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.
Common Yarrow
Perennial
Achillea millefolium
Easy to Grow
White and Yellow Flowering , Spring to Summer
Supports Bats, Birds, Bees, Caterpillars and 15 species of Butterflies and Moths
Type: Perennial
Size:1 to 3ft
Watering: Maximum Summer Water 1 x / week
uses: TAGS Deer Resistant, Fire Safe, Will grow in Pots, Lawn Alternative
Red Fescue
Perennial Grass
Festuca rubra
Red fescue makes mounding lawn or soft groundcover and can be mowed to 2 inches.
Thrives in Cool Season, often becomes brown and dormant in the Summer heat
Suitable for a meadow garden as well as in dry shade under oaks.
Supports 12 species of Butterflies and Moths
In the natural landscape, it is often among the pioneer species that colonize disturbed areas, contributing to soil stabilization and establishing more complex plant communities.
Type: Grass
Size: 1 to 2 ft
Watering: Maximum Summer Water 1x / Month
uses: TAGS Deer Resistant, Fire Safe, Lawn Alternative
Woodland Strawberry
Perennial
Fragaria vesca
Easy to Grow
Winter Spring Flowering and Spring Summer Fruiting
Grows in Dry Shade under oaks
Supports Bats, Birds, Caterpillars and 42 species of Butterflies and Moths
Ecological History
Type Perennial
Size: To 1 ft
Watering: Maximum Summer Water 3 x / Month
uses: TAGS Deer Resistant, Fire Safe, Self Seeds, Will grow in Pots