Common Yarrow+ Achillea millefolium

A perennial/groundcover that spreads by its roots, this specimen presents 3-4" clusters of small white flowers above evergreen foliage that is delicate and finely textured. Adult butterflies enjoy this plant. Medium drought tolerant, likes to be in sun to partial sun. Excellent when used in a garden border or as a lawn substitute as it can be mowed. Widely adapted to variety of soil conditions.

Plant size: 4-6" high x 3' wide

Western Columbine+ Aquilegia formosa

Delicate orange-red blossoms nod above gray-green lacy foliage from spring to summer. Attracts adult butterflies. Medium to low drought tolerant, this plant prefers a shady location. A favorite garden perennial, cutting first blooms will encourage a second crop (but leave some to reseed).

Plant size: 2.5' high x 2' wide

Bigleaf Lupine# Lupinus latifolius

This is a beautiful lupine with long, fragrant rose-purple flowering spikes. Foliage, arranged like spread fingers on a hand, is an attractive gray-green and it is an important food plant for butterfly larvae. It is tolerant of garden conditions, and prefers sun to partial sun.

Plant size: 4' high x 4' wide

Bush Sunflower*Encelia californica

A small shrub that looks best in the garden setting if cut back every two years and irrigated in the summer; however, this is useful for out-of-the way places beyond irrigation. Bright yellow daisy-like flowers bloom from February to June. Prefers sun to partial sun location.

Plant size: 3' high x 5' wide.

Photo Credit:
+ California Academy of Sciences, Charles Webber, 1998;
* St. Mary's College, Br. Alfred Brousseau, 1995;
# Steven Thorsted

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