While ambling along an oceanfront walkway in Laguna Beach recently, I stopped to admire this beautiful, bold, sculptural plant aptly named “Pride of Madeira” (Echium candicans). This evergreen, tough, low-water shrub is in the Borage family – the same family as the humble Forget-Me-Not. Pride of Madeira has long been widely utilized in Southern California, especially in coastal … More The Color Purple
“The deep roots never doubt Spring will come.” – Marty Rubin As winter retreats, there are abundant signs that fresh energy is gathering – it is evident in the lush buds forming on a a variety of plants in my own garden. We have been fortunate to have substantial rain this winter in California and today … More Countdown to Spring
One year ago this month my niece’s wedding took place on a perfect August day in Laguna Beach. I had the honor of assisting with many of the arrangements for the wedding, including overseeing the floral design, and I chose to feature two of my favorite cut flowers – both members of the ancient plant family, Proteaceae. These plants … More Ancient Flowers & Memories of an August Beach Wedding
Bark is often underappreciated as an integral aspect of what makes certain trees extraordinary. Acer griseum – commonly called the Paperbark Maple – is a perfect example of this and is one of my favorite trees. It was love at first sight when I beheld one at Gamble Garden and I immediately found and planted one in … More “Barking” up the Right Tree
As we are in the midst of summer’s heat, I continue to appreciate the beautiful screening provided by this amazing vine – Vitis californica – aka ‘Roger’s Red’ – a hybrid of the native California wild grape. This vine climbs up my own porch fence (with two wires above it) and now provides a beautiful … More Vines – Often “Overlooked” as Privacy Screens
I don’t include many roses in planting plans these days as most clients seek low-water or drought tolerant plants – and rightly so. For those who cannot live without roses, I suggest they choose a few they love, place them close to the house or an outdoor seating area or path where the beauty and … More Jude the Obscure – A Perfect English Rose
French Design & Fine Gardening 