Plant species in the landscape consist of a combination of California native and drought tolerant, adaptive species.  The appropriate species and placement of plants leads to a planting design that is beautiful, functional, and able to be maintained to keep a consistent neat and tidy appearance.  There are four types of planting types in the Rio Retail landscape: stormwater detention swales; perimeter planting and streetscape; parking Islands; and areas surrounding pedestrian seating spaces.

Stormwater detention swales are designed according to the depth zone of the swale.  The lowest zone of planting includes river rock and a native rush species which are able to tolerate wet and dry conditions of the swale. The upper slopes of the swale contain fescue grasses and other native plants.  Upper conditions of the swales include some taller non-native grasses to add depth and interest, yet keep the site visible. Due to the nature of planting in the swale, it will be easy to visibly inspect the working function of the swales.

Perimeter planting and streetscape planting, which may also include stormwater detention swales, contain plants with color and texture.  Plant height either maintains visibility into the site or softens the blank walls of buildings.  Plants are a welcoming entry feature to the site, also complimenting entry signage. 

Planting in parking islands is minimal, as maintaining the function of these areas is important as there is constant use by people, cars, and grocery carts.  Where there is suitable space, trees are planted in wells.

Providing comfortable and beautiful seating spaces is important to the retail site.  Adding a more colorful plant palette in these areas is important.  Retail spaces will be encouraged to add planters near the store entries to enhance this experience.

Landscape irrigation is designed to use 100% non-potable water and will be distributed through a water efficient, subsurface irrigation system.  It is supplied mainly from a rainwater harvesting system which collects roof runoff from the main commercial building roof to a cistern.  Make-up water for the cistern is be added from the well water available on site.  With the use of non-potable water coupled with the use of native and drought tolerant species, the Rio Road landscape is a demonstration of a well- designed, sustainable landscape.