Echinacea (coneflower) is a beautiful native perennial that supports pollinators and has medicinal uses.
Zone 10A has a very long growing season with mild winters. Many crops can be grown nearly year-round with successive plantings.
Good companions: black-eyed Susans, grasses, lavender, bee balm
Avoid planting near: none — echinacea is a great garden citizen
Blooms first year from transplant, second from seed; leave some for wildlife
USDA Hardiness Zone 10A has an average last spring frost around Feb 1 and first fall frost around Dec 20. All planting dates above are calculated from these frost dates. Your specific location may vary — check with your local extension office for the most accurate dates.