Common name: Artichoke
Botanical name: Cynara scolymus

This perennial will grow 4' tall and 6'-8' wide. It has silvery green leaves with bluish purple flowers that bloom in spring. Artichoke is a favorite fruit/vegetable of California kitchens but it is a great ornamental plant often overlooked for color contrast. It is very tolerant of little water when planted for ornamental purposes.

Common name: King Palm
Botanical name: Archontophoenix cunninghamiana

This is a beautiful palm which grows 40' or higher with a 10'-15' spread. The feathery leaves can grow 10' in length and are green above and gray beneath. It tolerates shade and can grow beneath tall trees for a long time if needed. It 's unique because it can be used as an indoor plant and will tolerate temperatures down to 28 degrees F.

Common name: Japanese Boxwood
Botanical name: Buxus microphylla japonica

Japanese Boxwood is often used as a hedge. It is compact, with small bright green leaves. It can reach 4'-6' tall and wide or be kept smaller through pruning. It can be sheared to shape. It does better in areas with milder winters.

Common name: New Zealand Flax
Botanical name: Phormium tenax

New Zealand Flax is a large, bold plant with stiffly vertical, sword-like, olive green leaves that arise from its base, reaching 8'-10' tall. Leaves are 3"-4" wide. Orange red flowers appear on stalks, high above the leaves in spring. It can be grown in full sun to light shade. This hardy plant can be grown near the coast or in hot inland areas. It does better with regular irrigation.

Common name: White Gaura
Botanical name: Gaura lindheimeri

White Gaura is a profusely flowering perennial for all zones; it grows 2'-4' high. It has pink buds that open to showy white flowers in spring and fall. It needs full sun and is drought tolerant.