Plant Identification: Putting a name to it

“What is that?”  This is a frequent question at Refugio de Los Angeles. Over the years our gardens, trees and vegetation have grown exponentially. The variety of trees and plants reintroduced to the property has multiplied with admirable vigor. Ornamentals bearing colorful blossoms and enchanting fragrances proliferate. The bees and butterflies have sown seeds all over. While they know what they’ve propagated, many of us need visual cues. Plant identification and labeling some of the many things that thrive here has become a yearly ritual.

When biologist Wendy Bishop visits during the planting season, she devotes hours to the task of identifying in legible lettering the diverse selection of plant life that exists on Refugio de Los Angeles.

Her knowledge of medicinal plants has prompted us to search for more varieties with healing capabilities. Hiking around the property with Wendy is an educational experience as well as a treasure hunt. Every year new species are introduced and exploited for their medicinal benefits.

Trees dominate the landscape. After almost a quarter of a century on the property, I find their presence both familiar and very reassuring. Labels at the base of these trees are more
homage than name calling for all who pass by.

The seasons challenge the life span of these labels but like the living things they acknowledge, their resilience is a reminder that the extraordinary diversity found on the Pacific slope must not be taken for granted.