The majority of California Native Plants do best when planted when we have cooler weather, and hopefully, winter rains. This planting time allows plants to get acclimated to their new location and to get established before hot summer temperatures. Watch the Santa Clara Master Gardeners' Selecting & Planting California Natives video and consider visiting some of the Santa Clara Master Gardener Demonstration Gardens for ideas. 

See also this information from the California Native Plant Society.