About This Database

Our Mission

The Sonoma County Plant Database is a comprehensive reference guide designed to support permaculture gardeners, native plant enthusiasts, and anyone interested in growing plants suited to our unique Mediterranean climate. This database brings together detailed information on over 800 plant species, with special emphasis on California native plants and their traditional uses.

What You'll Find Here

Each plant entry includes extensive botanical information specific to Sonoma County's USDA zones 9-10, including:

• Detailed botanical descriptions for accurate plant identification
• Growing requirements tailored to our Mediterranean climate
• Permaculture functions and ecological services each plant provides
• Wildlife value including specific pollinator relationships
• Indigenous uses by Coast Miwok, Southern Pomo, and other local tribes
• Edible and medicinal applications with safety information
• Propagation techniques and seed saving instructions
• Design considerations for permaculture gardens

Honoring Indigenous Knowledge

For California native plants, we include information about traditional Indigenous uses with deep respect for the original stewards of this land. The Coast Miwok, Southern Pomo, and other tribes of the North Bay have cultivated relationships with these plants for thousands of years. Their traditional ecological knowledge continues to inform sustainable land management practices today.

How to Use This Database

All plants are listed alphabetically by their botanical (Latin) names on the homepage. You can filter the complete list using several methods:

• Text Search: Type any part of a botanical or common name to instantly filter results
• Native Plants Filter: Show only plants native to Sonoma County
• Light Requirements: Filter by sun exposure needs
• Water Needs: Find plants suited to your irrigation capacity
• Growth Habit: Filter by plant type (tree, shrub, perennial, etc.)

All filters work together - combine multiple filters to find exactly what you're looking for. Results update instantly as you type or change selections.

A Living Resource

This database is continually updated as we gather more information, photographs, and field experience with each species. Plant images, additional growing notes, and seasonal observations are added regularly to enhance the usefulness of this resource for the Sonoma County gardening community.