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Designing a Low‑Water, Rain‑Forest‑Style Garden in Southern California

Alice wants a green, low‑maintenance garden with elephant ears in a kidney‑shaped bed with morning sun. Southern California's water conservation needs make true rain‑forest plants impractical.

Water‑Wise Alternatives

Native and Mediterranean plants: agaves, yuccas, aloes, ice plants, sages, artemisia, lantana.
Australian/New Zealand foliage: cordyline, phormium, coprosma.
Cyperus, pothos, philodendron for background texture.
Cast iron plant, ferns, bamboos, small palms, cycads, cacti (opuntia), rosemary.

Resources: BeWaterWise and Plant Delights.

Elephant ears need more water; consider them only if you can provide consistent moisture.

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