Marin Backyard Habitats

The Marin Backyard Habitats program invites you to transform your yard into a thriving habitat by planting native species that support local wildlife, conserve water, and improve soil health.

By replacing invasive plants and reducing pesticide use, you can protect waterways from pollution and create a sanctuary for birds, bees, bats, butterflies, and more.

Start your journey to creating a healthy backyard habitat by selecting plants from the searchable Marin Local Native Plant Guide listing below .

Here we have suggested over 40 resilient local native plants that will enrich your garden, improve your appreciation of local wildlife and enhance the resilience of your neighborhood.

Farewell To Spring

Annual

Clarkia amoena

Easy to Grow
Bright pink , purple flowers in spring and summer.

Supports Bees, Bats, Caterpillars , Hummingbirds , and 5 species of Butterflies and Moths


A California native wildflower that has been growing in the region for over 10,000 years
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Type: Annual
Size: to 3 ft tall

Watering : Max summer water 1x month
notes: Deer resistant

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Full Sun, Dry Soil, Bees, Birds, Butterflies, Caterpillars Maya Normandi Full Sun, Dry Soil, Bees, Birds, Butterflies, Caterpillars Maya Normandi

Hairy Leaved Sunflower

Annual

Helianthus annuus

Easy to Grow

Yellow, Orange flowers in Summer

Supports Bats, Birds, Bees, Caterpillars and 37 species of Butterflies and Moths

Our wild native Sunflower had its origins here in North America at least 5,000 years ago , is an ancestor of the agricultural varieties grown around the world today.

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Type:Annual
Size: to 5 ft + Tall

waTERING: Summer Water Maximum 1x / week
Notes: Easy to Grow , Will grow in Pots

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Rock Phacelia

Annual /Perennial

Phacelia californica

Easy to Grow

Lavender, White Flowers. Spring and Summer

Supports Bats, Bees, Caterpillars and 11 species of Butterflies and Moths
This native wildflower is a food source for the Mission blue butterfly, an endangered species endemic to San Francisco.

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Type: Annual /Perennial
Size: To 1 ft

Watering: never irrigate once established

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