Here are ten great plants for landscaping in Northern California during the fall, chosen for their ability to thrive in the region’s climate and add seasonal interest:
- California Fuchsia (Epilobium canum) – A native perennial that blooms with bright red or orange flowers in late summer and fall, attracting hummingbirds.
- Toyon (Heteromeles arbutifolia) – A native shrub known for its clusters of bright red berries in fall and winter, providing food for birds.
- Western Redbud (Cercis occidentalis) – A small deciduous tree with heart-shaped leaves that turn golden-yellow in the fall, followed by purple seed pods.
- Manzanita (Arctostaphylos spp.) – An evergreen shrub that adds year-round structure, with smooth red bark and fall-blooming pink or white flowers.
- Dwarf Coyote Brush (Baccharis pilularis ‘Pigeon Point’) – A hardy ground cover that stays green year-round and helps with erosion control, blooming in late fall.
- Pineapple Sage (Salvia elegans) – A fragrant perennial with striking red flowers that bloom in late fall, attracting pollinators like bees and hummingbirds.
- Purple Needle Grass (Stipa pulchra) – A California native grass that provides texture and movement, with fall seed heads adding a golden shimmer to landscapes.
- Coneflower (Echinacea purpurea) – A drought-tolerant perennial with vibrant purple or pink flowers that bloom in late summer and persist into fall.
- Heuchera (Heuchera spp.) – Also known as coral bells, these perennials offer colorful foliage in shades of red, purple, or bronze, making them perfect for fall interest.
- Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum) – A popular small tree with brilliant fall foliage in shades of red, orange, and yellow, perfect for adding dramatic color.
These plants are well-suited for Northern California’s fall climate, offering a mix of seasonal color, texture, and wildlife-friendly features.