Plant observations can point to potential habitat in your own yard

Shoreline plants along Botanical Beach. (Photo: W. Peek)

In observing shoreline plants along Botanical Beach this week, I was so taken by the beauty of what was growing in the pebbly sand. Observing native plants in conditions similar to those found in our own yards can give important clues about what might thrive there. Pure sand is a challenge if you want to grow conventional nursery plants, but not for native plants.

Just in this photo we can see Silverweed (Potentilla anserina), Rushes (Juncus spp.), Seaside plantain (Plantago maritima), Beach pea (Lathyrus japonicus) and California Aster (Symphyotricum chilense).

An assemblage of plants like this can inform plantings in some of our pure sand areas, around Point Holmes in Comox, for example. When taken with careful observations of surrounding ecosystems, exisiting native plants, and overall site conditions, this could be the beginning of a beautiful plant palate for a coastal garden.