The Forestry Division of the County of Los Angeles Fire Department recommends that when deciding what to plant, the homeowner should select plants for the desirable attributes of fire resistance, low maintenance, availability, and erosion control effectiveness.
TREES
Trees are particularly valuable on steep hillsides. The roots of many trees go much deeper than those of most ground cover plants. Trees that resprout after burning are generally the best choice for wildland areas, so you do not have to replant and the roots continue to grow. Selections for new tree plantings may include California natives like Coast Live Oak, Valley Oak, Toyon, Alder, Black Walnut, and California Laurel.
SHRUBS
Selections for new shrub plantings may include Aaron’s Beard, California Fuchsia, Carmel Creeper, Creeping Rosemary, Creeping Sage, Dwarf Coyote Brush, Green Lavender-Cotton, Gray Lavender-Cotton, Small Leafed Ice Plants, and Point Reyes Ceanothus.
GROUND COVERS
Selections for new ground cover plantings may include Bearberry Manzanita, Trailing African Daisy, Sunrose, and Wooly Yarrow.
GRASSES
Selections for grass plantings or seeding may include Red Fescue and Bird's Foot Trefoil.
