Invasive plants (i.e. weeds) have been on the upswing lately as a threat to take over desirable plants, out-compete farm crops, and disturb the fragile health of ecosystems.

Teri Silver / lawnlove.com San Diego is known for beautiful scenery, a stunning coastline, and professional sports teams, but "America's Finest City" has its share of attractive native plants, too.

Gardeners should keep an eye out for these new tropicals and shrubs, like mangaves, 'Gold Leopard' canna lilies and edible roses.