California Paints announced its 2026 Color of the Year, Cactus Valley (0752), describing the verdant hue as a symbol of balance, renewal and a connection to the natural world. The company positioned the color within a grounded, nature-centric direction for 2026, citing its ability to create environments that feel balanced and timeless with a strong link to the outdoors. “Consumers have consistently and increasingly expressed a desire to bring the spirit of the outdoors into their interiors, and California Paints’ Cactus Valley is an ideal way to realize earth-centric aesthetics within any home,” said Dani Doerge, marketing manager, California Paints.

Credit: iStock-1192448423/Artjafara

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California Paints released a coordinating palette designed to bring balance and versatility. The company said pairing with rich teals and deep mauves can add depth and sophistication while soft creams and muted light yellows introduce warmth and subtle brightness. Gentle, powdery blues add a calming touch, creating a range of colors that can be used together or alone. Suggested companions include Ranch House (0142), Garden Country (0279), Midnight Magic (0508), Cold North (0688), Cave Painting (0147), Deep Lagoon (0507), Abra Cadabra (0080), Apple Sauce (0866) and Glistening (0813).

California Paints recommended using Cactus Valley as a main wall color in living and dining spaces to create a calming, nature-inspired backdrop or as an accent in kitchens and entryways for an earthy note. The company said the color can be used with earthy browns or muted pinks to highlight its organic character or combined with deeper shades for layered designs. Accents of light yellows or soft aquas can bring balance and vibrancy. California Paints is part of ICP Group, a North American chemical and coatings manufacturer.

See the full collection here. 

For residential color trends and palettes, see our Architectural Coatings topic page.