Best Plants for Fresno, California

Smooth hydrangea (Hydrangea arborescens) is a tough, native shrub producing massive white flower heads from June through September. Extremely cold-hardy to Zone 3, it thrives in part shade and is one of the easiest hydrangeas to grow. Note: all parts of hydrangea are toxic to dogs, cats, horses, and rabbits — not recommended for pet-accessible gardens.

Bright golden-yellow blooms light up late summer gardens, adding vibrant color as other flowers fade. This hardy, deer-resistant perennial thrives in USDA zones 3-9 and attracts valuable pollinators.

Vibrant pink and white blooms light up late summer through fall, adding fiery color to any garden from August to October. This low-maintenance perennial thrives in full sun, attracts pollinators, and is both dog- and cat-friendly (USDA zones 4-9).

Vibrant golden-yellow blooms brighten summer to fall, radiating a rich, classic rose fragrance. This hardy shrub thrives in USDA zones 5-9 and resists deer while attracting pollinators.

Delicate pale blue blooms brighten summer gardens with a charming, airy presence. This deer-resistant perennial thrives in USDA zones 3-9 and attracts abundant pollinators.

Vibrant red, hibiscus-like blooms appear from summer to fall, adding bright color to shady spots. This deer-resistant beauty thrives in USDA zones 8-11 and attracts hummingbirds.

Fragrant, maroon-purple blooms appear in spring, followed by unique tropical-flavored fruit in late summer. This low-maintenance tree thrives in USDA zones 5-8 and attracts pollinators while being deer resistant.

Tall spikes of fragrant pink and white blooms light up shady gardens from June to September, adding elegant vertical interest. This low-maintenance perennial thrives in USDA zones 4-9 and attracts pollinators while tolerating part shade.

Tufted Hair Grass forms elegant, fine-textured mounds topped with airy golden flower clouds in summer. One of the few ornamental grasses that thrives in part shade and moist conditions.

The "lazy man's grass" of the Southeast. Extremely low maintenance, thrives in poor acidic soil, and needs minimal fertilizer. Light apple-green color.

Silvery foliage contrasts beautifully with vibrant purple blooms that appear from summer to fall, adding striking color to any landscape. Drought-tolerant and deer resistant, this hardy shrub thrives in USDA zones 8-11.

Graceful, cascading lime-green blades of Japanese Forest Grass brighten shady spots with a soft, flowing texture all season long. This low-maintenance, shade-tolerant grass thrives in USDA zones 5-9 and resists deer browsing.