Plant Library
A curated selection of species proven to perform in the Tuolumne County foothills. Drought tolerant, deer resistant, and beautiful.
Crape Myrtle
Lagerstroemia indica
Verdict: The heat-loving star of summer. Showy flowers when everything else is drab, plus peeling bark.
Jerusalem Sage
Phlomis fruticosa
Verdict: Indestructible. Fuzzy grey leaves and whorls of yellow flowers. Suppresses weeds effectively.
Lavender ‘Grosso’
Lavandula x intermedia
Verdict: The commercial variety grown in Provence. Huge, long stems and intense fragrance. Very hardy.
Periwinkle
Vinca Major
Verdict: Common ornamental escape in historic foothill towns. Non-native and often invasive near water or old homesteads.
Pomegranate ‘Wonderful’
Punica granatum
Verdict: Loves the heat, tolerates poor soil, and has beautiful orange flowers. The fruit is a bonus.
Rockrose ‘Sunset’
Cistus x pulverulentus 'Sunset'
Verdict: A low-growing spreader that covers dry banks with magenta flowers. Fire resistant if hydrated.
Rosemary ‘Tuscan Blue’
Salvia rosmarinus
Verdict: The ultimate Mediterranean shrub. Deer won't touch it, it smells great, and it cooks well.
Star Jasmine
Trachelospermum jasminoides
Verdict: The go-to evergreen vine for trellises and fences. Intensely fragrant white flowers in early summer.
Yuletide Camellia
Camellia sasanqua 'Yuletide'
Verdict: The Christmas camellia that lights up winter gardens with vibrant red blooms when everything else is dormant. Perfect for festive seasonal interest.