Monkey Flowers of various species are putting on an excellent display this month around San Diego. Look for these low, shrub-like plants with tubular yellow, orange, or red flowers wherever native vegetation clothes the landscape -- from the coastal bluffs …

April's Lowest Tides, dropping to -1.2 feet, are for early risers only: 4:49 a.m. on Sunday the 26th, and 5:38 a.m. on Monday the 27th. On Tuesday the 28th, the lowest tide of -1.0 foot occurs at the more reasonable …

The Tall Locust Trees planted years ago along Julian's narrow streets are once again brightening this backcountry (and former gold rush) town with blossoms of white, pink, and lavender. Introduced into the West by 19th-century emigrants, locust trees have become …

A dramatic occultation of the planet Venus by the waning crescent moon takes place during early morning on Wednesday, April 22. The word occult means "to hide" or "hidden" -- and that's just what the moon does to Venus by …

Star Jasmine's Sweet Perfume, exuded from clusters of small, white flowers, will continue to scent San Diego's spring breezes until sometime in June. Not a true jasmine, or Jasminum, star jasmine belongs to the genus Trachelospermum. In both public and …

The Coastal Wildflower Bloom, average or better in quality due to near-average winter rainfall, continues through April. One of the best spots for viewing the greatest variety of flowers is Torrey Pines State Reserve. San Onofre State Beach, just north …

Warmer Temperatures and increased humidity coincide with the subtle onset of San Diego's spring season. By April's end, the intermittent showers, Santa Ana winds, cold nights, and crystal-clear, sun-drenched days of winter will likely be distant memories. The nocturnal, low …