Best Native Plants for Sacramento & Surrounding Suburbs
Sacramento’s long, dry summers and clay-heavy soils make plant selection one of the most important decisions in any landscape. Many traditional ornamental plants struggle in extended heat, leading to higher water bills, stressed plants, and ongoing maintenance.
California native plants are naturally adapted to our region’s Mediterranean climate. When chosen carefully and planted correctly, they can create landscapes that are resilient, water-wise, and well-suited to neighborhoods throughout Sacramento, Elk Grove, Roseville, Folsom, Granite Bay, Fair Oaks, and surrounding communities.
Below are ten native plants that consistently perform well in residential landscapes across the Sacramento Valley.
Why Native Plants Perform Better in Sacramento
Sacramento experiences:
Hot, dry summers
Very little rainfall between late spring and fall
Mild, wet winters
Periodic drought conditions
Clay-dominant soils in many neighborhoods
Native plants evolved under similar conditions. Once established, many require less irrigation and fewer inputs than imported ornamental varieties. They are not “no maintenance,” but they are often more stable and predictable long-term.
For homeowners, that means fewer plant replacements and a landscape better suited to our climate.
1. California Fuchsia (Epilobium canum)
California fuchsia is a low-growing perennial known for its bright red tubular flowers in late summer and fall — a time when many other plants have stopped blooming.
Sun: Full sun
Water: Very low once established
Best for: Hot exposures, slopes, borders
This plant thrives in Sacramento heat and attracts hummingbirds, making it a strong choice for pollinator-friendly landscapes.
2. Western Redbud (Cercis occidentalis)
Western redbud is a small native tree or large shrub with vibrant pink flowers in early spring.
Sun: Full sun to part shade
Water: Low
Best for: Accent tree, front yard focal point
It works especially well in residential neighborhoods in Sacramento and Roseville where homeowners want seasonal color without high water demands.
3. Coffeeberry (Frangula californica)
Coffeeberry is a versatile evergreen shrub with glossy leaves and berries that shift from red to black.
Sun: Full sun to part shade
Water: Low
Best for: Privacy screening, foundation planting
It performs well across Sacramento suburbs and tolerates clay soil better than many imported shrubs.
4. Manzanita (Arctostaphylos species)
Manzanitas are known for their sculptural form, smooth reddish bark, and winter flowers.
Sun: Full sun
Water: Very low
Best for: Slopes, architectural plantings, modern designs
When properly sited with good drainage, manzanita can be extremely drought tolerant and long-lived.
5. California Poppy (Eschscholzia californica)
California’s state flower adds bright seasonal color with minimal care.
Sun: Full sun
Water: Very low
Best for: Borders, naturalized areas
It reseeds easily and performs well in lean soils common throughout Sacramento.
6. Deer Grass (Muhlenbergia rigens)
Deer grass is a large native bunchgrass that provides strong texture and structure.
Sun: Full sun
Water: Low
Best for: Accent plantings, erosion control
Its durability makes it a reliable option in Folsom and Granite Bay properties with exposed, sunny areas.
7. Narrowleaf Milkweed (Asclepias fascicularis)
This native perennial supports monarch butterflies and other pollinators.
Sun: Full sun
Water: Low
Best for: Pollinator gardens
It is especially valuable for homeowners interested in habitat-supportive landscapes.
8. California Lilac (Ceanothus species)
Ceanothus produces dramatic blue flowers in spring.
Sun: Full sun
Water: Very low once established
Best for: Slopes, screening, foundation planting
Proper drainage is important, but when planted correctly, it offers strong seasonal impact.
9. Yarrow (Achillea millefolium – California varieties)
Yarrow is a low-growing perennial with flat flower clusters.
Sun: Full sun
Water: Low
Best for: Groundcover, borders
It spreads naturally and tolerates summer heat well, making it suitable for many suburban yards.
10. Toyon (Heteromeles arbutifolia)
Toyon is a large evergreen shrub with white flowers in summer and red berries in winter.
Sun: Full sun to part shade
Water: Low
Best for: Privacy screening, larger properties
It provides year-round structure and wildlife support.
When to Plant Native Plants in Sacramento
Timing matters.
In most Sacramento Valley neighborhoods, fall (October through early December) is the best time to plant native species. Cooler temperatures and seasonal rainfall allow roots to establish before summer heat arrives.
Spring planting can also work, but irrigation must be monitored closely as temperatures rise.
Avoid peak summer installation when possible, as transplant stress increases significantly during extreme heat.
Planning a Native Landscape
While native plants are well-adapted to our region, proper placement and irrigation strategy are still important. Factors such as sun exposure, soil drainage, and long-term maintenance expectations should be considered before planting.
Homeowners throughout Sacramento and surrounding suburbs are increasingly turning to native landscaping as a durable alternative to high-water lawns and ornamental plantings.
If you’re planning a native landscape, our free Sacramento Native Landscaping Guide provides more detailed planting and care guidance to help you get started.
