Desert Bluebells: Dazzling Native Wildflower
Desert bluebell is an unmistakable, vivid blue wildflower. Once established in your garden, it will come back year after year. Here’s everything you need to know about growing and caring … Read more
Desert Flowers
There are many excellent reasons to plant flowers. They make people happy. They add splashes of color that make the garden come alive.
Flowers, especially native ones, are critical for the health of the local ecosystem. Flower nectar and seeds provide food for a wide range of local animals. They attract pollinators — birds, bees, butterflies, and other insects — that keep the chain of life going.
Here at Southwest Gardener you’ll find in-depth information to help you choose and care for flowers — both annuals and perennials — that will thrive in your desert garden.
Parry’s Penstemon: Harbinger of Spring
Parry’s penstemon is a tall, pink knockout of a wildflower that reliably blooms every spring. Here’s everything you need to know about growing and caring for this desert native. Parry’s … Read more
Firecracker Penstemon: Vibrant Nonstop Blooms
Firecracker penstemon is a perennial wildflower that has vivid orange-red blooms throughout the year. Here’s everything you need to know about growing and caring for this southwest desert native. Firecracker … Read more
Arizona Milkweed: Riparian Butterfly Magnet
Arizona milkweed is an attractive, native perennial that’s an important host plant for queen and monarch butterflies. Here’s everything you need to know about planting and taking care of this … Read more
Lantana ‘New Gold’: Abundant Summer Flowers
Lantana ‘New Gold’ is a desert-adapted ground cover that bursts with yellow-gold flowers all summer long. Here’s everything you need to know about planting and taking care of this low-maintenance … Read more