Chino Hills State Park covers over 14,000 acres and hosts communities of oak, black walnut, and even the rare Tecate Cypress. The Tecate Cypress is a relicts species from when the climate was much cooler but has survived in spotted areas in California. This population is deeply threatened because of wildfires that are happening too frequently. The Tecate Cypress uses the wildfires to reproduce but grows slowly and when the fires happen too frequently the seedlings are wiped out before they can reproduce.
Public Garden
Chino Hills State Park
Chino Hills State Park covers over 14,000 acres and hosts communities of oak, black walnut, and even the rare Tecate Cypress. The Tecate Cypress is a relicts species from when the climate was much cooler but has survived in spotted areas in California. This population is deeply threatened because of wildfires that are happening too frequently. The Tecate Cypress uses the wildfires to reproduce but grows slowly and when the fires happen too frequently the seedlings are wiped out before they can reproduce.
Garden Lessons
What this place can teach your garden
Plant for local habitat
Look for structure, seasonal texture, and plant combinations that support wildlife without needing a conventional ornamental border.
Build a sense of place
Treat the visit as a field trip: observe slopes, exposure, drainage, weeds, shade, and the plant communities around the garden.
Notes