Calscape.org has absolutely the best and most complete planting advice for planting California natives. Consider your location, rainfall, sun, humidity and soil type to maximize your success in planting your native plants.
The website above has some interesting information on how deep rooted plants tap into deep ground water to provide moisture to shallower, smaller plants. It also describes the importance of
mycorrhiza in the health of your native plants. Excess water can kill the mycorrhiza and lead to the death of your California native plants.
