Layia flowers
UC EcoRestore

Species Selection

EcoRestore | Plant search tools

Species selection is an integral component of every active restoration project. Build your planting palette based on a thorough site assessment, including soils, climate, disturbance history, resource availability, and any remnant native vegetation. When possible, use nearby undisturbed reference sites or historical records as a guide. Species selection should also be informed by specific project goals. Choosing locally native species that are well suited to site conditions is critical for long‑term success. There is a growing suite of online tools to aid land managers in matching genetically and ecologically appropriate plant species and populations to specific restoration sites.

 UC Ecorestore plant search tool coming to this page Fall 2025!