For her garden, Robin wanted an essence of California-- mediterranean, dry, light, and a dusty palette of the coast just south. California natives do well in Portland, but are rarely used. And even so, both states share native species. We had been waiting for the opportunity to visit Xera Plants and Cistus nursery. What a joy it was to be on the road and visiting such incredible horticultural institutions. Researching hardiness, we tested many plants. This rendered varieties of cactus, yucca, perennials, and grasses that tolerate the frost and conditions. While some plants we tested did not live up to the frost, it is always worth trying. Gardening is a practice of trial and error.

The house is situated on a corner lot so we collaborated with Robin on building a fence that would allow the garden to be experienced by the public. Many thanks to Robin for your enthusiasm, endless collaboration, and trusting of our vision.