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Simple plants to withstand the wind, sand, and drought conditions

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Question

We just bought a new place in the outer sunset, on a slightly windy, pretty sunny, and very sandy patch of land. We would like to plant a hedge, some grasses, succulents, and perhaps palms, going for the australian/almost tropical feel. We would also like to keep our plant choices down to a minimum for simplicity, and get things that can withstand the wind, sand, and minimal water. What do you think of the following plants: flax, pygmy palm, senecio malandrasie, echeveria, japanese bloodgrass, banana plant. Any recommendations for a billowy green ornamental grass, and a good hedge that is fast growing, low maintenance and won't grow over 15 feet?
Diana
San Francisco

Answer

Most of the plants on your list will adapt well to that environment. You may want to reconsider the banana. The large leaves rip easily in wind. An alternative would be the Giant Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia nicolai). The bloodgrass will require more moisture than you care to give. Alternates would be Carex testacea or a dwarf flax such as the variety Jack Sprat or Surfer. Companion plants to consider are Euphorbia, Echium and possibly Agapanthus. A good billowy grass is the drought tolerant Mulenbergia (Bamboo or deer grass). Hedge plants that fill your requirements are Dodonaea (Hopseed), Escallonia, and Pittosporum tenuifolium. We also have a Design Department that can help you with on site consultation. Their number is 415-388-3754.

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