Put the sun lovers in the sun, shade lovers in the shade. Size plants by the ultimate size. This is this ultimate water wise garden. Check List Figure out the most important aspects of your yard. Where do the plants, deck, walks, bird bath etc.
Companion Plants Put the plants together as they grow in the wild.
You wouldn't think of living with a lion or tiger. Design Using Plant Strategies Put the same type of plants together. Manzanita with pines and oaks, creek plants with creek plants. When To Plant Natives One of the myths of 'drought tolerant', xeriscaping, and native landscaping is that you can only plant in fall. Don't underestimate California plants, but don't bring soft coastal plants to spots like ours in winter, they freeze.