The Beauty & Benefit of Native Plants

Beautiful & Beneficial

Alice Keck Park Memorial Garden Landscape Transformation Project

Bringing its Landscape Transformation initiative to Alice Keck Park Memorial Garden, Santa Barbara Botanic Garden is partnering with the City of Santa Barbara Parks and Recreation Department to prove native plants can be both beautiful and beneficial. With one of the Park’s beds now dedicated to California’s native plants, this project redefines curb appeal — showcasing how low-water native landscapes can be lush, colorful, and visually striking while also supporting biodiversity.

By thoughtfully designing with texture, structure, and seasonal color, this bed is a model for homeowners, landscapers, and city planners alike. Visitors can see firsthand how native plants create thriving, vibrant spaces that enhance both ecological health and aesthetic appeal.

We look forward to sharing this next step in the Garden’s mission to inspire sustainable, beautiful landscapes across Santa Barbara – and beyond. Follow along as we bring this vision to life!

2,277

Square feet display bed

168

Native plants to be planted at the site

14

Native plant varieties to be planted

Photo Gallery

The beds at Alice Keck Park Memorial Garden are getting prepped for fresh mulch. (Photo: Ben Bishop)

Garden Grounds Technician Jacob Cobian visits the Park site to check on newly planted native plants and park’s irrigation system. (Photo: Stephanie Ranes)

After a month in the ground, the native plants at the Park are looking good, but weeds are starting to show. (Photo: Stephanie Ranes)

Thanks to Garden staff and our California Native Plant Landscaper Certificate program graduates, fresh mulch and newly planted native plants have arrived at the Park. (Photo: Ben Bishop)

Water Wise Home Garden, photo by Randy Wright

Access Native Plant Lists

Reimagine Your Home Garden

At the Park, we’re showcasing how readily available California-native plants can create stunning, sustainable landscapes. By using common, water-wise plants found in most nurseries, it’s easy for you to see the possibilities for your home garden!

From colorful flowers to drought-tolerant shrubs, we’ve designed a landscape that highlights a range of textures and seasonal interests while also delivering ecological value. In this display, you can explore how native plants support pollinators, attract birds, conserve water, and thrive in Santa Barbara’s unique climate — while still enticing your neighbors.

Find inspiration in this living example and join us as we reimage landscapes with the beauty and practicality of native plants.

Access Plant List and Design Plans

Join the community

Get Involved and Inspired

Discover the beauty and benefits of native plants — and join a growing community.

As part of our Alice Keck Park Memorial Garden Landscape Transformation, we’re sharing our near century of horticultural know-how through hands-on experiences for all ages. From getting your hands dirty as one of our volunteers to bringing everyone outside for a special, interactive family day, you’ll have a chance to meet some of our experts, learn sustainable gardening techniques, and make a real impact – every month.

Whether you’re a homeowner, landscaper, or nature lover, there’s an event that is right for you. Come join us!

Check Out Our Garden Calendar

Alejandro in the Garden looking at silver carpet aster

Meet Our Certified Landscape Pros

Ready to Grow Your Native Plant Garden?

Native landscaping is transforming California gardens, and trained professionals are in high demand. The Garden’s California Native Plant Landscaper Certification (CNPLC) program equips landscapers with the skills to design and maintain stunning, eco-friendly landscapes using native plants. Taught by leading experts, this 19-hour course is available in English and Spanish with flexible scheduling, including nights, weekends, and recorded sessions.

If you’re looking for a landscaper who specializes in native plants, check out our list of certified professionals. With the right expert, you’ll have the support you need to bring sustainable beauty to your home garden!

Find Out Who’s on Our List

Partners & Sponsors

Together, We’re Better

Without the support of our partners and sponsors, this landscape transformation project wouldn’t be possible. As we come together to showcase the beauty and benefits of native plants, we’re growing a space where our community and nature can thrive for generations to come.

Thank you to the City of Santa Barbara Parks and Recreation Department for their commitment to preserving Alice Keck Park Memorial Garden. We’re thrilled to work alongside them to introduce more native plants into our community for all to enjoy.