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Northern California Patio Backyard
Purple Smoke Tree
Ligtu Peruvian Lily
Eulalia Grass
Blue Fescue
Purple Smoke Tree

Common name:Purple Smoke Tree
Botanical name:Cotinus coggygria 'Purpureus'

A deciduous shrub or small tree that grows up to 10' tall, the purpureus is grown for its wispy, thread-like flower clusters and outstanding fall color. Its foliage has a redish purple color that turns somewhat green in summer. The plant requires sun to part shade, with little or no summer water. -Monterey Bay Nursery

Ligtu Peruvian Lily

Common name:Ligtu Peruvian Lily
Botanical name:Alstroemaria ligtu hybrids

The decidupous rhizomes of this Peruvian lily will often run aggressively if not controlled. They grow best in full to part sun with some summer watering in dry climates. The florist strains can reach 6' tall, while the compact strains range from 12-36" For extra long, florist quality stems, stake or grow through netting for support. -Monterey Bay Nursery

Eulalia Grass

Common name:Eulalia Grass
Botanical name:Miscanthus sinensis 'Flamingo'

'Flamingo' creates architectural interest in the garden because of the tall stature of the leaves which curve gracefully. Green foliage turn tan colored as cold weather approaches. Pink flower panicles appear on top of foliage during the fall season, turning silvery colored. This beautiful grass can reach 7' tall and wide. It should be divided every 2-3 years to refreshen the foliage. It attracts birds and is deer resistant. It is heat tolerant (not desert adapted) and prefers full sun or light shade. Flowers can be cut and dried for creative arrangements. Is very dependable and tough but considered invasive in some areas. Beautiful in containers. Swaying foliage and flower panicles in wind are attractive.

Blue Fescue

Common name:Blue Fescue
Botanical name:Festuca glauca

This ground cover/grass will grow less than 1' tall and has small, blue green leaves.

Designer: Michelle Derviss

Northern California Patio Backyard
Image: 0 of 19

Photographer: Michelle Derviss

Soils and Compost:

Practice grass-cycling by leaving short grass clippings on lawns after mowing, so that nutrients and organic matter are returned to the soil.

Integrated Pest Management:

Develop healthy soil for plants that are vigorous and naturally pest-resistant.