Fire-Smart Plants

Choosing Landscaping Plants in a Fire Prone Environment

• Use this list as a reference for preferred plants suitable for Marin's climate and soils.
• These plants tend to share characteristics of plants that are preferred in a fire-prone environment.
• There are no “fire-proof” plants!  All plants must be maintained in good health, properly irrigated, and free of dead material, dry twigs, or fallen leaves and needles.
• Maintenance is the most important factor when maintaining landscaping plants in a fire-prone environment.
• Choose natives and/or pollinator friendly plants where appropriate.
• Choose hedge plants that share these chartacteristics for screening.
• Plant hardwood trees from this list that are less likely to ignite than conifers like pine or cypress.
• Be aware of the potential for leaf and needle litter in the fall.
• Use proper spacing between plants to slow the spread of fire.  More space is required on slopes.