ENST 405

Queen's Court: Reconnect and Revitalize

Queen's Court Native Planting Site

an invitation to reconnect with nature, revitalize the mind, and foster a healthier, happier USC community

Project Mission

Nestled within the vibrant landscape of USC lies a hidden gem - an oasis brimming with lush greenery, serene pathways, and secluded seating. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, this native planting site offers more than meets the eye. It serves as a haven for mental health and well-being by promoting mindfulness. Come and join us!

California Native Plant Species in Queen's Court

small plant with many small, round leaves

Blue Blossom

Ceanothus Thyrsiflorus

This evergreen plant blooms in the spring or winter. Its flowers are important for bees and butterflies and its seed pods are an important food source for birds and small mammals.

plant with long skinny stems and round petaled orange flowers

California Poppy

Eschscholzia Californica

*Tongva translation: Mekachaa

*The Tongva people traditionally use various parts of the plant for medicinal purposes, such as cures for stomach aches, toothaches, headaches, and sore throats.

plant with long thin stems and bright scarlet trumpet-shaped flowers

California Fuchsia

Cercis Occidentalis

Also known as the "hummingbird trumpet," this plant attracts hummingbirds thanks to its high sugar content.

plant with many long narrow stems and light, small, narrow shaped leaves

California Sagebrush

Artemisia Californica

Used for poultices, asthma relief, and decoctions addressing diverse issues like menstrual problems, childbirth, menopausal symptoms, and newborn care.

bush-like plant with many lance-shaped leaves and small black and red berries

Eve Case Coffeeberry

Frangula Californica

Serves as a vital habitat and food source for wildlife, offering berries crucial for avian survival during lean periods. Its robust root system prevents soil erosion, stabilizes slopes, and contributes to watershed health. It also plays a key role in restoration projects, fostering biodiversity, and a balanced ecosystem.

*Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) Resources:

Our team recognizes the value of integrating traditional ecological knowledge of the ancestral stewards of the land on which the Queen's Court native planting site is located. Through integrating cultural knowledge, we would like to disclaim that not all of our information is directly from Tongva-specific resources. Our goal is to honor traditional knowledge, so we are open and willing to correct any information regarding TEK.

Avian and Insect Biodiversity in Queen's Court

white butterfly with a single dark spot on top wing

Cabbage White Butterfly

Cabbage butterflies contribute to the ecological balance of Queen's Court by supporting pollination for plant reproduction and nutrient cycling while also serving as a food source for other organisms.

small brown hummingbird with some red near the breast

Rufous Hummingbird

Rufous Hummingbirds are vital to this ecosystem, serving as pollinators, they are drawn to the Hummingbird Trumpets at this site. They are easily spotted with their coppery-orange plumage on their backs and sides, with a greenish or bronze tone on the crown and throat.

The Sustainability Superstars

Meet the team that led this project!

Gi Alcala (they/them)

Cheska Pangilinan (she/her)

Paris Valdez (she/her)

Nour Yaish (she/her)

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