Spend less time stressing, and more time enjoying your garden.

Let’s be honest—between long commutes, weekend errands, and coastal heat waves, most of us in the South Bay don’t have hours to dedicate to garden upkeep. But that doesn’t mean you have to settle for a dull, lifeless yard. In fact, plenty of stunning plants thrive in Torrance’s Mediterranean climate with minimal fuss.

Here are our top five low-maintenance picks that will keep your garden thriving while your schedule stays packed.

1. Coral Fountain (Russelia equisetiformis)

Why it works:
With arching, fountain-like stems and bright red tubular blooms, Coral Fountain brings motion and color to your garden nearly all year. It’s tough, heat-tolerant, and a magnet for hummingbirds.

Best use:
Draping over retaining walls, in hanging containers, or along dry borders.

Pro tip:
Plant where it can spill naturally and prune back in late winter to refresh growth.

2. Agave (Agave spp.)

Why it works:
Agaves are sculptural succulents that demand almost nothing. Once established, they thrive in dry, sunny spots and require virtually no watering or fertilizing.

Best use:
Focal points in dry gardens, raised beds, or rock landscapes.

Pro tip:
Choose slow-growing varieties for tight spaces and always plant in well-draining soil.

3. Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)

Why it works:
This Mediterranean herb pulls double duty: it’s an edible, aromatic powerhouse and a hardy evergreen shrub. It handles drought, poor soil, and heat like a champ.

Best use:
Borders, hedges, or herb gardens.

Pro tip:
Use creeping varieties to spill over edges or upright types for structural form—either way, prune after flowering to maintain shape.

4. Lavender (Lavandula spp.)

Why it works:
Few plants match lavender for fragrance, pollinator appeal, and drought tolerance. Once established, it requires minimal water and just a bit of seasonal trimming.

Best use:
Mass plantings, pathways, or mixed with other Mediterranean plants.

Pro tip:
Don’t overwater. Use sandy, well-draining soil and prune yearly to avoid legginess.

5. Lantana (Lantana camara)

Why it works:
Bursting with clusters of vivid flowers, Lantana thrives in hot, dry conditions. It’s deer-resistant, salt-tolerant, and blooms from spring to frost with almost no care.

Best use:
Ground cover, slopes, containers, or pollinator gardens.

Pro tip:
Give it space—it can spread fast. Trim back in early spring to control growth and encourage fresh blooms.

Final Thoughts

Low-maintenance doesn’t mean low beauty. With just a little planning, you can create a lush, vibrant garden that thrives on autopilot—perfect for life in Torrance’s Zone 10b.

Swing by Sunflower Farms  to check out these plants in person, and chat with our staff about what will work best for your specific space. We’re here to help your garden grow—even if your free time doesn’t.