Category Archives: Plant of the Month

December Plant of the Month: Grevillea thelemanniana

We love this plant, Grevillea thelemanniana, the Spider Net Grevillea, for its blooms that pop up year-round. Since it is a winter bloomer, we especially start to appreciate it in winter when the majority of our garden is devoid of color! Try this Australian native for some color in your own garden this December. This grevillea takes…
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Hellebores: January Plant of the Month

Hellebores are delightful perennials to have in your garden and are nicknamed Christmas Rose, as they will add some color in the dull winter months. Most hellebores prefer moist but well-drained soil and tolerate freezing temperatures. [caption id="attachment_758" align="alignright" width="204"] Flowers from Helleborus species and varieties[/caption] They are considered deer and rabbit resistant. You might call the hellebore's flowers…
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December Plant Spotlight: Ceanothus maritimus ‘Frosty Dawn’

Ceanothus maritimus 'Frosty Dawn' is a low-growing shrub, reaching 2' tall and up to 6' wide (though likely keeping to a compact 3' to 5' width). Here on the Central Coast, it's going to thrive in  coastal landscapes, and can also grow well with well-drained soils in other climates. It takes full sun along the coast, but…
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November Plant of the Month: Pistacia chinensis

Pistacia chinensis (the Chinese Pistache) is a deciduous tree that will stop you in your tracks this November. It offers good fall color, namely gold through fiery reds, even in mild climates. In deep soils, Pistacia chinensis can live off almost no water, which was great during our California drought, but you won't have to worry…
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