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California Native Plants

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California Redwood

Want to go native? Find the best selection of indigenous species for the diverse State of California here at Nature Hills Nursery! Ranging from USDA growing zones 5 in the mountains and northern parts of the state to hardiness zone 11 in the south, California has a wide range of biomes!

Choosing native trees for your State means you will know your tree will thrive where it is well suited to climate and soil because they originated there! Native selections establish faster and tolerate local growing zones, climate, weather, and anything else your State can throw at them! Plus you’ll feed pollinators, songbirds, and wildlife by providing them with a tree they recognize!

Best California Native Trees

California has a vastly wide range of topography! From mountainous to coastal to desert, California has it all! First, find your Hardiness Zone, and then choose any tree that has a range that includes yours! Check with your local County Extension Office for more information if needed and for the many microclimates within these zones.

The California Redwood Tree is the State Tree of California and along with California Lilacs and California Privets, you have a wide range of natives to choose from for your landscape!

Best Evergreen Trees For California

Flowering Trees to Grow

These California Native Evergreen Trees keep their leaves year-round for privacy.

  • Arizona Cypress
  • Concolor Fir
  • Douglas Fir Trees
  • Lodgepole Pine
  • Piñón Pine
  • Pacific Wax Myrtle Tree
  • Ponderosa Pine
  • Sitka Spruce like Papoose

The Best Flowering Trees to Grow in California

Feed pollinators and hummingbirds nectar and pollen they evolved alongside in your State!

  • Coast Silktassel
  • Western Redbud Tree
  • Ray Hartman California Lilac
  • Pacific Wax Myrtle
  • Toyon
  • Whiteleaf Manzanita Tree

What Are Good Shade Trees in California?

California can have some warm summer temperatures but snow in the winter, so a shade tree helps beat cooling costs and gives your backyard lush relief from the sun!

  • Arizona Ash
  • Native Box Elder
  • Chinquapin Oak
  • Cottonwood Tree
  • Hackberry Tree
  • Ponderosa Pine
  • Quaking Aspen (northern and higher elevations only)
  • Sugarberry Tree
  • Sycamore Tree
  • Desert Willow Tree
  • Coast Redwood like Aptos Blue
  • Vine Maple Tree

Native Fruit & Nut Trees in California

We love edible landscaping trees that look great and feed you! Feed wildlife and songbirds as well! California does have the corner market for western-grown Citrus, Dates, Nut Trees, and Olives because of the Mediterranean climate in many parts of the state.

  • American Persimmon
  • Black Walnut
  • Chickasaw Plum
  • Downy & Saskatoon Serviceberry (Western Shadbush)

Much Needed Natives!

Whether you are adding shade or flowers, privacy, or a long-lasting legacy to your landscape, Nature Hills is here to help you find the perfect tree for your California garden!


Help keep your State's native biodiversity intact by planting trees native to your area! Nature Hills is committed to helping you preserve your State’s unique beauty with plants and trees that are sure to do well in your garden without impacting your native flora and fauna!

 

Shop Native Plants for California

FAQS for Buying California Native Plants Online

What are the best native trees to plant in California?

Some of the top native trees for California include the California Redwood, Toyon, Western Redbud, Pacific Wax Myrtle, and Manzanita. These trees are well adapted to California’s diverse climates—from arid deserts to coastal zones—and provide critical support for native wildlife and pollinators.

Which California native trees are evergreen and good for privacy?

If you’re looking for year-round foliage and screening, California natives like Douglas Fir, Arizona Cypress, Ponderosa Pine, Concolor Fir, and Pacific Wax Myrtle are excellent choices. These evergreens offer beauty, privacy, and low-maintenance solutions for landscapes across a range of growing zones.

What flowering native trees grow well in California?

California offers a variety of stunning native flowering trees such as the Western Redbud, Coast Silktassel, Ray Hartman California Lilac, and Whiteleaf Manzanita. These trees attract hummingbirds and beneficial insects while adding color and seasonal interest to your landscape.

What are the best native shade trees for California yards?

Excellent native shade trees for California include the Coast Redwood, Sycamore, Sugarberry, Ponderosa Pine, and Desert Willow. These trees provide cooling shade, help lower energy costs, and are adapted to California’s hot, dry summers and varied soils.

Are there edible native fruit and nut trees for California landscapes?

Yes! California’s native edible trees include American Persimmon, Black Walnut, Chickasaw Plum, and Serviceberries. These trees not only provide delicious fruit and nuts but also contribute to local biodiversity and serve as vital food sources for birds and pollinators.

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Find Your Garden's Growing Zone!

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When ordering a tree or plant, make sure to know your planting zone.

You can determine your garden’s USDA hardiness zone by entering your Zip Code below.