Native plant species in California

Native Sons Wholesale Nursery, located at 379 West El Campo Road in Arroyo Grande, California, is a store that specializes in growing plants that thrive in California's Mediterranean climate. With a focus on providing perennials, grasses, and shrubs that flourish in the region's moderate winter rainfall and warm dry summers, Native Sons is committed to promoting responsible gardening practices in a water-conscious environment. Drawing inspiration from native California flora and other Mediterranean regions around the world, such as Australia, South Africa, Chile, and the Mediterranean Basin, Native Sons offers a diverse selection of plants that are well-suited to the unique climate of the area. By showcasing a variety of species, the nursery aims to educate and raise awareness about the importance of planting with consideration for the environment.

Welcome to the California Native Plant Garden, a serene oasis nestled within the beautiful grounds of Sonoma State University in Rohnert Park, California. Our garden is a dedicated space celebrating the rich diversity and natural beauty of California's indigenous flora. Designed as both a park and an educational resource, the garden offers visitors the opportunity to explore a variety of native plant species that thrive in California's unique climate. Stroll through our carefully curated pathways and experience the vibrant colors, textures, and aromas of the Golden State's natural heritage. Whether you're a botany enthusiast, a student, or someone seeking a peaceful retreat, the California Native Plant Garden provides a perfect setting for relaxation, learning, and inspiration.

Welcome to Lester Rowntree Native Plant Garden, a serene oasis nestled in the heart of Carmel-by-the-Sea, California. Our park is dedicated to celebrating the beauty and diversity of native Californian flora, inspired by the pioneering work of renowned botanist Lester Rowntree. Immerse yourself in the vibrant landscapes and discover a wide array of indigenous plants that thrive in our carefully curated environment. At Lester Rowntree Native Plant Garden, we offer a peaceful retreat for nature enthusiasts, families, and anyone seeking a moment of tranquility. Stroll through our thoughtfully designed pathways and experience the seasonal blooms, unique textures, and rich colors that define California's natural heritage.

Welcome to the Cerritos College California Native Plant Sanctuary, a hidden gem nestled within the vibrant campus of Cerritos College in Norwalk, California. Located at 11110 Alondra Boulevard, our sanctuary is dedicated to the preservation and celebration of California's unique native flora. As part of our university's commitment to sustainability and ecological education, the sanctuary provides a serene and educational environment where students, faculty, and visitors can explore a diverse array of indigenous plants. Our sanctuary serves as a living laboratory for students and a peaceful retreat for nature enthusiasts, offering a firsthand experience of California's natural beauty. Whether you're a botany student seeking to deepen your understanding of plant species, a local resident looking to connect with nature, or simply a visitor eager to enjoy a tranquil walk, the Cerritos College California Native Plant Sanctuary welcomes you.

Welcome to the Sonoma State University Butterfly Garden, a serene oasis nestled in the heart of Rohnert Park, California. Located at 1801 East Cotati Avenue, our enchanting garden offers a peaceful retreat where nature lovers and curious minds can immerse themselves in the vibrant world of butterflies. As a dedicated park space, we provide a unique opportunity to explore diverse plant species that attract and support these delicate pollinators. Stroll along our thoughtfully designed pathways and discover the beauty of native flora that create a thriving habitat for a variety of butterfly species. Our garden not only serves as a sanctuary for these magnificent creatures but also as an educational resource for visitors of all ages. Through informative signage and guided tours, guests can learn about the life cycle of butterflies and the critical role they play in our ecosystem.

California Kahve is a unique cafe and store located at 1400 El Camino Real in Menlo Park, California. We have partnered with Tiny Footprint Coffee Company to bring you only the best organic, shade-grown small batch drip coffee and espresso. But that's not all - we are also dedicated to environmental sustainability and social responsibility. In collaboration with the Mindo Cloudforest Foundation, we are actively involved in reforestation efforts in the Northwestern Andes of Ecuador. By planting native tree species in heavily deforested areas, we are not only sequestering carbon from the air but also providing habitat for local bird species, reinforcing soil conservation techniques, and rebuilding water tables. Our partnership with local landowners also creates job opportunities related to the care and redevelopment of the cloud forest.

Located in Oakland, California, the Huckleberry Botanic Regional Preserve is a stunning ecological gem that showcases a unique native plant community exclusive to the East Bay. This 241-acre park represents a relic plant association that can only be found in certain areas along California's coast with specific soil and climatic conditions. The preserve's vegetation has its roots in past climates and geologic history, originating in the distant past along the southern coast of California. Today, similar vegetation can be found on the islands off the Santa Barbara coast and in isolated pockets along the mainland coast. The rock strata in the preserve contain the remains of microscopic diatoms and radiolaria, creating soil that is low in nutritional value but ideal for pioneering chaparral species.

The Ruth Bancroft Garden & Nursery is a unique institution located at 1552 Bancroft Road in Walnut Creek, California. This outdoor botanical garden and retail nursery specializes in drought-tolerant and climate-adaptive plants suitable for the East Bay microclimate. Visitors can explore a diverse collection of cacti, succulents, California native plants, and more, all set within a beautifully designed 3.5-acre garden. As a local non-profit organization, The Ruth Bancroft Garden aims to preserve Ruth Bancroft's legacy, promote education on climate-resiliency, and conserve water-conserving plant species. Memberships offer exclusive benefits, including reciprocal access to gardens across North America.

North Campus Open Space is a beautiful park located at Atlantic Court in Goleta, California. This serene and picturesque destination offers visitors a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. With its lush greenery, winding trails, and stunning views, North Campus Open Space is the perfect place to relax, unwind, and connect with nature. Whether you're looking to go for a leisurely stroll, have a picnic with family and friends, or simply enjoy the fresh air, this park is a must-visit tourist attraction in the United States.

Ken Malloy Harbor Regional Park is a beautiful and serene institution located at 25820 Vermont Avenue in Los Angeles, California, United States. This park is not just a regular park, it is also an amusement park and a popular tourist attraction. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities such as fishing, swimming, boating, sailing, canoeing, and kayaking. However, floatation and remote control water craft are prohibited in Machado Lake at this time in consideration of the habitat restoration efforts. Machado Lake, located within Ken Malloy Harbor Regional Park, is home to over 300 separate species of migratory birds. This lake plays a crucial role in the natural water habitat of Southern California for native animals and plants. Visitors are encouraged to come and enjoy the natural habitat, nature walks, and seasonal migratory birds.

Urban Forest is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 6711 Ellis Avenue in Huntington Beach, California. The institution recently received a generous donation from Chevron for the planting of 50 trees in Huntington Central Park. Visitors can celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the park in 2024 by helping to replace lost trees through donations. The Secret Garden within the park is now open to the public, and visitors can also enjoy the sight of Monarch Butterflies in November. The park is home to a variety of California-native plants and trees, and volunteers work tirelessly to maintain and enhance the green space. Visitors can support the Urban Forest through donations, volunteering, and shopping with Goodshop to contribute a percentage of purchases to HB Trees. The Huntington Beach Tree Society, a non-profit organization, has planted over 8,000 trees in and around the Urban Forest. Bird watchers can also enjoy observing various species in the expanding habitat of the park. For more information and to get involved, visit the Urban Forest website or contact [email protected].

Caroline Park is a unique park and botanical nature garden located at 320 North Poppy Road in Redlands, California. This park is a favorite among naturalists, dog walkers, picnickers, homeschoolers, walkers, and runners. The overlook terrace off Sunset Drive offers parking and a stunning 180-degree view of the surrounding mountains. While there are no restrooms or playground equipment, Caroline Park provides a one-of-a-kind park experience. Originally donated to the City of Redlands in 1929 by Olivia Phelps Stokes in memory of her sister Caroline, the park remains in its natural state as much as possible. In 1987, Dr. Harold Hill envisioned a native plant botanical park within Caroline Park, which was developed with the help of local residents, Rotary Clubs, and the City Parks Department. The park features a variety of habitats, including woodlands and Coastal Sage Scrub, a dwindling habitat in Southern California.

The San Diego Bay National Wildlife Refuge is a park located at 1080 Gunpowder Point Drive in Chula Vista, California. This refuge consists of two distinct areas where visitors can enjoy the beauty of San Diego Bay's wildlife, connected by the Bayshore Bikeway. Accessing the refuge is easy, whether you choose to ride your bike, take the bus, or drive. Limited access is available at the Sweetwater Marsh Unit, where visitors can catch a free shuttle from the Living Coast Discovery Center to access refuge trails. The Refuge protects a diverse range of endangered, threatened, migratory, and native species and their habitats within a highly urbanized coastal environment. Monthly tours are available to the public, as well as winter tours led by the San Diego Audubon Society. Habitat management techniques are used to maintain, recover, or enhance plant and wildlife values within the Refuge.

The Fort Ord National Monument, located in Marina, California, is a park and tourist attraction with a rich history, diverse habitat, and bountiful recreation opportunities. With over 86 miles of trails, visitors can hike, bike, or ride horses through rolling hills, chaparral, and oak woodlands. The area is home to a wide variety of plant and animal species, including streamside corridors, grasslands, and oak woodlands. The monument holds significance as a former U.S. Army facility from 1917-1994, serving as a major training center and deployment staging ground during the Vietnam War. Today, it remains undeveloped, offering a glimpse into the heroism and dedication of the men and women who served our nation.

The Santa Barbara Botanic Garden, located at 1212 Mission Canyon Road in Santa Barbara, California, is a beautiful park and tourist attraction. The garden features a variety of native plants and exhibits, including the 'Arriving Home' exhibit which evokes feelings of comfort and belonging. One interesting plant you may come across at the garden is the Dudleya, also known as liveforevers, a genus of about 65 species and subspecies in the stonecrop family. Visit the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden to explore and appreciate the beauty of nature in a serene and peaceful setting.

Redwood Grove Nature Preserve is a serene park located at 482 University Avenue in Los Altos, California. This hidden gem is a popular tourist attraction that offers visitors a peaceful escape into nature. The preserve is home to towering redwood trees, tranquil walking paths, and a variety of native plant and animal species. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll through the lush forest, breathe in the fresh air, and listen to the soothing sounds of nature. Whether you're looking for a relaxing retreat or a scenic spot for a picnic, Redwood Grove Nature Preserve is a must-visit destination in the heart of Silicon Valley.

Wilderness Gardens Preserve is a stunning park and tourist attraction located at 14209 California 76 in Pala, California, United States. This beautiful preserve offers visitors the opportunity to explore and immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area. With lush greenery, winding trails, and a variety of wildlife, Wilderness Gardens Preserve is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're looking for a peaceful hike, a spot for a picnic, or just a place to relax and unwind, this preserve has something for everyone. Come and experience the tranquility and serenity of Wilderness Gardens Preserve today.

Mount Sutro Open Space Reserve is a vibrant 61-acre park nestled amongst the trees in the heart of San Francisco, California. Owned by UCSF, this urban oasis offers over 5 miles of public multi-use trails for hikers, trail runners, cyclists, and dog walkers. Named after former San Francisco Mayor Adolph Sutro, the Reserve has a rich history and is home to a diverse array of rare and native plants, as well as various tree species. The Reserve is committed to sustainability and preservation, with ongoing maintenance efforts and a focus on habitat restoration. Visitors can enjoy the beauty of Rotary Meadow, a native plant garden, and explore the diverse wildlife that inhabits the area. The Sutro Stewards, in collaboration with UCSF, work to maintain and manage the trails and conservation sites within the Reserve. With a commitment to safety and sustainability, UCSF is implementing a Vegetation Management Plan to ensure the long-term health of the forest and ecosystem. Whether you're looking to explore nature, volunteer with the Sutro Stewards, or simply enjoy a peaceful escape in the city, Mount Sutro Open Space Reserve offers a unique and enriching experience for all who visit.

Located in Oakland, California, Joaquin Miller Park is a 500-acre urban oasis that offers a peaceful retreat from city life. The park features rustic woodland trails that wind through redwood groves, oak woodlands, lush creeksides, and wet meadows. Visitors can enjoy hiking, horseback riding, biking, jogging, and picnicking in this scenic setting. Dogs are welcome in the park, as long as they are kept on a leash. There are also fenced off-leash areas for both large and small dogs to play. Joaquin Miller Park is a popular spot for weddings, picnics, large group gatherings, and special events.

Great Valley Grasslands State Park is a stunning natural oasis located on Gonzaga Road in Stevinson, California. This park is a must-visit tourist attraction for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. The park is home to one of the few remaining intact examples of native grasslands in the Central Valley, making it a vital conservation area. The park is part of the larger Grasslands Ecological Area, which consists of federal, state, and private lands all managed for their wildlife values. This area represents the largest remaining contiguous block of wetlands in California, providing a habitat for numerous rare and endangered plant and animal species. Visitors may have the chance to spot the alkali sacaton grass, Delta button celery, California Tiger Salamander, and endangered vernal pool fairy shrimp and tadpole shrimp.

The Esplanade Bluff Garden in Redondo Beach, California is a beautiful park located on a small piece of property overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Originally featuring drought-tolerant landscaping, the garden has now been transformed into a hybrid native garden with a focus on pollinator-friendly plant species. Thanks to the South Bay Parkland Conservancy and the County of Los Angeles, this garden now serves as a habitat for California native species, including the El Segundo Blue Butterfly. Visitors can enjoy the garden's beauty year-round, while also learning about the importance of incorporating native plants into their own landscapes. The SBPC is grateful for the support of the County of Los Angeles, Janice Hahn, Cal Water, and the residents of the South Bay in making this project a reality. Join the Certified California Native Habitat program to help establish habitats for pollinators and learn how to turn your own land into a native habitat. Visit the Esplanade Bluff Garden to see the restoration work in progress and be inspired to create a garden full of life and beauty.

The San Diego Bay National Wildlife Refuge, located in National City, California, is a park that protects a diverse range of endangered, threatened, migratory, and native species in the urbanized coastal environment of San Diego Bay. The refuge is divided into two areas, connected by the Bayshore Bikeway, where visitors can enjoy the beautiful and unique wildlife. Limited access is available at the Sweetwater Marsh Unit, with a free shuttle service from the Living Coast Discovery Center to access refuge trails. Monthly tours are available to the public, led by the San Diego Audubon Society during wintertime. The refuge staff uses habitat management techniques to maintain and enhance plant and wildlife values, focusing on the recovery of endangered species such as the California least tern and light-footed Ridgway’s rail. The refuge is committed to conserving and protecting fish, wildlife, and plants for the benefit of the American people. Please note that the websites linked to do not guarantee compliance with accessibility requirements and do not constitute endorsement by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

The Ventura Botanical Gardens Visitors Center, located at 567 Poli Street in Ventura, California, is a world-class site with stunning views of the California coastline, Channel Islands, and Ojai’s Topa Topa peak. With over 120,000 plants representing five Mediterranean climate zones, the Gardens offer a unique opportunity to experience the vibrant colors of nature. Leashed dogs are welcome on select days, and disabled parking is available at the Welcome Center. Visitors can explore the diverse collection of plants, including endangered species, native wildflowers, and olive tree saplings. The Gardens also host events like the In Bloom Photo Contest and Plein Air event, showcasing the talent of artists and photographers. Memberships include a 'Buddy Pass' and reciprocal admissions to other gardens.

The IRWD San Joaquin Marsh Wildlife Sanctuary is a peaceful oasis nestled in the bustling Orange County, California. Covering over 300 acres of coastal freshwater wetlands, this sanctuary is a haven for nature lovers. With half of the wetlands restored to their natural state and 12 miles of scenic walking trails, it is a popular destination for those seeking a serene escape from city life. Visitors to the sanctuary can observe over 200 bird species, take leisurely walks along the trails, or simply relax and enjoy the sounds of nature under the shade of native willow trees. As a wildlife sanctuary, the marsh is a protected area where vehicles, bicycles, drones, dogs, and other animals are not allowed to ensure the well-being of the plants and animals that inhabit the area.

Cabrillo Horticulture, located on Sanders Avenue in Aptos, California, is a renowned institution offering a variety of horticulture programs. With access to top-notch facilities and experienced faculty, students can pursue 10 certificates or four associate's degrees in fields such as Greenhouse Crop Production, Organic Farm Inspection, and Landscape Design. The industry outlook for horticulture is strong, with high demand for skilled professionals in various areas such as precision agriculture and plant science. In addition to academic programs, Cabrillo Horticulture also serves as a community resource with events, volunteer opportunities, and a Farmers Market booth where locally grown produce and plants are sold. The Environmental Horticulture Center and Botanic Gardens, situated on 11 scenic acres, provide a picturesque setting for learning and community activities. The center includes a community building, lecture room, classroom, and state-of-the-art nursery facilities, including greenhouses and raised beds.

Santa Margarita Ecological Reserve, managed by San Diego State University, is a pristine natural area located in Temecula, California. Covering over 4,000 acres of diverse habitats, including oak woodlands, chaparral, and riparian zones, the reserve serves as a living laboratory for research and education in ecology and environmental science. Students and researchers have the opportunity to study a wide range of plant and animal species in their native habitats, making it an ideal location for hands-on learning and fieldwork. The reserve also offers hiking trails and guided tours for visitors to explore and appreciate the beauty and biodiversity of Southern California's natural landscapes.

Tolowa Dunes State Park, located on Kellogg Road in Crescent City, California, is a stunning natural attraction that showcases some of the best wetlands habitat on the northern coast of California. This ancient sand dune complex has transformed into various ecological communities, including ocean beach, river, sand dunes, wooded ridges, and wetlands. Visitors can explore the diverse wildlife and plant life that call this park home, including migrating birds like ducks, geese, and swans. The park offers opportunities for fishing in the Smith River, where salmon, steelhead, and cutthroat trout can be found. Campers can enjoy the basic amenities at two primitive campgrounds, as well as a ride-in horse camp and walk-in sites. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the variety of bird species, wildflowers, and marine mammals that can be observed in the area.

Mountain Lake Park, located at 98 Funston Avenue in San Francisco, California, is a peaceful and beautiful tourist attraction. It is a refuge where visitors can spot native plants and wildlife, including birds, turtles, and frogs. The park features restrooms, picnic tables, a playground, and a trail connection. Mountain Lake is a unique gem in San Francisco, as it is one of the city's last natural lakes. Visitors can enjoy a quiet outdoor experience and learn about the natural history of the area. The park is a great place for families to spend time together, with a playground and restrooms nearby. The park's restrooms have paved pathway access, making it accessible to all visitors.

Marina Dunes Preserve is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 3325 Dunes Drive in Marina, California, United States. The coastal dunes along the south Monterey Bay create a unique and constantly changing landscape that is home to a diverse array of plant and animal species. The park district is working to restore and protect the native vegetation in order to stabilize the dunes and enhance wildlife habitat. The preserve was once an abandoned sand mining site, but has since been transformed into a public access area for visitors to enjoy the natural beauty of the Monterey Bay seashore. Visitors are encouraged to stay on designated trails, respect restoration efforts, and help preserve the delicate ecosystem of the dunes.

Water Canyon Campground is a hidden gem nestled in a canyon in California, United States. This campground offers stunning views of the surrounding islands, access to amazing hiking trails, and a beautiful white sand beach nearby. Located 40 nautical miles from the Channel Islands National Park visitor center in Ventura, Santa Rosa Island is a haven for nature lovers. Santa Rosa Island is the second largest island in California, boasting a diverse array of plant and animal species, including some found nowhere else on earth. The island is rich in history, with archeological sites dating back to the Chumash Native Americans and remnants of past occupations by European explorers, missionaries, ranchers, and the US military.