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Wild & Romantic Northern California Outdoor Retreat

By: Chris Jacobson

Dramatic, drought-tolerant plants, native to California and the Mediterranean, cover the grounds of this ivy-swathed Atherton home. Gravel paths meander through colorful, textural groupings of swaying grasses, vibrant trees and Seussian wildflowers.

House and Romantic Garden

Photo: Caitlin Atkinson. From: Chris Jacobson

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Ivy Covered House and Romantic Garden

This drought-tolerant garden takes a romantic bent with its eclectic mix of Mediterranean and California native plants.

Cottage Garden With Gravel Path

Photo: Caitlin Atkinson. From: Chris Jacobson

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Cottage Garden With Winding Gravel Path

This enchanting garden feels so diverse and lush, it's difficult to believe that it's also drought resistant. Plantings are made up of plants native to the Mediterranean and California.

Gravel Path and House With Ivy

Photo: Caitlin Atkinson. From: Chris Jacobson

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Ivy Covered House and Gravel Path

This garden's blend of drought-resistant plants beautifully match the romantic mood of the ivy-covered house.

Garden and Red Leaved Trees

Photo: Caitlin Atkinson. From: Chris Jacobson

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Garden With Red Leaved Trees

This garden's blend of textures is magical. Its varied range of Mediterranean and California native plants include pretty grasses, Dr. Seuss-like flowers and trees with rich red leaves.

Garden With Red Trees

Photo: Caitlin Atkinson. From: Chris Jacobson

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Drought Tolerant Garden With Red Trees

Tall grasses are interspersed with low groundcover plants, all native to the Mediterranean and California regions. Striking red-leaved trees create an impressive border.

Romantic Garden and Gravel Path

Photo: Caitlin Atkinson. From: Chris Jacobson

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Drought-Tolerant Romantic Garden and Path

A light-colored gravel path curves alluringly through drought-tolerant plantings and trees with red foliage.

Cottage Garden and Wood Railings

Photo: Caitlin Atkinson. From: Chris Jacobson

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Cottage Garden With Wood Railings

Wind your way through a wide mix of drought-tolerant plants, including feathery grasses and pretty flowers, in this romantic garden.

Wood Bench in Low Water Garden

Photo: Caitlin Atkinson. From: Chris Jacobson

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Wood Bench in Drought Tolerant Garden

Part of this lovely garden's design: quiet spots to take in the beauty of the native Mediterranean and California plants.

Gravel Path and Palm Tree

Photo: Caitlin Atkinson. From: Chris Jacobson

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Gravel Path and Palm Tree

Designers used slightly different shades of gravel to differentiate the curving path from the garden beds.

Garden With Blue Planters

Photo: Caitlin Atkinson. From: Chris Jacobson

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Drought Tolerant Garden With Blue Planters

Ceramic planters provide the exciting color in this drought-tolerant garden, their electric blue popping out against the gardens soft greens and earth tones.

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