If you’re looking for the best flowers to grow in Oakland or a Northern California climate, some optimal plants might include the lovely California Fuchsia, which has the same coloring and brightness one might expect from a tiger lily or similar bold flower. They also feature the same lovely trumpet shape.

Or if clusters of purple are more of what you’re after, you may wish to try planting the California Mountain Lilac. These fragrant mounds of violet colors would soften any landscape, while still providing a burst of color. For some gorgeous sunny color, of course, there are golden California poppies, which will make your whole yard look like the Wizard of Oz, only golden! For a softer, more herby fragrance, California sage might work well in your yard. This will double as a lovely burning herb if you wish to smudge your space for ceremonial purification purposes.

For rockier gardens, the rock rose would be a perfect colorful addition, surprising visitors with its brightness among your gravel. Light purple daisies are a favorite among Northern Californian gardeners as well. And of course, what garden would be complete without a towering row or two of coast sunflowers, swaying in the breeze and greeting you with their happy yellow petals?