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This backyard is linked to
an open space preserve by a gate at the top of the lot.
The naturally occurring plant community of the preserve is
Oak Woodland. Most of the natural bunch grasses that
would have grown in the area have been out-competed by
annual European grasses. Therefore, the goal of this
design was to re-establish a California Grassland Meadow
consisting of native bunch grasses. Selections used are
Purple Needle Grass, California Melic, and California
Fescue. A mix of California native annual and perennial
wildflowers, as well as, other members of the Oak Woodland
community using Coast Live Oak, Redbud and Coffeeberry,
accompanies the grasses.
To
compliment the Mediterranean stucco home, the design
incorporates a curved stairway and upper patio of Arizona
flagstone. In the center of the upper patio, is a
chiseled granite stone fountain. At its base are dark
grey La Paz pebbles. Surrounding the patio is a late
summer, sunny border comprised of Buckwheats, Hummingbird
Fuchsias and Asters. Along the stairs, five different
species of Penstemon are planted in masses of threes and
fives. These give a spectacular display of color from
spring to summer. Reds, blues, purples and pale lavenders
bloom at different times and are set off by the warm
colors of Yarrow and several species of Buckwheats. In a
few short years, the Coast Live Oaks will provide shade to
the upper patio. Currently, a garden umbrella serves as
protection from California’s sun. |
