Common name:Flowering Maple
Botanical name:Abutilon hybrids

Flowering Maple usually grow to 8'-10' tall and as wide. Most will tolerate frost to 25 degrees F or lower with some damage. All are irresistible to hummingbirds with their showy flowers and heavy nectar production. They will take sun to moderately deep shade and little or no summer watering in coastal areas. They should be given more shade and water in hotter, drier climates. They make an excellent plant for containers. -Monterey Bay Nursery

Common name:European Grapevine
Botanical name:Vitis vinifera

This vine grows 20'-30' long. Many species of this vine produce today's wines and grapes. There are thousands of species worldwide, but this plant originated in Europe. Vitis is a woody perennial that climbs its way around the supports. It does better with long, warm to hot summers, with mild winters. Frost will kill the young shoots. Vitis does not do well with humidity, as it promotes disease. Well-drained soil is important also.

Common name:Tuscan Blue Upright Rosemary
Botanical name:Rosmarinus officinalis 'Tuscan Blue'

The Upright Rosemary is an upright shrub that grows 3'-6' tall. It has dark green leaves and bright, showy, lavender blue flowers throughout the year. This shrub is drought tolerant and attracts butterflies. -Cornflower Farms

Common name:Little Ollie Dwarf Olive
Botanical name:Olea europaea 'Little Ollie'

This evergreen shrub will grow to 8' tall and doesn't produce any fruit. It will do well in hot dry areas but can also survive in coastal areas.

Dealing With Drought

More than half of the water used at your home is for outside purposes. Studies show that on average, half of the water used outdoors is wasted. The leading cause of waste is incorrectly set and poorly managed irrigation controllers. The second biggest cause of wastage is broken irrigation equipment that goes undetected. There are a few basic things you can do to make a big difference in your water use.

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