Mediterranean Climate Garden
Year-round interest
California is defined by a Mediterranean climate; cool, moist winters and warm, dry summers. This climate type is found in only five regions of the world — California, the Mediterranean Basin of Europe, South Africa, Chile, and small areas of Australia — all lying between 30° and 35° latitude on the west coasts of continents.
The Mediterranean Climate Garden at MCBG showcases plants from all of these regions except Chile. Native to lands where summer drought can last for months, these plants have evolved remarkable adaptations for survival. Many display silvery or leathery leaves, or foliage held vertically to reduce sun exposure. Others persist as annuals, springing to life only in the wet season, while some species have adapted to fire.
Together, these plants demonstrate the beauty and resilience of Mediterranean flora and highlight their value as ideal candidates for drought-tolerant landscaping.
