California has one of the most diverse floras on earth. A wealth of distinct habitats, varied soils, and microclimates, in combination with millions of years of semi-isolation by the Pacific Ocean to the west and the rugged mountains and desert to the east, have produced an estimated 5,000 native species and 1,000 introduced species. In addition, nutrient-rich ocean currents along the coast support a diverse marine flora of about 670 species.

To learn more about the diverse plant communities of California's coast, click on the areas below.

General Information

Marine Algae

Coastal Strand

Coastal Grasses

Coastal Scrub

Salt Marsh

Freshwater Marsh

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