "Basic Guide to Mountain Gardening," stating that native plants are beneficial for the soil, gardener, and ecology, and that the loss of natural resources due to human expansion can have devastating consequences. To support the survival of caterpillars, bees, and other essential species, it is crucial to plant native species that are adapted to their specific location. There is no time to waste, and it is essential to plant natives to replace lost natural resources as there is not enough wild land to support birds, bees, and insects that depend on them.