Common name:Coast Redwood, Redwood
Botanical name:Sequoia sempervirens
This fast-growing, aromatic tree has soft, dark green foliage with long needles appearing in flat sprays and brown, barrel-shaped cones that appear after 1 year. Its soft, red-brown bark is fiberous and furrowed. Particularly after mechanical damage, this tree will stump sprout to form new, young trees around the stump. Avoid planting in areas of high foot traffic.
Common name:Silver Maple, Soft or White Maple
Botanical name:Acer saccharinum
This fast-growing, equally spreading tree can reach heights of 40-100'. Leaves of 3"-6" in width are five-lobed, with a light green top color and silvery color beneath. The fall color is a mixture of scarlet, orange and yellow. With an aggressive root system, this tree can be hard on sidewalks and sewers. It is, however, one of the best trees for poor soils where few other trees will grow.
Common name:Southern Magnolia, Bull Bay
Botanical name:Magnolia grandiflora
Its large, simple leathery appearance makes the pyramidal Magnolia grandiflora perfect for either a street or lawn tree. Its leaves are 4"-8" long, and its powerfully fragrant blooms are carried throughout the summer and fall. If these plants are grafted , they are more predictable (may take 15 years to bloom). Ungrafted trees will take only 2-3 years. Restricted root areas or heavy soils will slow the growth process. In zones 4 and 5, the tree needs a warm wall or a pocket.
Common name:Rose selected cultivars
Botanical name:Rosa species
These shrubs and vines are the most-loved in the West and are very resilient. They come in a wide variety of sizes and colors and are easy to maintain with proper care. Roses can be espaliered or used on a trellis or as shrubs along walkways. Some are fragrant; most have thorns.
Common name:Eulalia Grass, Japanese Silver Gras
Botanical name:Miscanthus sinensis
Miscanthus sinensis is popular ornamental grass. Red flowers are held well above foliage clumps, appearing in summer, and may be cut for fresh or dry arrangements. Miscanthus needs full sun and watering at least once a week and more during hot summers. Foliage is variegated, with a thin white band down the center. This grass does great in coastal as well as warm inland valleys.
Common name:Feverfew
Botanical name:Chrysanthemum parthenium
This herbaceous perennial will grow 2-3' high x 2-3' wide and produces beautiful white flowers with aromatic foliage. There are many cultivar selections. Used as a medicinal herb.