Leyland cypress

Leyland cypress - Wikipedia:



"The Leyland cypress, Cupressus × leylandii, often referred to simply as leylandii, is a fast-growing coniferous evergreen tree much used in horticulture, primarily for hedges and screens. Even on sites of relatively poor culture, plants have been known to grow to heights of 15 metres (49 ft) in 16 years.[2] Their rapid, thick growth means they are sometimes used to achieve privacy, but such use can result in disputes with neighbours whose own property becomes overshadowed.[3] The tree is a hybrid, almost always sterile, and propagated mainly from cuttings."



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Kiwifruit Production in California - UC Small Farm Program

Kiwifruit Production in California - UC Small Farm Program:



"Small Farm Center, University of California, Davis, CA 95616

Kiwifruit are produced by a large, deciduous vine botanically known as Actinidia deliciosa. Individual plants bear either male or female flowers, so both types of plants are planted in a vineyard at a ratio of 8 females to 1 male to ensure adequate cross-pollination and fruit set. Bees are necessary for pollination; wind pollination is unsatisfactory because it does not produce large fruit. Worldwide, Hayward is the preferred variety because of its large fruit. Male varieties are many with the California of Chico male the most common in California. Matua is another widely used male in California and New Zealand."



Spacing is no less than 8 up to 15 feet and the male plants should be withing 30-50 feet the lay out of a commercial plot is noted at the link to be every 3rd in every direction but I will have 3 total vines



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Autumn Olive (Eleagnus umbellate) : Silverberry (Elaeagnus commutata)

Autumn Olive (Eleagnus umbellate) : Silverberry (Elaeagnus commutata):





Jessica has separate items for this name. 3- 10ft tall bush

Elaeagnus commutata is most silvery of two this one is shown to increase orchard and grass forage land production at 1000  sticks per acre. this comes out to 7'x7'

Elaeagnus umbellata is the more bright green and red berry of the two often called autum olive.

"Native to Northeastern Canada and US east to North Dakota, the Rockies, and north through Alaska. Fleshy berries were eaten by many native tribes made into pemmican and cooked in moose fat by some Alaskan natives. Fast growing native non-leguminous nitrogen fixing shrub can grow 6 or more feet tall and is attractive with its silvery foliage and small fragrant flowers in the spring. An important food and habitat plant for wildlife, with birds loving the berries, browsers grazing the leaves and snowshoe hare relishing its cover. Hardy zones 3-9."

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade; Hedge;

An easily grown plant, it succeeds in most soils that are well-drained[200], though it dislikes shallow chalk soils[98]. This last report conflicts rather with the record of its natural habitat, it should grow well on chalk[K]. Prefers a light sandy soil that is only moderately fertile, succeeding in poor and dry soils[11, 200]. Requires a position in full sun[11, 200]. Plants are very drought and wind resistant[1, 11, 200]. A very hardy plant, tolerating temperatures down to about -40°c[184]. However, plants prefer a continental climate and are liable to be cut back in severe winters in Britain mainly because the wood is not fully ripened in our cooler summers. A moderately fast-growing plant[202]. The small flowers are deliciously scented[245]. This species does not normally require pruning but the plant can regenerate from very old wood and so can be cut back severely if required[202]. Plants resent root disturbance and should be placed in their permanent positions as soon as possible[202]. This species has a symbiotic relationship with certain soil bacteria, these bacteria form nodules on the roots and fix atmospheric nitrogen. Some of this nitrogen is utilized by the growing plant but some can also be used by other plants growing nearby[200]. An excellent companion plant, when grown in orchards it can increase yields from the fruit trees by up to 10%. Often confused with E. angustifolia even though it is very distinct[50]. Plants produce suckers quite freely, often sending them up at some distance from the plant[182, K]. This species is notably resistant to honey fungus




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Mahonia, Berberis aquifolium

Oregon Grape, Berberis aquifolium:



"Berberis aquifolium is a species of flowering plant in the family Berberidaceae, native to western North America. It is the state flower of Oregon. In California, it grows throughout the mountains and foothills of northern and central California, and in Southern California, it grows primarily in the Transverse Range Mountains, Sierra foothills and higher elevations of the Peninsular Range. It is an evergreen shrub growing to 2 m (6 ft) tall by 1.5 m (5 ft) wide that spreads slowly by rhizomes. The leaves are dark green and holly shaped, and will often turn to hues of red and purple in the winter. Dense clusters of mildly fragrant yellow flowers are produced in early spring. The flowers are followed by spherical dark dusty blue berries, which give rise to the common name "Oregon grape". The Oregon grape is not related to true grapes, but gets its name from the purple clusters of edible berries whose color and slightly dusted appearance are reminiscent of grapes. There are three recognized varieties in the wild that were previously treated as separate species. Var. repens is a low growing form. There are also several cultivars available.

M. aquifolium is easy to grow, and a popular subject in shady or woodland plantings. It is valued for its striking foliage and flowers, which often appear before those of other shrubs. It is resistant to summer drought, tolerates poor soils, and does not create excessive leaf litter. It prefers shade or part shade, but appears to do reasonably well in full sun too. It's very drought tolerant once established, but tolerates summer water well, up to 1x/week."

companions with iris, renuncula, yarrow, wild ginger.  Note that some understory is wet and some dry.  Mahonia will go both ways. so up hill is dry.

available at Rolling River for $8 may be small.



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Common Manzanita, Arctostaphylos manzanita

Common Manzanita, Arctostaphylos manzanita:





about 6 feet wide plant x9  Works with a wide variety of other plants including Ceanothus species, scrub oaks, Salvias, Penstemons, Silk Tassel Bush (Garrya species), Flannel Bush (Fremontodendrons), and numerous subshrubs and annuals.

"Artostaphylos manzanita is a tall, beautiful species of manzanita with an often dramatic and winding branch structure. It has the common names of Whiteleaf Manzanita and Common Manzanita. It is native to California, where it can be found primarily in the North Coast Range, and in the northern and central Sierra Nevada foothills. It's much more rarely found in the southern part of California in the Peninsular, western Transverse and South Coast Ranges. It is common on chaparral slopes and low-elevation coniferous forest ecosystems. The leaves are bright shiny green, wedge-shaped and pointed. The small white flowers, only a quarter inch long, are cup-shaped and hang upside down. The fruits are berries which are white when new and turn red-brown as the summer wears on. The bark on the long, crooked branches is reddish, making the shrub easily identifiable as a manzanita. It grows into a twisted tree about 15 feet tall. It does not form a basal burl and can be killed by fire.

Whiteleaf Manzanita is one of the easier manzanitas to grow in landscape applications, and is a bit more tolerant of summer water than most. Watering 1x per month during the summer is usually OK, though as with most manzanitas, it's best if it gets any supplementary summer water it needs by reaching it's roots out to a nearby water source. It likes sun or part shade, and does well in a wide variety of soils"



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Monkey Puzzle Tree (Araucaria araucana)

Nut Pines (Pinus spp.) : Monkey Puzzle Tree (Araucaria araucana):

"Native to Chile where it grows on the lower slopes (3000' and up) of the Andes in areas that recieve heavy amounts of winter snow. Highly esteemed for the very large nuts that are easy to harvest as the cone disintegrates when ripe letting the seeds fall. Excellent nut crop for wet, rainy coastal climates, where other nut trees rarely succeed. They can take a long time to come into production, but are said to be reliable and very productive once started. Male and female flowers are usually on separate trees, though occasionally they can be self fertile. Widely planted as an ornamental street tree throughout the Pacific Northwest they make a striking specimen with their stout dark green "reptilian" branches and symmetrical branch pattern. Grows best in moist rainy climates and are hardy down to about -4 degrees F, zone 7."



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Incense Cedar, Calocedrus decurrens

Incense Cedar, Calocedrus decurrens:



 "Calocedrus decurrens (California Incense-cedar; syn. Libocedrus decurrens Torr.) is a species of conifer native to western North America, with the bulk of the range in the United States, from central western Oregon through most of California and the extreme west of Nevada, and also a short distance into northwest Mexico in northern Baja California. It grows at altitudes of 50-2900 meter. It is the most widely-known species in the genus, and is often simply called Incense-cedar without a regional qualifier. It is a large tree, typically reaching heights of 40-60 meter and a trunk diameter of up to 3 meter (maximum, 69 meter tall and 4.5 meter diameter), and with a broad conic crown of spreading branches. The bark is orange-brown weathering grayish, smooth at first, becoming fissured and exfoliating in long strips on the lower trunk on old trees. The foliage is produced in flattened sprays with scale-like leaves 2-15 millimeter long; they are arranged in opposite decussate pairs, with the successive pairs closely then distantly spaced, so forming apparent whorls of four; the facial pairs are flat, with the lateral pairs folded over their bases. The leaves are bright green on both sides of the shoots with only inconspicuous stomata. Easy to grow in the garden but requires plenty of room. If given deep, infrequent watering when young it will develop drought tolerance."



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Carob Tree -- Ceratonia siliqua

Ceratonia siliqua - Wikipedia:



"Ceratonia siliqua, commonly known as the carob tree or carob bush, is a species of flowering evergreen shrub or tree in the pea family, Fabaceae. It is widely cultivated for its edible pods, and as an ornamental tree in gardens. The ripe, dried pod is often ground to carob powder, which is used to replace cocoa powder. Carob bars, an alternative to chocolate bars, are often available in health-food stores.

The carob tree is native to the Mediterranean region, including Southern Europe, Northern Africa, the larger Mediterranean islands, the Levant and Middle-East of Western Asia into Iran; and the Canary Islands and Macaronesia.[4][5] The carat, a unit of mass for gemstones, and of purity for gold, takes its name, indirectly, from the Arabic word for a carob seed, "

may need a male tree
Full bearing can take 25 years
https://permaculturenews.org/2009/04/09/the-carob/


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Empress Tree -- Paulownia tomentosa

Paulownia tomentosa - Wikipedia:



"This tree grows 10–25 m (33–82 ft) tall, with large heart-shaped to five-lobed leaves 15–40 cm (6–16 in) across, arranged in opposite pairs on the stem. On young growth, the leaves may be in whorls of three and be much bigger than the leaves on more mature growth.[6] The leaves can be mistaken for those of the catalpa.

The very fragrant flowers are produced before the leaves in early spring, on panicles 10–30 cm long, with a tubular purple corolla 4–6 cm long resembling a foxglove flower. The fruit is a dry egg-shaped capsule 3–4 cm long, containing numerous tiny seeds. The seeds are winged and disperse by wind and water. Pollarded trees do not produce flowers, as these form only on mature wood.

Paulownia tomentosa can survive wildfire because the roots can regenerate new, very fast-growing stems. It is tolerant of pollution and it is not fussy about soil type. For this reason it functions ecologically as a pioneer plant. Its nitrogen-rich leaves provide good fodder and its roots prevent soil erosion. Eventually, Paulownia is succeeded by taller trees that shade it. It cannot thrive in the shade of other trees. It is able to grow from small cracks in pavements and walls."

Source  https://www.rollingrivernursery.com/products/337/65/natives-tree-seedlings/tree-seedlings/empress-tree-paulownia-tomentosa-detail

Below is a wonderful site on the use of this wonderful tree with 5-6 meter deep roots that bring waterto the surface.  A great timber crop and can be intercropped.  Widely used in China.
http://paulowniatrees.eu/learn-more/intercropping/


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Common Selfheal, Prunella vulgaris

Found in a variety of places, including forest edges, meadows, and vernal wetlands.

Common Selfheal, Prunella vulgaris: "Prunella vulgaris, known as common selfheal, heal-all, heart-of-the-earth or h kh tho in Vietnamese, is a medicinal plant in the genus Prunella. It grows from 1 to 2 feet high, with creeping, self-rooting, tough, square, reddish stems branching at leaf axis. The leaves are lance shaped, serrated and reddish at tip, about an inch long and 1/2 inch broad, grow on short stalks in opposite pairs down the square stem. The flowers grow from a clublike, somewhat square, whirled cluster, immediately below this club are a pair of stalkless leaves standing out on either side like a collar. Flowers are two lipped and tubular, the top lip is a purple hood, and the bottom lip is often white, it has three lobes with the middle lobe being larger and fringed upwardly. Flowers bloom at different times depending on climate and other conditions; Mostly from June to August. For medicinal purposes, the whole plant is gathered when the flowers bloom, and dried. The leaves and small flowers of heal-all are edible. Heal-all is a perennial herb found throughout Europe, Asia, Japan and the United States of America, as well as most temperate climates. Its origin seems to be European, though it has been documented in other countries since before any history of travel. In the United Kingdom it is abundant throughout Wales, Scotland, Northern Ireland and England. In the Republic of Ireland it is currently abundant in the west in counties Galway and Clare, the south-west in Kerry, the south coast and is also found around the central basin of Ireland. It is often found growing in waste ground, grassland, woodland edges, usually on basic and neutral soils. It is grown in any damp soil in full sun or in light shade. Seeds are sown in very early spring in a flat outdoor area."



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Sage, Salvia 'allen chickering"

From O'Donnells Fairfax nursery replaces bees bliss with this.

Selected for its vigorous growth, grey-green leaves, and large lavender blue flowers, 'Allen Chickering' quickly reaches 5' tall and wide, often in its first year. A dry, sunny well drained spot is ideal, although it will take clay if there is a slope and it is not overwatered. Excellent plant to attract bees and hummingbirds, also good for erosion control. A hard pruning (at least 1/3) in late summer will produce a nicer looking, longer lived plant. 5x5 size

Bee's Bliss Sage, Salvia X 'Bee's Bliss'
Plant this under manzinita Salvia Bee's Bliss is an excellent ground cover and habitat plant. It grows around 2 feet high and 6 to 8 feet wide. The leaves are grey-green with lavender flowers in the spring. It is drought tolerant after it is established but is tolerant of a wide range of garden conditions. Hummingbirds and bees are attracted to the flowers.

Bee's Bliss Sage, Salvia X 'Bee's Bliss':



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Indian Rhubarb, Darmera peltata

This has edible stalks




Indian Rhubarb, Darmera peltata:

"Darmera peltata (Indian rhubarb or, ambiguously, "umbrella plant") is the only species within the genus Darmera in the family Saxifragaceae. It is a slowly-spreading rhizomatous perennial from mountain streamsides in woodland in the western United States (southwestern Oregon to northwestern California). In late spring the flowers emerge before the leaves, with rounded cymes of numerous five-petalled white to bright pink flowers (measuring up to 1.5 centimeter across each) borne on flower stems up to 2 meter long. The leaves are peltate, rounded, deeply lobed, coarsely-toothed, conspicuously veined and dark green, also on stems up to 2 meter in height. The leaves turn red in autumn.

In gardens, Darmera peltata flourishes in pond margins and bog gardens, where it forms an imposing umbrella-like clump. It is suited to smaller gardens where there is no room for Gunnera manicata or Gunnera tinctoria, unrelated plants that are somewhat similar in appearance, but much larger. It is easy to grow in the cooler climates of its native range, but is not happy in hot southern areas. "



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Lespedeza - Wikipedia

There are many colors of this and also some are viney such as the pink one below.  They can be planted under Toona Sinensis along with false indigo (amorpha)


Also called bush clover. According to American botanist Asa Gray (1810 – 1888), the Lespedeza owes its name to governor of East Florida Vicente Manuel de Céspedes (1784-1790; who, through a letter, allowed botanist André Michaux to explore East Florida in search of new species of plants, where Michaux found Lespedeza[2]), but when Céspedes wrote the letter, at the beginning of it, the name of Céspedes was changed to "Zespedez". So, when Michaux's book Flora Boreali-Americana of 1802 was printed, the name "Céspedes" to refer to the plant was written as "Lespedez", the word from which the current name of the plant was derived.[3][2]
Cultivation and uses[edit]

Some species are grown as garden or ornamental plants, and are used as a forage crops, notably in the southern United States, and as a means of soil enrichment and for prevention of erosion. In some areas, certain species are invasive. Lespedeza, like other legumes, have root nodules that harbor bacteria capable of nitrogen fixation from the air into a soil-bound form that can be taken up by other plants. Growers can take advantage of this process by putting the plants in their fields to release nitrogen, so they can use less fertilizer.

Lespedeza - Wikipedia:



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Toona Sinensis

This tree is native to Asia from Korea to Vietnam but will grow in cold weather. It is a mahogany but I don't have any idea how tall it will grow here but it is frequently used as an ornamental tree, commonly called Chinese Mahogony.

Additionally the new shoots and leaves are edible, high in E and Beta Caratine and taste oniony and are often stirfried and eaten in salads.  It is a common veggie in asian markets.  Commercially grown on small immature trees.  The tree suckers readily and these could be cultivated for this purpose.  We may even be able to force them for a longer season for edibles.

It is very fast growing and can be under planted with false indigo and Lespendeza

https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Toona_sinensis

Coyote bush

This is pretty standard sage brush in California

https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Baccharis_pilularis
http://calscape.org/Baccharis-pilularis-(Coyote-Bush)?srchcr=sc5a6e81f249691

Siberian peashrub

high protein pea for chicken feed, forage, etc grows 6-15 feet they ar desiduous
This one is a quick grower it's very Lush and green lovely color bright yellow flowers that look like snapdragons that are edible and a P that is edible

https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Caragana_arborescens
http://tcpermaculture.com/site/2013/05/13/permaculture-plants-pea-trees/
http://northcountryfarmer.com/?p=736

Goumi berry

This is related to Silverberry which appears to be a very large family
  Fruit is fragile but definitely edible sweet and sour like rhubarb. In addition this plant is nitrogen fixing

https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Elaeagnus_multiflora

Bee plant

Scrophularia californica is a flowering plant in the figwort family which is known by the common names California figwort and California bee plant. This perennial herb is native to the western United States and British Columbia. This is an unassuming plant with triangular, toothed, blue-green leaves in pairs opposite each other on a spindly, squared stem. The brownish-magenta flowers are rounded, hollow buds about a centimeter long with two long upper lobes. This species is a strong bee attractant.

a ground cover kind of plant used by Native Americans especially Southwest extensively for die and also as the force sister in the famous three sisters planting

This is an annual and so therefore it makes no sense to buy plants however finding seed may be difficult

http://calscape.org/Scrophularia-californica-()

Capulin cherry

This is just a great cherry tree that would do better in full sun than in understory situation it's a fast grower cultivars very greatly in the amount of fruit and the size of seed

Might be best on the western edge of the group or on an end where could get better son it will grow to 10 feet in 18 months and 30 is not uncommon

This tree is semi-evergreen and may hold its leaves during mild Winters

https://www.crfg.org/pubs/ff/capulin-cherry.html

Monkey puzzle tree

This is an evergreen Conifer like tree with very unusual leaves and a very distinct symmetry. It will produce pine cones and pine nuts but only after 30 or 40 years

https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Araucaria_araucana

Salmon berry Rubus spectabilis

Native to the Pacific Northwest this is an understory plant likes moisture

Rubus spectabilis (Salmonberry) is a species in the Rose family native to the west coast of North America from west central Alaska to California. In California it is found primarily along the coast from Santa Cruz County northward, typically in moist areas under tree canopy. It is a shrub growing to 1-4 meter tall, with perennial, not biennial woody stems (unlike other species). It forms large, dense patches given favorable conditions. The leaves are trifoliate, 7-22 centimeter long, the terminal leaflet larger than the two side leaflets. The leaf margins are toothed. The flowers are 2-3 centimeter diameter, with five purple petals; they are produced from early spring to early summer. The fruit, which is edible, matures in late summer to early autumn and resembles a large yellow to orange-red raspberry 1.5-2 centimeter long with many drupelets.

Its spines are less menacing than others in the Rubus genus, making it more suitable for the garden. However, it tendency to spread means that it needs plenty of room. Its deep, rhizomatous root growth makes it a useful plant for bank stabilization

https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rubus_spectabilis
http://calscape.org/Rubus-spectabilis-(Salmon-Berry)?srchcr=sc5a735d7015044

Elderberry

In England elderberries are known as an instant Hydro because they are so vigorous and fast growing and going to be shaped entwined into things . The flowers  are honeysuckle like and are used for Liquors and flavorings and syrups

https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sambucus

Chilean guava Ugni_molinae

These berries are not good in hot weather so they might suffer in Midsummer unless they are covered or understory is some way

https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ugni_molinae

Stream Orchid, Epipactis gigantea

Stream Orchid, Epipactis gigantea:  frequently used in bogs and ponds   mix it with monkey flower and hedge nettle and "Epipactis gigantea is an erect perennial reaching anywhere from 30 centimeters to one meter in height. Its stems have wide or narrow lance-shaped leaves 5 to 15 centimeters long and inflorescences of two or three showy orchids near the top. Each flower has three straight sepals which are light brownish or greenish with darker veining, each one to two centimeters long. The two top petals are similar in shape and reddish-brown with purple veins. The lowest petal is cup-shaped with a pointed, tongue-like protuberance and is brighter red-brown and more starkly veined, often with areas of yellow. The fruit is a hanging capsule 2 or 3 centimeters long which contains thousands of tiny seeds. This plant grows in wet areas in a variety of habitats, including riverbanks, hot springs, and meadows. Unlike some of its relatives, this species is an autotroph. "



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Yellow Bush Penstemon, Keckiella antirrhinoides

Yellow Bush Penstemon, Keckiella antirrhinoides:



This is good with live oak



"Keckiella antirrhinoides (formerly Penstemon antirrhinoides) is a species of flowering shrub in the plantain family known by the common names snapdragon penstemon and chaparral beardtongue. It is native to the chaparral, deserts, and pinyon-juniper woodlands of California, Arizona, and adjacent Baja California. This shrub grows one half to two and a half meters tall, with spreading branches. The oppositely-arranged leaves are up to 2 centimeters long and are lance-shaped or narrow ovals. They are deciduous during dry periods. The plant produces branchlike flower clusters which bear snapdragon-like flowers. Each hairy flower is about 2 centimeters wide, with three lower lobes which lie flat or curve down and two upper lobes which join to form a curved lip. Inside the flower are shiny filamentous stamens holding anthers and a flat, densely hairy sterile stamen called a staminode. The flowers are light yellow and dry to nearly black. The plant will often drop many leaves after flowering."



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Coast Live Oak, Quercus agrifolia

Coast Live Oak, Quercus agrifolia:



this is our main oak and the best oak for the area. It is possible to plant flowers under them but caution of summertime watering.  keep it super local to the shrub or flower



 "The Coast Live Oak is a beautiful evergreen oak that grows predominantly west of the central valleys, as far north as Mendocino County, and as far south as northern Baja California in Mexico. This tree typically has a much-branched trunk and reaches a mature height of 10-25 meters. Some specimens may attain an age exceeding 250 years, with trunk diameters up to three or four meters. It's form is highly variable, and younger trees are often shrubby. The trunk, particularly for older individuals, may be highly contorted, massive and gnarled. The crown is broadly rounded and dense, especially when aged 20 to 70 years; in later life the trunk and branches are more well defined and the leaf density lower. The leaves are dark green, oval, often convex in shape, 2-7 cm long and 1-4 cm broad; the leaf margin is spiny-toothed, with sharp thistly fibers that extend from the lateral leaf veins. The outer layers of leaves are designed for maximum solar absorption, containing two to three layers of photosynthetic cells. Flowers are produced in early-to-mid spring; the male flowers are pendulous catkins 5-10 cm long, the female flowers inconspicuous, less than 0.5 cm long, with 1-3 clustered together. The fruit is a slender reddish brown acorn 2-3.5 cm long and 1-1.5 cm broad and matures about 7-8 months after pollination (most red oak acorns take 18 months to mature). They will attract a variety of birds and butterflies.

The Coast Live Oak is one of the only California native oak that actually thrives in the coastal environment, although it is rare on the immediate shore; it enjoys the mild winter and summer climate afforded by ocean proximity, and it is somewhat tolerant of aerosol-borne sea salt. The coastal fog supplies relief from the rainless California summer heat. It is the dominant overstory plant of the Coast Live Oak woodland habitat, often joined by California Bay Laurel and California Buckeye north of Big Sur. Associated understory plants include Toyon, various manzanitas, and Western Poison-oak. Normally the tree is found on well drained soils of coastal hills and plains, usually near year round or perennial streams. It's also often found in rocky hillsides that capture and hold more moisture. It may be found in several natural communities including Coast Live Oak woodland, Engelmann Oak woodland, Valley Oak woodland and both northern and southern mixed evergreen forests. While normally found within 100 kilometers of the Pacific Ocean at elevations less than 700 meters, in southern California it occasionally occurs at up to 1,500 meters in altitude.

Coast Live Oaks are fairly easy to grow. Water 1x per week the first year after planting, decreasing to about 1x per month after the first year, until the tree is about 10 feet tall. After that, it's best to avoid direct summer water entirely. In areas with less rainfall, best to planting Coast Live Oaks near an irrigated area. They'll get the water they need by stretching their roots out to the wetter area, but they'll keep the area close to their trunk nice and safely dry. Once they get their roots into the wetter areas, they'll grow rapidly and stay healthy looking all year round. Coast Live Oaks prefer to have their roots shaded, so it's a good idea to surround young specimens with mulch, rocks, or smaller native plants that won't crowd out the young tree trees but will provide shade to the roots. The best mulch is a thick layer of oak leaves. Don't fertilize oaks. They'll amend the soil over time with their own leaves and build the natural mitochondrial fungus in the soil they need to thrive. Gradually, they become islands of natural fertility that improve the health of the nearby plants."



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Madrone, Arbutus menziesii

Madrone, Arbutus menziesii:



This may not work in our landscape as it is an understory tree that likes some shade.  The location at the barns west corner could be uniquely warm for it. "The Pacific Madrone (Arbutus menziesii), is a species of arbutus found on the west coast of North America, from British Columbia (chiefly Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands) to California (mainly in the Puget Sound, Oregon Coast Range and California Coast Ranges but also scattered on the west slope of the Sierra Nevada mountains). It becomes rare south of Santa Barbara County, with isolated stands south to Palomar Mountain, San Diego County and northern Baja California, Mexico. It is also known as the Madroo, Madroa, Bearberry, or Strawberry Tree. In British Columbia it is simply referred to as Arbutus. Its species name was given it in honour of the Scots naturalist Archibald Menzies who noted it during George Vancouver's voyage of exploration. It is a broadleaf evergreen tree with rich orange-red bark that peels away on the mature wood, leaving a greenish, silvery appearance that has a satin sheen and smoothness. The exposed wood sometimes feels cool to the touch. In spring, it bears sprays of small bell-like flowers, and in autumn, red berries. The berries dry up and have hooked barbs that latch onto larger animals for migration. It is common to see madrones of about 10-25 meters in height, but in the right conditions the trees reach up to 30 meter. In best conditions madrones can also reach a thickness of 5-8 feet at its trunk, much like an oak tree. The leaves are thick, oval, 7-15 centimeter long and 4-8 centimeter broad, and arranged spirally; they are glossy dark green above and a lighter, more grayish green beneath, with an entire margin. The leaves brown during the fall season and detach from the branches.

Madrone is a particularly beautiful plant, but it grows very slowly in the southern, drier part of its range, where it typically grows to only 25 feet. In the northern, moister part of its range, it can grow quickly to 100 feet. Plant in a shady or partially shaded location, and avoid direct summer water. It prefers north facing slopes especially in drier locations."



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California Grape, Vitis californica

California Grape, Vitis californica:



This will grow under california bay prefers heavy soil but very fast and will make a woody thicket if it has nowhere to climb



 "Vitis californica, or California Wild Grape, is a species of wild grape that grows throughout central and northern California, and occasionally in southern California. Specifically, it grows as far south as the foothills of the Transverse Range, over the entire range of Sequoia and Cascade Foothills, occasionally in the San Joaquin Valley, and throughout the Sacramento Valley, North Coast Range and Klamath Range, and into southern Oregon. It is a deciduous vine which can grow to over 10 meters (30 feet) in length. It climbs on other plants or covers the ground with twisted, woody ropes of vine covered in green leaves. In the fall the leaves turn many shades of orange and yellow, and bunches of small and often sour but edible purple grapes hang from the vines. It is a common sight along the banks of the Sacramento River. The California wild grape grows along streams and rivers and thrives in damp areas; however, like most other native California plants it can withstand periods of dry conditions. The grapes provide an important food source for a variety of wild animals, especially birds, and the foliage provides thick cover. Bees love the flowers, and it is one of the best plants for butterflies in fall.

California Wild Grape is extremely fast growing and easy to grow. It's easy to train into an arbor, or windbreak along a fence, or pretty much any shape you want. If it has nowhere to climb, it makes a nice, though winter deciduous, groundcover.



Though this plant naturally grows in moister areas, it is surprisingly drought tolerant once established. It puts down deep roots and in most of its native range needs little or no incremental irrigation once it is established, though it will tolerate as much irrigation as you want to give it. More water makes it larger and lusher (not necessarily a good thing). It prefers to have its leaves in full sun, and will stretch up through the trees to get to it. It prefers heavier soils.

The downside of this plant is that it can be extremely aggressive, and may require continuous pruning to keep under control. While it can be invasive, it's easy to pull out. Also, it is winter deciduous, and its abundant dead leaves can be a problem in a tidy garden."



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Western Azalea, Rhododendron occidentale

Western Azalea, Rhododendron occidentale:



 "Western Azalea is best known of three Rhododendron species native to California. It occurs as far north as Bandon, Oregon and as far south as the Palomar Mountain area in southern California, possibly also in Baja California, Mexico. It is a shrub capable of growing to 5 meters tall but more commonly around 3 meters. The leaves are deciduous, 3-9 centimeters long and 1-3 centimeters broad. The flowers are 3.5-5 centimeters in diameter, with five lobes on the corolla; color varies from white to pink, often with a yellow blotch. It is most often found in moist forested areas. It typically gets summer fog drip or some other source of summer moisture. It is deciduous and will be leafless for some months out of the year, but does produce interesting fall color. It needs some sun for good flower production but also likes some high shade such as the edge of a woodland."



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Amorpha fruticosa (Indigo bush) |

dies back in winter but makes thickets probably good for understory bug habitat

Amorpha fruticosa is a species of flowering plant in the legume family known by several common names, including desert false indigo and bastard indigobush. It is found throughout eastern Canada, northern Mexico, and most of the continental United States. In California it is native to the southwestern part of the state with scattered occurrences in the central valley. A. fruticosa grows as a hairy, thornless shrub which can reach 3 to 4 meters in height and spread to twice that in width. It is somewhat variable in morphology. The leaves are made up of many hairy, oval-shaped, spine-tipped leaflets. The flower cluster is a spike-shaped raceme of many flowers, each with a single purple petal and ten protruding stamens with yellow anthers. The fruit is a legume pod containing one or two seeds.

This plant likes moist (but not saturated) areas, and will spread wherever it finds suitable moisture. It is loosely branched and can become leggy with age; it needs plenty of room to spread out. Its spreading tendency and fibrous root system make it useful for bank stabilization. It is winter deciduous so will be less attractive for several months out of the year. It is the host plant for the Southern Dogface butterfly.

Amorpha fruticosa (Indigo bush) | NPIN:



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Meadow Rue, Thalictrum fendleri

Meadow Rue, Thalictrum fendleri:



This will stay green all winter , mostly lives among trees



"Meadow Rue is a native perennial herb in the Ranunculaceae (Buttercup) family. However, it looks nothing like the conventional image of a Buttercup. It is widespread in Western North America. In California it is found in many locations including the Bay Area, central coast, Coast Ranges, Sierras, and coastal Southern California. It is found from sea level to 10,500 ft., most often in moist forest or woodland areas. It is a shade lover and works well with ferns and other shade plants. In warmer or drier areas it may go dormant in summer and die back to the ground, as some ferns do, but should recover with normal watering."



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Coast Redwood, Sequoia sempervirens

Coast Redwood, Sequoia sempervirens:



This is our best redwood and as you can see loves groves and understory plants abound.



 "Sequoia sempervirens is the sole living species of the genus Sequoia in the cypress family Cupressaceae (formerly treated in Taxodiaceae). It is an evergreen, long-lived, monoecious tree living for up to 2,200 years, and this species includes the tallest trees on Earth, reaching up to 115.5 meter (379.1 feet) in height and 8 meter (26 feet) diameter at breast height. It is native to coastal California and the southwestern corner of Oregon within the United States. This region is characterized by wet winters and cool, foggy summers. Fog drip is important to the total water budget for this tree. The name sequoia is sometimes used as a general term for the subfamily Sequoioideae in which this genus is classified, together with Sequoiadendron (Giant Sequoia) and Metasequoia (Dawn ); as a common name, it usually refers to Sequoiadendron.

These are beautiful trees and easy to grow in their native range but may quickly become too large for many residential gardens. Provide plenty of room and adequate moisture throughout the year. Outside its native range it may show signs of stress and its lifespan may be shortened. The tree is sensitive to water quality and air quality issues as well as low humidity and drying winds."



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Southern Maiden Hair, Adiantum capillus-veneris

Southern Maiden Hair, Adiantum capillus-veneris:



organic with rocks lover wet conditions



"The southern maidenhair fern, is a species of fern in the genus Adiantum with a semi-worldwide distribution. In the United States, it grows as far north as southern Missouri and southernmost Kentucky. In California it occurs in numerous locations and habitats throughout the state, but always where it is moist but not saturated and somewhat shaded. Often found near springs, seeps or stream banks, and even in desert palm oases. It is hardy to zone 7 and grows to 20-70 centimeters tall (8-28 inches). The foliage is delicate and lacy featuring dark stipes that accentuate the green leaves. Like most ferns, it forms a clump that will gradually grow in size if it has room. It may become summer dormant if it gets too much sun or not enough water, but it should come back when favorable conditions return. Easily obscured by other plants, put it where you can see it. It is commonly grown as a houseplant."



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Western Columbine, Aquilegia formosa

Western Columbine, Aquilegia formosa:



 "Names include Crimson Columbine, Western Columbine or (ambiguously) "Red Columbine". It is a common and attractive wildflower native to western North America, from Alaska to Baja California, and eastward to Montana and Wyoming. It is very often known as the "Red Columbine", but because this name is also used for a number of other members of the genus Aquilegia, it is not recommended. Within its range, the Crimson Columbine can be found in most kinds of habitat (chaparral, oak woodland, mixed-evergreen or coniferous forest). It is not found on desert floors, nor at altitudes above 3300 meters, and it is absent from the Central Valley of California. It prefers moist locations such as stream banks and needs summer water. It prefers light shade especially in the afternoon."



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California Wildrose, Rosa californica

California Wildrose, Rosa californica:


with rodedendron, huckleberry monkeyflower,
sun to shade but with some water it will make hips and make a thicket.  Perhaps it could be planted with some evergeen or understory grass cover so the landscape does not look so dead in winter.  It is companion to huckleberry if if done this way it would be unwakable area



"The California Wild Rose is a beautiful rose species that grows through the coast and foothills of California, and in the mountains up to elevations of 6000 feet. It is a deciduous thicket-forming shrub with prickly, curving stems. Each rose is open-faced and generally flat, with five petals in any shade of pink from almost white to deep magenta. The fragrant flowers may grow singly or in flower clusters of several blooms. It produces typical rose hips containing yellow seeds. The plant is native to arid regions and can survive drought, but it grows most abundantly in moist soils near water sources. It is most often used as a barrier planting in a garden where it can be allowed to form a large thicket. It can go summer dormant (or partially) if it doesn't get enough water. Berries may or may not happen, but California Wild Rose is still a good background foundation plant in leaf."



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Jujubes (Ziziphus Jujuba)

Jujubes (Ziziphus Jujuba):



"Easy to grow and tough attractive tree with contorted branches and glossy bright green leaves that turn yellow in fall. Grows 10-20 ft. Fragrant light yellow flowers bloom in midsummer and make excellent bee forage. The small brown fruits, sometimes call Chinese Dates, are like a sweet crisp apple in green stage, and when dried have a flavor that resembles dates. The fruits are nutritious as well as delicious and full of vitamin C. The Jujube is one of the most widely grown fruits in China where they are highly esteemed. Trees are drought tolerant, hardy to –10 degrees and need a long growing season to produce fruit. Fruit ripens late summer fall. Need 2 for Pollination. Zones 6-10."



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Purple Chinese Houses, Collinsia heterophylla

Purple Chinese Houses, Collinsia heterophylla:



lives under oaks and other trees



"Collinsia heterophylla (syn. C. bicolor) is a flowering plant native to California and Baja California. It is known as Purple Chinese Houses or Innocence. Like the other species in the genus Collinsia, which also includes the Blue-eyed Marys, it gets its name from its towers of flower clusters, of decreasing diameter, which give the plants in full flower a certain resemblance to a pagoda. Purple Chinese Houses is an annual plant growing in shady places, and can be found in most of California, other than desert regions, below about 1000 meters. It blooms from mid spring to early summer. The plant is from 10-50 centimeter tall."



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Yerba Mansa, Anemopsis californica

Yerba Mansa, Anemopsis californica:





at least the mother plant wants its feet wet in running water

this has medicinal uses and  spread



"Yerba mansa or lizard tail, is a perennial flowering plant within the family Saururaceae. It is the only species in the monotypic genus Anemopsis. It is native to southwestern North America. In early spring numerous tiny white flowers are borne on a cone which is surrounded by 4-9 large white spoon-shaped bracts that look like petals. As it matures, the visible part of the plant develops red stains, eventually turning bright red in the fall. Yerba mansa means "calming herb" in Spanish (yerba = "herb"; mansa = "calm or tranquil").

Yerba Mansa requires moist soil, so best to plant in streambeds, seeps or other damp areas. It goes dormant and basically disappears from late summer to early winter, and re-sprouts from the roots in late winter. It produces beautiful white flowers in the early spring that remain on the plant until it starts to go dormant in late summer. It will often spread out like a carpet throughout the damper soil, and choke out any other plants in the area, and in particular while it's blooming, it's quite beautiful."



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