Drought-Tolerant Landscapes

What 'California-friendly' and native planting mean

'Drought-tolerant' (or 'California-friendly') plants survive on little supplemental water once established. 'Native' plants originated in California and are adapted to local climate, soil, and wildlife. Both reduce water use, but natives specifically support local pollinators and ecosystems.

Plant palettes by region

• Coastal: California buckwheat, salvia, manzanita, ceanothus, yarrow, Pacific coast iris
• Inland valley: Cleveland sage, toyon, fremontodendron, deer grass, penstemon, agave
• Desert: Palo verde, desert willow, agave, ocotillo, brittlebush, fairy duster
• Foothill: California buckeye, toyon, manzanita, iris, native grasses
• Mountain: Incense cedar, manzanita, mountain mahogany, native penstemon

Soil preparation and mulch

Test soil, amend as needed, and apply 2–4 inches of mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Avoid burying plant crowns.

Sheet mulching for lawn removal

Sheet mulching layers cardboard or paper over the lawn, then compost and mulch, to smother grass without excavation. It builds soil and is often eligible for turf-replacement rebates.

How much water is saved

Maintenance realities

• Establishment watering for the first 1–2 years
• Periodic pruning and deadheading
• Weed control while plants fill in
• Irrigation checks and seasonal adjustment

Common mistakes

• Overwatering drought-tolerant plants
• Planting the wrong species for your climate zone
• Skipping soil prep and mulch
• No drip irrigation or hydrozoning

Public plant databases

• California Native Plant Society (calscape.org)
• Your water agency's plant list
• UC Master Gardener program resources