Common name:Western Sword Fern, Alaska Fern
Botanical name:Polystichum munitum
This Fern produces upright fronds, reaching 4-5' tall in moist, cool forests in northern California. This size is usually lower, especially without summer watering. It is great in containers or dry shade landscapes. This species is especially useful to
give the illusion of lush, moist gardens where little water is actually being used. It should receive part shade to dense shade. -Monterey Bay Nursery
Common name:Pacific Bleeding Heart
Botanical name:Dicentra formosa
Native to California coastal woods, this variety has a larger, coarser foliage than other Dicentra varieties. It can reach 1' tall and 3' wide quickly. Foliage is fern-like and blue-green. Pink heart shaped flowers appear in spring, hanging downwards from thin vertical stalks. Hummingbirds and bees love the flowers. Deer usually stay away. This perennial does best in part to full shade. It needs well draining, moist, fertile soil.
Common name:Evergreen or Wild Huckleberry
Botanical name:Vaccinium ovatum
This evergreen shrub will grow 2'-10' tall depending on whether it is in the sun or shade. It has leathery, dark green leaves with white or pink flowers that bloom in the spring. Edible black berries are produced in summer and fall.
Designer:
Photographer: Vicki Anderson
Physical weed control, including mulching, or hand removal protects the watershed from harmful chemicals.
Attract, or buy beneficial insects such as ladybugs and lacewings to control pest outbreaks in your garden.