By Phin Upham
There is a movement of people who is trying to get homeowners to consider planting native flower species in their yards. The advantages to native species, aside from their natural beauty, is that they are adapted to exist in whatever conditions they originated from. In Southern California, where rain is a rarity, that means very drought-tolerant plants. Fortunately, the desert produces some gorgeous foliage. Read on for three of our favorites.
Matilija Poppy
The Matilija poppy looks a lot like a fried egg, so that’s how most people would know it. The so-called “fried egg plant” features very papery petals. It spreads aggressively, but it does so below ground. Therefore, it’s best to plant these perennials on a slope or a hill.
Lemonade Berry
You’ll need very dry soil with full sun or only partial shade to grow this bush. It’s related to coastal sage shrubs like chapparal. Its leaves are a deep green with a leathery texture, and it has small rose-pink spring flowers. It grows fairly well, so it’s a decent plant to use if you want to provide some screening for the home. It helps keep people away from windows and fence lines.
Chalk Liveforever
Aside from having one of the more interesting plant names, the chalk liveforever is a ghastly-looking succulent with beautiful blue and gray rosettes. In late spring and early summer, owners get a surprise: bright red or silver flowers bloom and flower. The plant grows to a maximum height of 2 feet, and it’s best placed among some rocks for a natural-looking formation.
About the Author: Phin Upham is an investor at a family office/ hedgefund, where he focuses on special situation illiquid investing. Before this position, Phin Upham was working at Morgan Stanley in the Media and Telecom group. You may contact Phin on his Phin Upham website or Twitter page.