Nearly a year ago, we transformed a nearly-empty backyard into a California native paradise!
One year update!!!
Nearly a year ago, we transformed a nearly-empty backyard into a California native paradise!
Working with a massive, old-growth California Holly (Toyon / Heteromeles arbutifolia) as our centerpiece, we constructed a serene, shaded seating area. We surrounded this ginger rock patio with some of the most important keystone plant species native to the Bay Area-
In this garden, you can find not one, but two species of California lilac (Ceaonothus). The fuzzy blue blossoms on C. thrysiflorus and C. grisea are a crucial source of nectar and pollen early in the year, supporting our native bee populations. At the same time, the dense foliage on these shrubs provide food for dozens of native moth and butterfly species.
Another notable native plant in this garden is the Scarlet Monkeyflower (Erythranthe cardinalis), whose bright red, tubular flowers are perfectly evolved to attract hummingbird pollinators!
At Rhizome Urban Gardens, we strive to help plants and people grow together — this means creating beautiful, nature-inspired landscapes that are enjoyable to live alongside while simultaneously supporting our local ecosystems.
P.S.: The final two photos offer a view of the lot before we started work!
#bayareagardening #californianativeplants #monkeyflower #ceanothus #gardendesign
