Coastal Resilience
We are planting California Box Thorn on January 10th! This is a native plant that helps restore and protect our coastline.
An ecosystem approach to cliff resilience
This project has been in the works for months and has been discussed with representation from the Parks & Recreation Department.
Box Thorn is found along the length of Sunset Cliff’s Natural Park, primarily along the tops of the cliffs.
Curious why we chose this plant?
Discover what makes the California Box Thorn special
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Deep roots, strong cliffs
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Native resilience
Box Thorn (Lycium californicum) protects the fragile cliff edges.
Its deep root system helps stabilize coastal bluffs and prevent soil erosion, protecting our cliffs from the forces of wind and water.
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City approved native
It’s the only native plant the City’s Resilience Project recommends for this.
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Cliffside heritage
They’ve thrived on our cliffs forever.
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Access friendly
They won’t block pedestrian access at any point.
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Water-wise
They require no summer watering after their first year.
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Supported by volunteers
Friends of Sunset Cliffs will maintain them until established.
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Natural protection
Their little thorns discourage sitting on dangerous, fragile cliff edges and protect the birds that eat their little berries.
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Seasonally responsive
Their lovely, tiny green leaves appear with the first light rain.
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Subtle beauty
They'll never grow big enough to block your view of the ocean, and they’ll beautify the length of this park.
Get Involved
Join us in making a real difference for our cliffs. Whether you want to volunteer for a planting day, donate to support our efforts, or simply spread the word, every action counts.