Plants and Landscapes For Summer-Dry Climates

Winner of American Horticultural Society's 2005 Book Award

EBMUD's beautifully photographed book features more than 650 native Californian and Mediterranean plants suited to the Bay Area. Over 500 garden setting photos illustrate attractive plant combinations that require low to no summer water once established. Order directly through EBMUD or buy at local and online bookstores.

Order Now 

• $29.95 plus tax for EBMUD customers
• $49.95 plus tax for orders outside of the service area
• Free shipping
• Book sellers: Email us directly at waterconservation@ebmud.com for orders.

Please note: Softcover is no longer available. 

The book integrates plant choice and plant design recommendations from local gardeners, landscape designers, horticulturists, and nursery owners.

“Simply stunning! Bravo!” Phyllis Faber, University of California “A truly fine book . . . off the charts. Highest recommendations.” Katherine Grace Endicott, San Francisco Chronicle

"A feast for the eyes, loaded with lush photographs and helpful tips.” Sean O’Hara, Mediterranean Garden Society

What is inside?

For a preview of the book click here.  

Chapters include information on:

• Climate and natural plant communities
• Garden design and maintenance
• Inspiration for creating lush landscapes while conserving water
• Limiting green waste
• Protecting creeks and providing habitat for wildlife
• Charts and lists to assist in selecting plants for special situations
• Gardens that attract butterflies and birds
• Information on each plant's needs for sun and water, frost tolerance, and soil preferences

You may also View and Search the plants from the book by plant type (i.e. shrub, tree, perennial), name, genus, or by generic garden terms, such as "flower" or "path" online.

*Please note that while the plant book includes climate appropriate plants, inclusion in the book does not guarentee eligibility for a lawn conversion rebate project. Reach out to waterconservation@ebmud.com with questions.

Bookstores carrying Plants and Landscapes

The bookstores listed below carry Plants and Landscapes for Summer-Dry Climates. Call to confirm that the book is currently in stock.

Visit the UC Botanical Garden at 200 Centennial Drive in Berkeley to see the plants fully grown and thriving and to get ideas for your own landscape!