Common name:Catalina Cherry
Botanical name:Prunus ilicifolia ssp. lyonii
Catalina Cherry (Prunus ilicifolia ssp. Lyonii) is a fast-growing California native tree that is perfect for a water-wise garden. This tree can grow up to 40' tall and 30' wide, but it can be kept at a smaller size if it is managed by a licensed arborist. The tree is evergreen and is a great selection for gardens that are designed to attract wildlife. After blooming in spring, flowers are followed by a red fruit that is attractive to birds. To keep the maintenance as low as possible, it is best to plant this tree in a location that can absorb the fruit droppings, as the fruit tends to stain. Since it is a fast grower, it should be pruned frequently when it is young to encourage the desired shape. Once it reaches a mature size, leave the pruning to a licensed arborist. This tree should be planted at least four feet away from any hardscape areas, 10 feet from structures such as houses and buildings, and not near any powerlines. Shrubs and perennials should be planted about three feet away from this tree. It should be irrigated for about 45 minutes once a week when using most in-line drip irrigation systems.
Common name:White Lady Marguerite
Botanical name:Chrysanthemum frutescens 'White Lady'
This perennial has bright green foliage and produces an abundance of round, pure white flowers.
Photographer: GardenSoft
Practice grass-cycling by leaving short grass clippings on lawns after mowing, so that nutrients and organic matter are returned to the soil.
Remove irrigation water and fertilizer from areas where you don't want weeds to grow.