Coastal Plants of Sea Ranch, California

Last weekend, we went to Sea Ranch and hiked across the coastal bluffs. It was a symphony of golden grasses, wild flowers, and broad leaf shrubs - all popping off a backdrop of dark green cypress trees and weathered wood houses. I thought of the teachings of Piet Oudolf and John Greenley, and loved this deeply contextual example of their ideas at work.

Please excuse the lack of scientific accuracy. I won't try to identify all these plants, but just call out their aesthetic characteristics. The intention here is to eventually find similar plants in cultivation, that could achieve a similar effect, in combination.

A) Monterey Cypress (Cupressus macrocarpa) - This provides wind protection and much needed dark green to make gold, silver and green elements pop.
B) Rhamnus californica - These bright green round mounds stand out amongst the vertical golden grasses. And, they bridge the height difference between the trees and the grassy plains.
C) Lupinus arboreus - How wonderful these were! Their silvery foliage, and their bright yellow flowers provide a great contrast and offer graphic interest close up.
D) Heracleum lanatum (Cow Parsnip)  - At eye-level, these made the biggest statements in the landscape. Their broad leaves look incredible next to golden grasses, and low small-leaved shrubs - especially along pathways. And the shape of their flowers provide additional visual interest. And, they are available at Annie's Annuals!
E) Pteridium aquilinum var. pubescens (perhaps) - These green feathery ferns mix with the golden grasses in huge intermingled swaths. Does this indicate the presence of water?
F) Holcus lanatus and Elymus glaucus (perhaps) - Wheat-like pinkish grasses mix with tail-like golden grasses, forming a tonal textural tapestry.
G) Pink Penstemons or Salvias - Not sure which one these are, but their broad green leaves and pink flower stalks were found nestled in low grasses and ferns.
H) These green fuzzy sage-like plants co-mingle with golden grasses and Rhamnus, along the pathway.
I) Achillea millefolium - The interesting flower structure and white coloring peek out among the grasses.
J) Here, Achillea mixes with green broad leafed plants and lower bunchier grasses.
K) Thistle - Co-mingling with Rhamnus and a softer, luminous grass. Together, they were heavenly!
I) Pine - I found this guy a little further inland, closer to the Cypress trees and other piney family members.

I loved the dance of similarity vs contrast. Many times, two plants would be in stark contrast, with one additional plant, bridging the gap with similar color and/or form. Stay tuned for suggestions of cultivated counterparts and combinations.

Arctostaphylos 'Emerald Carpet'

Here's a bronze/green plant palette for Arctostaphylos 'Emerald Carpet' (B). Together, it makes for a tidy, full sun, low water, low maintenance garden. 

Shown above are A) Phormium 'Bronze Baby,' C) Sesleria autumnalis, D) Laurus nobilis 'MonRik,' E) Quercus rubra and F) Carex pansa. While silver isn't shown here, it can be introduced into this palette with plants like Carex oshimensis 'Evergold' and Miscanthus sinensis 'Morning Light'.

Arctostaphylos Groundcovers

I haven't yet fully grasped the difference between the Arctostaphylos groundcovers. There are 4 (if not more) in wide use, and I know they differ in coloring as well as size. Finally, I'm gonna sort it out for myself.

From lowest to highest:

A) Arctostaphylos uva-ursi 'Wood's Compact' (2-3" H X 3-4' W)
The lowest of the groundcovers. Unlike the others, which are roughly 1' high, 'Wood's Compact' is really low at only 2-3". This seems ridiculously low... but I'm sure that there are some instances where something this low is needed... perhaps in between pavers or playing a secondary role to statement succulents and shrubs.

B) Arctostaphylos 'Emerald Carpet' (<1' x 3-5' W)
This is definitely greener, so it is aptly named. It would go well in a drought-tolerant garden with a lusher look. This would look great in a plant palette with other lime greens, silvers, dark greens and bronzes.

C) Arctostaphylos uva-ursi 'Point Reyes' (1' H x 15' W)
This one has a wonderful gray-green olive color... and can go well in a large, full sun, dry, sprawling California garden, where a lot of coverage is good. This beauty can go 15' wide, so it certainly isn't for the typical residential garden. But, it would be great for commercial or public landscapes.

D) Arctostaphylos edmundsii 'Carmel Sur' (1-2' H x 6' W)
The highest of these groundcovers, this minty-green beauty can grow up to 2' high. I think this is perhaps my favorite of these groundcovers... it's higher than the rest, but still compact in width, and has a great blue-green coloring that pairs nicely with gray-green and blue-green plants.

Tree #10) Arbutus unedo

A few weekends ago I discovered the beautiful Glen Oaks, a motor lodge in Big Sur. As usual, what drew me in was the landscape design, and specifically the large Arbutus unedo's that could be spotted from the road. We pulled over and I went in for closer inspection. Two (or was it three?) mature and well-pruned Arbutus were clustered in the entry. They were a part of a larger cohesive planting palette, held together by a red-green color scheme. Incidentally, this scheme was also echoed throughout the experience, including signage, architectural materials and interior design. These people weren't messing around.

In addition to the Arbutus unedo, red-green plants included Achillea millefolium (B), Leucodendron 'Safari Sunset' (B), Myrica californica (C), Berberis 'Green Spire' (C) and Euonymus fortunei 'Emerald n Gold' (D). These bold choices were tempered by the soothing neutral effects of Lomandra 'Breeze' (C) and Pittosporum 'Marjorie Channon' (top image, left side).

A planting design like this reminds me to keep the palette clear and focused. The viewer should be able to 'sense' what the theme is, even if they aren't able to articulate it. And, it should be immediate. Clear, uncluttered, and cohesive.

Details:
Botanical Name: Arbutus unedo
Common Name: Dwarf Strawberry Tree
Family: Ericaceae
Exposure: Full Sun
Irrigation: Low Water Needs
Flower Time: Fall to Late Winter
Height: 20-30’
Width: 15-40’
Availability: San Marcos Growers

Tree #9) Quercus palustris

I see Quercus palustris used as a street tree throughout Berkeley and Emeryville. It's no wonder because it is extremely tolerant of dry and wet conditions, most diseases, and urban pollution. On those qualities alone, it is extremely useful to the landscape designer. But, it is equally as attractive. With its beautifully lobed leaves, pyramidal shape, and seasonal interest, it is another no-brainer. (Planted in a swale in mostly dry/sometimes wet California seems to make particular sense.)

Interestingly, it also has a fastigiate cultivar, 'Green Spire'. It's quite beautiful, in a grid formation, paired with red grasses (below).

Details:
Botanical Name: Quercus palustris
Common Name: Pin Oak
Family: Fagaceae
Exposure: Full Sun
Irrigation: Medium Water Needs
Flower Time: April
Height: 60-70’
Width: 25-40’
Availability: J. Frank Schmidt & Son Co.

Tree #8) Garrya elliptica

Drawn to its weeping form and romantic feeling, I'd love to see Garrya elliptica used in a modern context (e.g. accompanying the form and materials of modern architecture, such as concrete, steel and glass). I think it would be so interesting and unexpected... for example, softening the brutality of a huge mass of concrete. It has a similar feeling as the overused Wisteria, and would look amazing as espalier or draped over a steel arbor structure.

Below, I've paired Garrya elliptica (A) with some possible textural compliments, extending the concept of softness and romance throughout. I've been trying to incorporate more contrast into my palettes too, so there is also the requisite dark green and silver. Pairings include B) Calocedrus decurrens, C) Salvia apiana, D) Laurus nobilis, E) Carex testacea 'Prairie Fire' and F) Rubus pentalobus. Not complete, but its the start of something interesting. Now, if I could only build the architecture! Something between modern architecture and roman ruins...

Of note, Garrya elliptica has low water requirements, and can take sun or shade - amazing!

Details:
Botanical Name: Garrya elliptica 'Evie'
Common Name: Evie's Silk Tassel Bush
Family: Garryaceae
Exposure: Sun or Shade
Irrigation: Low Water Needs, no summer water
Flower Time: Winter/Spring
Height: 8-12’
Width: 8-12’
Availability: San Marcos Growers

Tree #7) Prunus caroliniana

At a private residence in San Francisco, Ron Lutsko uses Prunus caroliniana as the backbone of the garden. Contained by steel, it is hedged into walls that enclose outdoor rooms.

Prunus caroliniana is tall enough to provide a solid privacy barrier and its dense foliage makes it well-suited as a wind, noise and visual screen. It is also very adaptable to shearing. It has a bright and clean appearance and unobtrusive white flowers. For all these reasons, this plant is a no-brainer for the modern garden.

Details:
Botanical Name: Prunus caroliniana 'Monus'
Common Name: Bright 'N Tight™ Carolina Laurel
Family: Rosaceae
Exposure: Partial to full sun
Irrigation: Medium Water Needs
Flower Time: Spring
Height: 8-10’
Width: 6-8’
Availability: Monrovia

Tree #6) Bambusa malingensis

I'm fortunate to work for this talented landscape designer, Stefan Thuilot. Stefan only uses very stable plants, so I sensed this beautiful, clumping bamboo (Bambusa malingensis) would be a good one to know about. While bamboo isn't technically a tree, I felt I could include it here since we covered Bambusa oldhamii during the semester. Bambusa malingensis reaches up to 40' high and can be used as a screen or wind break.

Like 'Golden Goddess' Bamboo, it is quite yellow in coloring, and stands out quite a bit in the landscape. Here, it is effectively sandwiched between dark green trees (back) and a dark, decorative fence (front). The plants in the front add additional layering, without competing for too much attention. The fence is really the star here, and together the elements make a restful yet dynamic composition.

Details:
Botanical Name: Bambusa malingensis
Common Name: Seabreeze Bamboo
Family: Poaceae
Exposure: Full Sun
Irrigation: Medium Water Needs
Flower Time: Infrequent
Height: 25-40’
Width: Clumping
Availability: Unknown

Tree #5) Tilia cordata 'Green Spire'

In order to understand which trees are commonly used in the design world, Andrea Cochran's work seems like an appropriate place to start. Above, you can see her work for the Ackley residence, with Tilia cordata 'Green Spire' in an allee.

These trees are known for being tidy and low maintenance, making it appropriate near paving, decks and pools. They also have subtle clusters of fragrant yellow flowers, which is great when you want an understated tree. And, it has the seasonal variation to bring magic to the garden.

In addition, it is a moderate grower, and is relatively pest free. For these reasons, this tree may be my new go-to! And, with its medium-texture leaves, it would look great in a palette with fine foliaged plants.

Details:
Botanical Name: Tilia cordata 'Green Spire'
Common Name: 'Greenspire' Littleleaf Linden
Family: Tiliaceae
Exposure: Full Sun to Light Shade
Irrigation: Medium Water Needs
Flower Time: Early Summer
Height: 40-60’
Width: 35-50’
Availability: Boething Treeland Farms

Tree #4) Cedrus atlantica 'Glauca Pendula'

Above are two beautiful design applications using Cedrus atlantica 'Glauca Pendula'. This is such a striking plant, and I've been longing to use it in a modern context. It is wonderful massed along side sculpture (because it is sculpture!). And, it is dramatic arched over a concrete entry way, framing a bold graphic feature of Scarpa's architecture. I love that it is paired with a green trailing vine as well. This takes away some of the cold and hard qualities of the concrete. What I love about these two examples is that neither of them are sad. And this tree tends to have that effect.

I also love the pairing above (Agave spp. and Coleonema pulchellum 'Sunset Gold'). The agave picks up on the icy blue coloring of the cedar, and the somberness that this color palette might have is awakened by the shocking yellow of the coleonema. And the dark metallic gray pots make the perfect backdrop.

Details:
Botanical Name: Cedrus atlantica 'Glauca Pendula'
Common Name: Weeping Blue Atlas Cedar
Family: Pinaceae
Exposure: Full Sun
Irrigation: Low Water Needs
Flower Time: Insignificant
Height: 15-20’
Width: 15-20’
Availability: Monrovia

Tree #3) Acacia stenophylla

The beautiful specimen shown in the top image is an Acacia stenophylla in a narrow planting bed in Berkeley. Over a year or so, it has gone from a few gangly looking young trees, to a full, 10 foot high, green billowy screen. It's very effective in hiding the cars and asphalt lot behind it.

Currently, the trunks of these trees are barely visible. I'm assuming that with age, its trunk will extend upwards, taking the screening with it. Perhaps, if the lower branches aren't taken off, it can continue to stay as a screen. This remains to be seen. And, unfortunately, there are no examples online of this tree being used as a screen.

But I think there is a lot of potential here. It doesn't look so substantial as a single tree, and it is hardly a focal point as it is a bit gangly. But, when massed together, it could serve as a really nice screen within a larger garden design. I've explored the concept of a 'weeping threshold/screen' below.

I'm excited to incorporate this into future work, while keeping an eye on the ones in Berkeley and seeing how they mature.

Details:
Botanical Name: Acacia stenophylla
Common Name: Shoe-String Acacia
Family: Fabaceae
Exposure: Full Sun
Irrigation: Low Water Needs
Flower Time: Spring
Height: 20-30’
Width: 10-20’
Availability: San Marcos Growers

Tree #2) Cupressus sempervirens 'Monshel'

I'm drawn to the Italian Cypress and its ability to create striking drama and rhythm in the landscape. However, its typically used in traditional designs, which is a turn off. Recently, I saw it used in a modern design, which has gotten me really excited (image below).

As you can see, its used on a hillside (so fitting), along with shrubby masses (perhaps Westringia) and the statement-making Yucca rostrata. Everything about this image is singing to me... and I think here's why. The palette is so restrained, and limited to form, color and rhythm. In terms of form, there are two striking vertical forms, and one wide rounded shrubby form. The 3 yuccas in the front echo the pattern of the cypresses in the back. And, the one in the planter nicely breaks up that pattern and melds together foreground and background, left and right of the stairway, etc. The varying heights and similar colors (bluish greens), bring this composition together. And, I'm reminded that grade changes can be dramatized with plant verticality, rhythm, and lots of restraint.

The corten steel planters and stair risers (covered in crushed granite) are also so beautiful and an important part of the composition. The red of the corten compliments the greens of the landscape. And the brightness of the crushed granite contrasts the darkness of both the corten and plantings. If this were a movie, and I were a movie critic, the man would be standing in his chair clapping.

Details:
Botanical Name: Cupressus sempervirens 'Monshel'
Common Name: Tiny Tower® Italian Cypress
Family: Cupressaceae
Exposure: Full Sun
Irrigation: Low Water Needs
Flower Time: Insignificant
Height: 25-30’
Width: 3’
Availability: Monrovia

Tree #1) Robinia pseudoacacia 'Lace Lady'

I've selected this tree for its interesting twisted foliage, contorted branching form, and its potential to add interest to the garden. I love its minty, pale green color too. And, its flowers are white and not too garish - which is right up my alley. In its deciduous state, its contorted branches take center stage. And, like others in the Fabaceae family, it has legumes that persist on the bare branches, adding another layer of interest.

Since it only grows about 15 feet high and wide, it may be limited to applications in smaller garden areas. It would be well used in a raised planter, underplanted with low fine textured shrubs like grasses. Its form and color vaguely remind me of a grapevine, and I think it could work well in a Sonoma-inspired palette, including B) Muhlenbergia rigens, C) Vitis 'Roger's Red', and D) Cercis occidentalis (a Fabaceae family member). These green tones would compliment golden crushed granite, low stacked stone walls, and a splashy water feature. It could also look great grown over a trellis or doorway.

Details:
Botanical Name: Robinia pseudoacacia 'Lace Lady'
Common Name: Twisty Baby™ Dwarf Black Locust
Family: Fabaceae
Exposure: Full Sun
Irrigation: Medium Water Needs
Flower Time: Spring
Height: 15’
Width: 15’
Availability: Monrovia

#25) Cupressus macrocarpa 'Saligna Aurea'

While researching the cultivar 'Aurea' for class, I stumbled upon this beauty – a Golden Weeping Monterey Cypress. Apparently, it looks a little gangly when it is young, but with time, it becomes quite the specimen. There is one on Colusa Avenue that I've admired, and now I finally know what it is!

I was afraid that it might be a slow grower, but it's not – it's fast. It likes full sun, is drought-tolerant, and fits into my new favorite category of woodsy, sun-loving plants. I could see it as a background specimen, nestled between darker plants in back, and shorter broad-leafed plants in front. Agaves, aloes and yuccas could work nicely.

Devil Mountain carries the straight species, 'Saligna Aurea' (A), as well as 'Fine Gold' (B), which I've included here in case you were curious about it. 

Details:

Biological Name: Cupressus macrocarpa 'Aurea Saligna'

Common Name: Golden Weeping Monterey Cypress

Family: Cupressaceae

Origin: California (U.S.A.)

Exposure: Full Sun

Irrigation: Low Water Needs

Flower Time: Insignificant

Height: Over 40’

Width: 20’

#24) Epilobium canum

I saw this wonder of a plant at The San Francisco Botanical Garden this past October. It is Epilobium canum and thankfully, it is very much widely available. I was attracted to the drama of its bright red flowers against its silver foliage, as well as its soft form and wonderful application (in the middle of paving, anchoring 2 different levels). It demanded to be noticed!

At the two opposite ends of the spectrum, the straight species (A) has gray green foliage, while 'Catalina' (D) has silver foliage. Cultivars 'Bert's Bluff (B) and 'UC Hybrid' (C) are varying shades in between. These shades could prove useful in different plant palettes.

Hummingbirds love this plant. And, it can be used in California Native plant palettes. And, since this plant likes a cooler sun, I think it'll do great in Berkeley.

Details:
Biological Name: Epilobium canum or Zauschneria californica
Common Name: California Fuchsia
Family: Onagraceae
Origin: California (U.S.A.)
Exposure: Full Sun
Irrigation: Low Water Needs
Flower Time: Summer/Fall
Height: 1-2’
Width: 4-5’

#23) Pachyphytum hookeri

I was attracted to this plants beautiful coloring of icy, muted blue, and hints of green toward the center, and pink toward the tips. It loves partial shade and well-draining soil, where it can spread slowly by forming offset rosettes. It's very low growing (4-6" tall), and could look great in a 2-3' wide mature cluster, or in smaller groupings, tucked into a rocky retaining wall. As seen in my 'Parade of Shade' palette, it is very similar in color to Podocarpus alpinus 'Blue Gem,' and if placed in front, it could create an interesting mono-tonal effect. Its fleshy, succulent leaves would also complement the needle-like leaves of the Podocarpus. And, I'm a sucker for blending woodsy looking plants with desert plants, so this is combination is right up my alley.

Pachyphytum hookeri is part of a plant palette called 'Parade of Shade.' Click on label/tag to see complete palette.

Details:
Biological Name: Pachyphytum hookeri
Common Name: Hooker's Pachyphytum
Family: Crassulaceae
Origin: Mexico
Exposure: Partial shade to full sun
Irrigation: Waterwise
Flower Time: Spring
Height: 4-6”
Width: 4-6”

#22) Solenostemon scutellarioides ‘Wizard Sunset’

Solenostemon scutellarioides ‘Wizard Sunset’ is great for adding a splash of color to your shady garden. While they will take some sun, their color is enhanced in shade. As seen above, it looks great with gray green plants such as Sedum reflexum.

Solenostemon scutellarioides ‘Wizard Sunset’ is part of a plant palette called 'Parade of Shade.' Click on label/tag to see complete palette.

Details:
Biological Name: Solenostemon scutellarioides ‘Wizard Sunset’
Common Name: Coleus 'Wizard Sunset'
Family: Lamiaceae
Origin: Malaysia, Southeastern Asia
Exposure: Full shade to partial sun
Irrigation: Regular water
Flower Time: Inconspicuous
Height: 12-14”
Width: 10-12”

#21) Podocarpus alpinus 'Blue Gem'

I was attracted to Podocarpus alpinus 'Blue Gem' for its minty blue color, fine texture and woodsy feel. It likes partial shade, spreads low to the ground, and is slow growing. Also, in the spring, new shoots emerge nearly red, adding additional seasonal interest.

In the same vein of mixing woodsy plants with succulents, (D) Podocarpus alpinus 'Blue Gem' could go nicely with (A) Picea pungens 'Globosa', (B) Opuntia basilaris hyb. 'Baby Rita', and (C) Sedum telephium 'Purple Emperor'.

Podocarpus alpinus 'Blue Gem' is part of a plant palette called 'Parade of Shade.' Click on label/tag to see complete palette.

Details:
Biological Name: Podocarpus alpinus 'Blue Gem'
Common Name: Blue Gem Alpine Plum Yew
Family: Podocarpaceae
Origin: Australia
Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
Irrigation: Regular water
Flower Time: Inconspicuous
Height: 1’
Width: 3’

#20) Libertia ixioides 'Taupo Blaze'

Unlike the more common Libertia peregrinans (bottom right image), Libertia ixioides 'Taupo Blaze' (P.P.#18,486), has bright green and orange-yellow blades. Similarly, it produces white flowers mid-spring to summer. And, they both offer fantastic winter foliage color to the shady garden.

As an alternate palette to the 'Parade of Shade' palette, you can also pair (B) Libertia ixioides 'Taupo Blaze' with (A) Melianthus major and (C) Stachys byzantina.

Libertia ixioides 'Taupo Blaze' is part of a plant palette called 'Parade of Shade.' Click on label/tag to see complete palette.

Details:
Biological Name: Libertia ixioides 'Taupo Blaze' P.P.#18,486
Common Name: Taupo Blaze New Zealand Iris
Family: Iridaceae (Irises)
Origin: New Zealand (Australasia)
Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
Irrigation: Regular water
Flower Time: Mid-spring to summer
Height: 2’
Width: 2’

#19) Zamia spp.

I was drawn to this species for its upright habit, strong form, and cardboard-like leaves. It adds textural and structural interest to the shade garden. I used to see Zamia furfuracea frequently in Los Angeles nurseries, and I feel this plant could be more widely used in the Bay Area, as it is versatile to both sun or shade. Zamia pumila (top and bottom left images) has narrower leaflets than Zamia furfuracea (lower right image) and similarly, females produce orange cones. 

However, this species does not seem to be widely available here. Zamia pumila can be found on the Monrovia website, but otherwise seems hard to find. Devil Mountain Nursery carries Zamia floridana ‘North Strain' (though it does not have an image), and San Marcos Growers USED to carry Zamia furfuracea. Therefore, I'm not filled with confidence that I could acquire these if I wanted to. Perhaps they can be swapped with the more common Cycas revoluta (Sago Palm).

Zamia spp. is part of a plant palette called 'Parade of Shade.' Click on label/tag to see complete palette.

Details:

Biological Name: Zamia spp.

Common Name: Coontie

Family: Zamiaceae

Origin: West Indies and Cuba

Exposure: Full sun to partial shade*

Irrigation: Low Water Needs

Flower Time: Prized for foliage

* Devil Mountain and San Marcos suggest it can also handle full shade.