Good morning, and welcome to the Essential California newsletter. Here’s what you need to know to start your weekend: The rain has subsided and it’s finally time to visit colorful wildflower displays ...

Editor’s note: This week we begin a new series by long-time Napa resident, Dr. Richards P. Lyon, a retired urologist, pioneer in pediatric urology , author and photographer. Each week Dr. Lyon will be ...

Monkey-flowers of various species are putting on an excellent display this month around San Diego. Look for these low, shrublike plants with their tubular flowers wherever native vegetation clothes ...