Hanging Baskets

There are many California native plants that do well in containers. For hanging baskets in partial shade and moderate water try yerba mansa (Anemopsis californica), woodland or seaside strawberry (Fragaria californica, F. chiloensis), wild mints (Monardella villosa, M. macrantha) and yerba buena (Satureja douglasii). All of these will spill over the pot. Western columbine (Aquilegia formosa), sedges like Carex praegracilis, and rush (Juncus patens) have a more upright habit and look nice in the center of the pot. Dudleyas and sedums also do well in pots, though they require excellent drainage and less water.

You can combine different plants in pots as long as their water, soil and sun requirements are similar. Consider putting a western columbine in the center of the pot with wild strawberries spilling over the sides. Yerba mansa, has showy white flowers in the spring and long draping stems, responsible for its other common name, lizard’s tail. A pot of yerba mansa, meadow rue (Thalictrum fendleri var. polycarpum ) and rush mimics a small wetland area. Coral bells (Heuchera spp.) also do well in pots and look nice with woodland strawberries and California fescue (Festuca californica).

Container planting provides exciting gardening opportunities for everyone, including those with limited space or physical capabilities. Visit the RSABG Container Garden for new ideas on growing California native plants in pots.