Common name:Nandina, Heavenly Bamboo
Botanical name:Nandina domestica
Nandina domestica is a graceful upright shrub that grows from 3'-6' in height. It gets its name from its bamboo-like growth habit. When thinned from the center it bears a remarkable resemblance to bamboo. It is best used in groups. It can be used in a shaded patio or out in a shrub border with full sun. An interesting feature of Heavenly Bamboo is the bronze color in the new growth when planted in full sun. It also bears clusters of white flowers in the spring.
Common name:Bear's Breech, Acanthus
Botanical name:Acanthus mollis
This perennial produces large clusters of glossy foliage that is deeply lobed. Its leaves may reach lengths of 2'. The tall, purplish-white flower spikes are usually seen in late spring to early summer. It can be used as an accent plant. Acanthus is an effective, shade loving, herbaceous shrub.
Common name:Jupiter's Beard, Red Valerian
Botanical name:Centranthus ruber
This perennial groundcover will grow 1'-3' high and has medium-size blue/green leaves with red, pink, or white flowers that bloom in the summer.
Common name:Freeway Daisy, Trailing African Dai
Botanical name:Osteospermum fruticosum
This groundcover will grow 1'-3' tall and has medium-sized, green leaves with purple or blue flowers that can bloom all year.
Common name:Waxleaf Privet
Botanical name:Ligustrum japonicum 'Texanum'
This dense evergreen shrub of an upright habit is capable of growing as a shrub or small tree. Its dark green, leathery leaves are opposite those of a simple evergreen plant.
Common name:Myer's Asparagus
Botanical name:Asparagus densiflorus 'Myers'
An evergreen groundcover, the 'Myers' also makes an excellent hanging basket plant when larger in size. Its formal looking fronds have an even, spiral arrangement of leaflets. It is damaged by severe frosts, and looks best with at least occasional watering. -Monterey Bay Nursery
Common name:Yellow Moraea, Fortnight Lily
Botanical name:Dietes bicolor
This clumping perennial Iris relative stands 3'-4' high. It has light yellow, iris-like flowers with maroon blotches that are about 2" wide. It performs best in full sun and in soil with good drainage.
Designer: Homeowner | Outdoor Dining |
Photographer: GardenSoft |
Incorporate compost 6" into your soil to retain water, reduce compaction, feed earthworms, and provide valuable nutrients to your plants.
Check your irrigation controller once a month, and adjust as necessary.
Most plants require only one-third as much water in winter as they do in summer.
Attract, or buy beneficial insects such as ladybugs and lacewings to control pest outbreaks in your garden.