The 30 Best Native plants in California

Rose Haven Heritage Garden is a charming park and tourist attraction nestled in the heart of Temecula, California. Located at 30592 Jedediah Smith Road, this hidden gem is a beautiful oasis where visitors can escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse themselves in the serene beauty of nature. The garden features a stunning display of roses, meticulously maintained pathways, and a variety of native plants and flowers. Whether you're looking for a peaceful place to relax, take a leisurely stroll, or simply enjoy the beauty of the outdoors, Rose Haven Heritage Garden is the perfect destination for nature lovers of all ages. Come and experience the tranquility and beauty of this hidden treasure in Temecula.

Undeveloped Park Open Space in Chula Vista, California offers a serene and natural setting for visitors to enjoy the great outdoors. This park provides a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, with plenty of open space for picnics, leisurely strolls, and outdoor activities. Visitors can immerse themselves in the beauty of nature, with lush greenery, native plants, and wildlife all around. Whether you're looking for a quiet place to relax or a spot to explore and connect with nature, Undeveloped Park Open Space is the perfect destination.

La Mesa Community Garden is a vibrant park located at 5080 Memorial Drive in La Mesa, California. This institution serves as a gathering place for residents of all ages to come together and cultivate a sense of community through gardening. The garden offers individual plots for community members to grow their own fruits, vegetables, and flowers, as well as communal areas for events and workshops. Visitors can enjoy the beauty of the garden, learn about sustainable gardening practices, and connect with their neighbors in a peaceful and welcoming environment. Whether you are an experienced gardener or just starting out, La Mesa Community Garden is a place where everyone can come together to enjoy the benefits of nature and community.

The 34th Street Canyon Open Space is a serene park located in San Diego, California, United States. Nestled in a canyon, this open space offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Visitors can enjoy scenic walking trails, lush greenery, and a variety of native plants and wildlife. Whether you're looking for a quiet place to relax or a spot to reconnect with nature, the 34th Street Canyon Open Space is the perfect destination.

Mission Valley Hillsides Open Space is a stunning park located in San Diego, California, United States. This beautiful open space offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life, with scenic views of the surrounding hillsides and valleys. Visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, and picnicking in this serene natural setting. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife and native plants, making it a great spot for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're looking for a quiet place to relax or a challenging trail to conquer, Mission Valley Hillsides Open Space has something for everyone.

The Water Conservation Garden is a beautiful park located at 12122 Cuyamaca College Drive West in El Cajon, California. This institution is dedicated to promoting water conservation and sustainable landscaping practices. Visitors can explore the various exhibits and gardens that showcase drought-tolerant plants, water-wise irrigation systems, and other environmentally friendly techniques. The Water Conservation Garden is a wonderful place to learn about how we can all work together to protect our precious water resources for future generations.

The Barona Cultural Center & Museum, located at 1095 Barona Road in Lakeside, California, is a museum and tourist attraction dedicated to preserving and presenting the local Kumeyaay-Diegueño Native culture. As the first museum on an Indian reservation in San Diego County, the Barona Museum offers a unique educational experience for visitors of all ages. The museum's collection showcases thousands of years of history, with some objects dating back as far as 10,000 years, highlighting the artistry and skill of the region's first inhabitants. The institution was honored with the 2019 National Medal for Museum and Library Service, recognizing its significant contributions to the community. Admission to the museum is free, and visitors can explore exhibits, a Native Plant Garden, and products inspired by Kumeyaay people. The museum also offers various learning opportunities, including outreach programs and exhibitions from local schools.

The UC Davis Arboretum Teaching Nursery is a hidden gem located at 1046 Garrod Drive in Davis, California. This institution is not just a park, but also a popular tourist attraction where visitors can explore a vast collection of plants and learn about sustainable gardening practices. The nursery is dedicated to providing hands-on learning experiences for students and the community, offering workshops and educational programs on horticulture and plant conservation. Whether you are a plant enthusiast or just looking for a peaceful place to relax, the UC Davis Arboretum Teaching Nursery is a must-visit destination in Northern California.

The UC Davis Arboretum Gazebo is a charming and picturesque spot located on Garrod Drive in Davis, California. This institution is part of the larger UC Davis Arboretum and Public Garden, which spans over 5300 acres and includes a variety of demonstration gardens and scientific collections. The Arboretum and Public Garden aims to inspire human potential and promote environmental stewardship by providing a space for education, research, and community engagement. The institution also acknowledges the land's history as the ancestral home of the Patwin people and works to honor their heritage through various installations and initiatives.

Located at 12770 Glass Beach Drive in Rancho Cordova, California, the Labyrinth Community Park is a 7-acre neighborhood park that opened in the Fall of 2020. It provides a peaceful green space for residents of the Sequoia at Cypress neighborhood to relax and unwind. This park offers various amenities, including a zipline play equipment, a children's demonstration garden, and a labyrinth - one of the region's only ones. With meandering pathways, native plants, and a multi-use turf area, the park is the perfect place to enjoy nature and spend time outdoors. To reserve a space at the park, visitors can complete a reservation request online and pay the required fees. For more information, contact the park at 916-842-3300 or inquire about rentals at 916-369-9844.

Clipper Community Garden, located at 855 Clipper Terrace in San Francisco, California, is a beautiful park managed by the San Francisco Recreation and Parks Department (SFRPD). This community garden is part of a network of 42 gardens across the city where volunteers can grow their own produce and ornamental plants. At Clipper Community Garden, individuals can participate by requesting an individual plot through a wait-list system. These plots are allotted to individuals, with some common areas for shared perennial herbs, native plants, and fruit trees. The garden may have regularly scheduled workdays, self-imposed annual dues, and a volunteer garden coordinator or steering committee to manage membership and plot assignments.

The Gardens at Lake Merritt is a seven-acre park located at 666 Bellevue Avenue in Oakland, California. It is a popular tourist attraction and is situated in Lakeside Park, the nation's first wildlife refuge. The park features themed gardens, including the impressive Bonsai Garden which is home to some of the finest bonsai on the west coast. The BGLM, the only major all-volunteer bonsai garden in the country, houses important bonsai specimens from across the US. Additionally, the Gardens at Lake Merritt promote Bay-Friendly Gardening, which focuses on sustainable practices and using plants adapted to local conditions. The collection of rhododendron species and hybrids at the park showcases the interplay of a favorable climate, dedicated volunteers and staff, and the beauty of the plants themselves. Visit the Gardens at Lake Merritt to experience the beauty and tranquility of nature in the heart of Oakland.

Newbury Gateway Park, located at 2250 Michael Drive in Thousand Oaks, California, is a beautiful seven-acre park that offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The park, which was acquired in 1984, features native plants, including an oak grove and two dedicated oak trees near the entrance, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers. In 1999, four acres of the park were developed into a neighborhood park with funding from a cooperative agreement with the City of Thousand Oaks. In 2011, CRPD entered into easements with the city for the construction of an infiltration swale, which helps capture and filter storm water to prevent flooding at Newbury Road and Michael Drive.

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.

Located at 1020 Ranch Road in Loleta, California, the Humboldt Bay National Wildlife Refuge is a stunning park and tourist attraction that showcases some of the most beautiful and biologically diverse coastal habitats in the world. The refuge utilizes a variety of land management tools based on the best available science to ensure a balanced conservation approach that benefits both wildlife and people. Management activities at the refuge focus on research, monitoring, and protection of wildlife, as well as the maintenance of a natural and functioning ecosystem. The U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service collaborates with tribes, other agencies, and the public to ensure the long-term health and viability of native plant and animal populations.

Sue-meg State Park, located at 4150 Patricks Point Drive in Trinidad, California, is a must-visit tourist attraction on the north coast. This one-square-mile park offers a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy, from hunting for agates to exploring tidepools and watching seals, sea lions, and migrating whales. The park is densely packed with potential adventures, including a visitor center, native plant garden, and a reconstructed Yurok plank-house village. Visitors can reserve campsites and lodging up to six months in advance, with a maximum stay limit of 15 days per calendar year. Dogs are not allowed on the trails, except for service animals. For those interested in staying informed about events in north coast parks, the North Coast Redwoods Facebook and Instagram pages are great resources.

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.

The Carolyn Parr Nature Center, located at 3107 Browns Valley Road in Napa, California, is a museum, park, and tourist attraction dedicated to educating the community about Napa's native natural environment. Named after Carolyn Parr, whose generous bequest established the center in 1981, the institution is run by volunteers and offers free admission to all visitors. The center features biome-based exhibits representing Napa's habitats, a Raptor display, a naturalist library, geological displays, and interactive quizzes. Group tours and school classes can be scheduled by calling the center during operating hours, which are Wednesdays from 10 AM-4 PM and Saturdays and Sundays from 1 PM-4 PM. The center also hosts guided hikes in nearby Westwood Hills Park, providing visitors with a closer look at the local flora and fauna. If you're interested in learning more about Napa's natural resources or becoming a volunteer, the Carolyn Parr Nature Center welcomes you to explore and get involved.

Sonoma Ecology Center is a renowned tourist attraction located at 15000 Arnold Drive in Eldridge, California, United States. This institution is dedicated to promoting environmental conservation and education through various programs and initiatives. Visitors can explore the beautiful grounds, participate in guided tours, and learn about the diverse ecosystems of Sonoma County. The center also offers workshops, events, and volunteer opportunities for those interested in getting involved in environmental stewardship. Come visit Sonoma Ecology Center and discover the wonders of the natural world!

Sonoma Botanical Garden is a stunning park and tourist attraction located at 12841 Sonoma Highway in Glen Ellen, California, United States. This beautiful garden is home to a diverse collection of plants and flowers from around the world, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and botany enthusiasts. Visitors can stroll through the tranquil pathways, admire the colorful blooms, and learn about the importance of conservation and sustainability. With its picturesque setting and educational opportunities, Sonoma Botanical Garden is the perfect place to relax and connect with the natural world.

Rocky Oaks Park is a hidden gem nestled among the hustle and bustle of modern life in Malibu, California. This tranquil park features a seasonal pond and a variety of plant communities that provide a habitat for local wildlife. Take a leisurely hike along the loop trails and enjoy picturesque views of the pond, once used as a watering hole for cattle but now a vital water source for native animals such as rabbits, coyotes, and deer. Plants like tule, cattail, and willow flourish in and around the pond, while water birds like buffleheads and mallards gracefully glide across the water. The park serves as a rest stop and commuting area for animals traveling between habitats in the Santa Monica Mountains.

Children's Forest is a magical park located at 32573 California 18 in Running Springs, California. This enchanting institution is dedicated to providing a fun and educational outdoor experience for children of all ages. With its lush greenery, winding trails, and interactive exhibits, Children's Forest is the perfect place for kids to learn about nature and wildlife while having a great time. Whether they're exploring the native plants, spotting birds, or playing on the playground, children will love their time at this unique park. Come visit Children's Forest and let your little ones' imaginations run wild in the great outdoors!

Tribal Trading Post is a unique home goods store located at 587 Palm Canyon Drive in Borrego Springs, California. We offer a wide selection of handcrafted items, decor, and accessories inspired by tribal cultures from around the world. Our store is a treasure trove of one-of-a-kind pieces that will add a touch of global flair to any home. Visit us today to discover the perfect statement piece for your space.

Mission Trail Park is a stunning 34-acre nature preserve located in Carmel-by-the-Sea, California. This park is a popular tourist attraction, offering three miles of hiking trails and a beautiful native plant garden. The park features diverse habitats including a Monterey pine forest, coast live oak woodland, wetland, willow riparian corridor, and coastal prairie. Established in 1979, Mission Trail Park was designed for passive recreational use, including dog walking. The park boundaries include the historic Flanders Mansion, the Lester Rowntree Native Plant Garden, and a picturesque meadow off Martin Road. The city actively manages the park, working to remove invasive plants, restore wetlands, and improve the trail system for visitors to enjoy. Whether you're a nature lover, hiker, or simply looking for a peaceful retreat, Mission Trail Park is a must-visit destination in California.

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.

Located at 210 Pigeon Point Road in Pescadero, California, the HI Pigeon Point Lighthouse Hostel offers a unique lodging experience at the foot of a historic 116-foot-tall lighthouse. Whether you're seeking a peaceful coastal retreat or an educational adventure by the sea, this hostel has something for everyone. With shared dorms, private rooms, and vacation rental-style accommodations, guests can enjoy stunning ocean views and beautiful native plants on the scenic grounds. Families traveling with children will appreciate the on-site tide pools, harbor seals, and secluded beach, perfect for exploring and playing. Surrounded by hiking and coastal trails, the hostel is also a designated dark sky preserve, making it an ideal spot for stargazing.

Marin Treks Natural History Museum is a fascinating institution located at 1559H South Novato Boulevard in Novato, California, United States. This museum is a must-visit tourist attraction for nature enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Explore the diverse exhibits showcasing the natural beauty and rich history of Marin County and beyond. From interactive displays to educational programs, visitors of all ages will be captivated by the wonders of the natural world. Come and discover the wonders of Marin Treks Natural History Museum today!

San Francisco Botanical Garden, located at 1199 9th Avenue in San Francisco, California, is a stunning institution that combines the beauty of a park with the educational experience of a museum. Visitors can explore 55 acres of landscaped gardens and open spaces showcasing over 8,000 different plant species from around the world. The Garden offers guided walks for families, downloadable maps for self-guided tours, and unique outdoor venues for events. One of the highlights of the Garden is the Conservatory of Flowers, the oldest public wood-and-glass conservatory in North America, housing a rare and exotic plant collection. The Japanese Garden, the oldest operating public Japanese Garden in North America, offers a tranquil and serene escape. The Andean Cloud Forest Collection, showcasing plants from the Andes Mountains, and the Australian collection with its unique species are must-see attractions.