Showcase Features: This professionally-designed front yard garden is a good example of how one can incorporate natives into an existing landscape while preserving existing mature trees and shrubs.

Other Garden Attractions: An attractive flagstone path divides this garden into several zones. To the right of the path an attractive small meadow features Berkeley sedge (until recently thought to be native) and Siskiyou Blue fescue. Island snapdragon provides a transition between the meadow and the large existing non-native privet hedge along the property line. To the left of the path, hummingbird sage, coyote mint, douglas iris, yarrow, monkeyflower, and coffeeberry provide color and interest. Island alum root and pink- flowering currant enjoy the shady area near the house under a mature tree. A small bench provides a resting place to sit and enjoy the garden.

A sunny strip median to the left of the driveway features two varieties of salvias: Bees' Bliss and Dara's Choice. Everett's Choice California fuchsia, coyote mint, California poppies, and red flowered buckwheat complete the plantings in this bed. A dry creek separates this area into two planting areas, a habitat for bees.

Gardening for Wildlife: Wildlife are invited into this garden with shelter, food and water (provided in the back yard). Existing mature shrubs provide cover, while newer plantings provide nectar and seeds.

Years of CA Native Gardening at this Location: 5

Garden Size: 800 sq ft

Designer: Stephanie Curtis, Curtis Horticulture
Installer: Stephanie Curtis, Curtis Horticulture

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