Plant natives in the fall

Photo from Back to Natives Restoration

Back to Natives Restoration, a local Orange County non-profit group, suggests drought-tolerant plants for local gardens. Many attract hummingbirds and butterflies.

The Penstemon spectabilis, or showy Penstemon, shown above, is a perennial native to coastal Southern California. Hummingbirds love its iridescent purple-blue flowers that bloom in the spring. Plant it in full sun and water as little as 4-inches a year once it's established. 

Plant natives in the fall or winter so they become acclimated. During the summer give the plant a little water in the early morning to encourage blooming and to keep natives from going dormant.

For more native plant selections, go to Back to Natives Restoration.

Happy Birding!
J.J.