What Landscape is California? – A Historical and Cultural Perspective

Wilzave Quiles Guzmán
May 14
2 min read

When asking, "What landscape is California?" it helps to understand the state through a historical and cultural lens. California’s landscape has evolved with the influence of Indigenous communities, Spanish settlers, the Gold Rush, Hollywood, and environmental movements. For property owners in Los Angeles, the Palisades, and throughout Southern California, incorporating cultural storytelling into your landscape design can create meaningful, timeless outdoor spaces.

Indigenous Influence on California Landscape

Long before modern development, Indigenous tribes such as the Tongva, Chumash, and Cahuilla stewarded the land sustainably. They used native plants like toyon, elderberry, and yucca for food, shelter, and ceremony. These traditions reflect an intimate connection to the local environment.

Landscaping takeaway: Embrace native, multifunctional plants to echo traditional ecological knowledge. Use natural materials and avoid over-irrigation for a culturally respectful, drought-tolerant garden.

Spanish and Mediterranean Legacy in Landscape Design

The Spanish colonial period introduced adobe architecture, tile work, and courtyard gardens featuring lavender, rosemary, and olive trees. This Mediterranean influence shaped the early aesthetics of Southern California homes and continues to inspire modern garden styles.

Landscaping takeaway: Use Mediterranean design elements like terracotta pots, stucco walls, and formal pathways to reflect this historical legacy and improve curb appeal.

20th-Century Icons and California Landscaping Trends

Hollywood and mid-century modern design brought glamour and innovation to California’s outdoor spaces. Think pools, palm trees, fire features, and geometric garden beds. These elements became symbols of the quintessential California lifestyle.

Landscaping takeaway: Install minimalist concrete paths, sleek outdoor furniture, and statement plants like birds of paradise or giant agaves to achieve an iconic, low-maintenance California look.

Environmental Movements and Sustainable Landscaping

From the 1960s onward, Californians led the way in eco-friendly landscaping practices, focusing on water conservation, native plant restoration, and wildfire resilience. This era helped redefine the modern California landscape as sustainable and environmentally responsible.

Landscaping takeaway: Design landscapes with smart irrigation systems, mulch, and habitat-friendly features like pollinator gardens or bioswales to conserve water and support biodiversity.

Tips for Incorporating Cultural Layers in Landscape Design

Combine native and Mediterranean plants to honor both ecology and history.
Use reclaimed or local materials for eco-conscious hardscaping.
Add interpretive elements like signs, sculptures, or mosaics reflecting California’s heritage and identity.

Work with us

Banuelos Landscaping brings cultural awareness and local expertise to each project. We help homeowners in Los Angeles and the Palisades design landscapes that reflect California's rich story through thoughtful plant choices and design strategies.