We tested the hypothesis that field applications of arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) inocula would increase root colonization and plant performance in a coastal sage scrub (CSS) restoration project in Southern California. We applied commercial or native inocula (from nearby reference shrublands) as we seeded plots with native shrubs, forbs, and grasses. A control treatment was seeded but received no inocula. After 6 months, AM root colonization did not differ significantly among treatments.