Plant Library

A curated selection of species proven to perform in the Tuolumne County foothills. Drought tolerant, deer resistant, and beautiful.

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Abies concolor

Verdict: A classic high-elevation evergreen with soft, bluish-green needles. Brings a touch of the high Sierra to the upper foothills.

Aesculus californica

Verdict: Famous for its candle-like flower spikes in spring and its silvery, sculptural bark in winter. Goes dormant early.

Pinus sabiniana

Verdict: The wispy, translucent silhouette of the foothills. Provides quick shade and screening where oaks take decades.

Quercus lobata

Verdict: The undisputed monarch of the California valley and foothills. Requires ample space but rewards you with shade and legacy for centuries.

Acer circinatum

Verdict: A stunning multi-stemmed small tree or shrub with brilliant fall color. Thrives in the shade of larger trees or along creeks.

Cercis occidentalis

Verdict: A four-season stunner: magenta spring blooms, heart-shaped summer leaves, and rusty seed pods in winter.