Life in Idyllwild

Pipestem Clematis or Chaparral Clematis,(Clematis lasiantha), is one of the two native clematis in California (the other being C. ligusticifolia or Western Virgin’s Bower). Pipestem clematis is a beautiful deciduous vine that can be as long as 20 feet. This native vine can be found growing on hillsides, chaparral, and open woodlands in southern and central California. It blooms April to May, displaying many small, creamy white and fragrant flowers. This vine prefers shade for its roots, and sun for its top, and is completely drought-tolerant when established.

Here you’ll find inns, cabins and B&Bs with fireplaces that set the romantic mood or others with family accommodations for the kids and even for your pet. Great dining does not stop here — choose from a handmade pizza or hamburger and beer, or go for a elegant wine and steak or pasta dinner by candlelight.

California Brickelbush (Brickellia californica) is a native shrub and may be one of the best and sweetest smelling plants. From a great distance, you will be drawn by the irresistible, powerful perfume. The wonderful fragrance lasts for almost two weeks and it’s one of those mysterious plant scents that can be smelled only at a distance.

This bobcat walked past the window of a Mountain Center home. “Made my day,” said Bethany Pulliam.

Comarostaphylis diversifolia is a species of shrub in the heath family known by the common name “Summer holly.” Native to Southern California and Northern Baja California’s coastal chaparral habitat, it grows slowly to 12 inches tall and 8 feet wide or slightly larger.