Common name:Crape Myrtle
Botanical name:Lagerstroemia indica

The new leaves of this species are 2" long, bright green, and tinged with bronze. Some cultivars have spectacular fall color. When it has a bare outline, its rounded seed capsules add interest. Its delicate flowers bloom in 6"-12" long clusters. The flower colors could be shades of red, rose, pink, purple, and white, blooming in summer. It thrives on heat, and new cultivars have been created that resist mildew. This tree prefers full sun and has low watering needs once it's established.

Common name:Santa Cruz Blue Hibiscus
Botanical name:Alyogyne huegelii 'Santa Cruz'

This fast-growing, open, spreading shrub typically grows 3' to 6' tall and wide; it produces deep, dark purple blooms.

Common name:Mediterranean Fan palm
Botanical name:Chamaerops humilis

Slow growing to 20' tall but very hardy, the Mediterranean Fan palm is clump forming with rich green foliage. It can be used as a good container subject. It does best in full sun or partial shade. Petioles have sharp spines.

Common name:Home Run Pink Rose
Botanical name:Rosa ?WEKPhom' P.P.A.F.

This attractive, hardy shrub grows 3.5'-4' tall and wide. Hot pink flowers bloom from spring through fall. This rose prefers full sun, well draining, acidic, fertile, moist soil. It is resistant to powdery mildew and tolerates heat and humidity. Flowers are not fragrant but don't need deadheading and are beautiful. This plant is great in borders.

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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