Local Plants

The Monterey Bay area is home to a large number of native plants.  Of the approximately 25,500 vascular plant taxa native to North America north of Mexico (NatureServe.org), nearly 10 percent (2500 taxa) are found in Monterey and San Benito counties (CalFlora.org). With such a rich diversity of native plants in our area, our chapter is dedicated to furthering the preservation and conservation of the native flora and plant communities of Monterey and San Benito counties.

Endemic Plants

The diverse geologic history and climatic conditions of the Monterey Bay area have created a mosaic of isolated and specialized environments, which contribute to the evolution of locally endemic plants.  A number of locations in our area are known for their locally endemic species, including the Montery Penninsula, Fort Ord dunes, the northern Santa Luica mountains, and Fort Hunger Leggitt.

See our endemic plants page for information on endemic plant species of Monterey and San Benito counties.

Plant Checklists

Our chapter members have created plant lists for 33 local natural areas, including regional parks, county parks, state parks, and a few trails within the Los Padres National Forest. It is helpful to print and bring a plant list when visiting one of these natural areas, because they can help locate plants and confirm identifications.

See our plant lists page to download plant species lists for local natural areas.

Native Plant Gardens

Growing native plants in landscapes can save water, lower maintenance, reduce pesticides, invite wildlife, support local ecology, and connect people to nature. The Monterey Bay area boasts several beautiful native plant gardens, designed to showcase the ecological and horticultural value of local native plants.

See our native gardens page for information on these special places.

Wildflower Reports

Every spring and summer, we encourage chapter members to submit wildflower reports, descriptions of floral displays in local natural areas. Flower report descriptions should include date visited, species present, trail conditions and any other relevant information. For 2012, no reports have been submitted yet.

View our wildflower reports page.

Invasive Plants

Our chapter volunteers have committed to combat invasive plants such as French broom, jubata grass, Cape ivy and other noxious invasive weeds in high priority natural areas. These invasive species can modify and dominate natural habitats, reducing their habitat value to native plants and animals.

See our events calendar for scheduled restoration workdays.

endemic Jolon Clarkia by Brian LeNeve