Aristea major

This fabulous rarity from South Africa loves our climate here in California ! Simple to grow , its drought tolerant , evergreen and deer resistant too! A member of the Lily family, it makes a dense clump of 3’ tall, upright, spear shaped, dark green leaves. In Spring , the erect spikes appear, rising 2’-3’ above the foliage , bearing brilliant blue , densely held 1 1/2” flowers which stay open all day. There are 100’s of flowers per spike and each opens for only a day.This most striking and architectural plant looks great year around and will make a superb focal point for a dry garden as it doesn’t need any Summer water. It does just as well in an irrigated garden, and is a perfect , carefree subject for a large container. It may take several years to bloom , looking great in the mean time—but let me assure you , it more than worth the wait ! More good news...its hardy down to 10-15 degrees!
Sun

Avg-no Summer Water
S.African bulb/perennial

Hardy to USDA Zone 8

Dipogon lignosus
“Cape Sweet Pea”

Wow, what a wonderful vine! Reliably perennial, evergreen or semi- evergreen in USDA zone 10 & 11 , this amazingly fast growing member of the pea vine will reach 10’ in 2 to 3 months ! Better than that , it blooms from Spring through Fall bearing a multitude of lovely & fragrant clusters of pea-type flowers. Held on arching stems , the sweet, grape –soda scented, purply-pink flower clusters look lovely against the good-sized, lush, heart-shaped leaves. The whole vine is quite romantic looking and perfect for covering an arbor or growing around a door. Makes a quick fence cover too. Easy as pie to grow, Dipogon lignosus just needs rich soil and average water . Full sun provides the best show, but part sun will do . Self sows too!
Sun –pt. sun

Average water
Perennial vine

USDA zones 10-11