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There are no fire-resistant plants since all plants can burn. But there are aspects to consider when selecting plants to include in your fire-smart landscape. Plant spacing, size, and maintenance are important considerations.
Consider:
- Plants that have a higher moisture content, lower resin or sap content, and less volatile oils.
- Low-growing plants and plants that don’t produce excessive amounts of dry, combustible vegetation that can act as fuel for fires.
- California native plants that are well adapted to your climate and ecosystem which will be more likely to thrive without excessive watering and maintenance, reducing fire risk.
- Horizontal and vertical spacing between plants and hardscape features that separate plant groupings to break up the path of fire.
Avoid plants that:
- Tend to build up dead thatch inside or under a green surface layer.
- Produce and shed excessive dead, dry, or fine debris.
- Create fire ladders such as vines or shrubs that grow beneath trees and create vertical pathways for fire to climb.
- Are Invasive.