Screwbean Mesquite: Distinctive Native
Screwbean mesquite is a native mesquite that can be grown as either a large shrub or small tree. It’s easily recognized by its distinctive spiral seed pods and is one … Read more
Desert Shrubs
Shrub is an informal rather than a scientific classification but I like this definition, “If you can walk under it, it’s a tree. If you have to walk around it, it’s a shrub.”
Shrubs form the backbone of any garden. They provide architectural interest and color. You can use them to block views, form a living fence, or attract wildlife.
We are fortunate here to have a tremendous variety of beautiful shrubs that happily grow in hot dry gardens of the desert southwest.
Here at Southwest Gardener, you’ll find in-depth information to help you choose and care for the best shrubs for your desert garden.
The Best Hummingbird Plants for Desert Gardens
Looking to entice more hummingbirds into your desert garden? Turn your yard into a “hummer haven” by planting flowering shrubs, perennials, vines, trees, and succulents that our beloved feathered friends … Read more
Little Ollie: Fruitless Dwarf Olive
‘Little Ollie’ is an attractive evergreen shrub that has silvery-green leaves but no flowers or olives, making it non-allergenic and nearly litter-free. Here’s everything you need to know about planting … Read more
Bee Brush: Aromatic Pollinator Magnet
Bee brush is a lacy shrub with aromatic flowers that smell like vanilla and attract bees and butterflies like crazy. Here’s everything you need to know about growing this Chihuahuan … Read more
Slim Bottlebrush: Unique Columnar Form
Slim bottlebrush has typical bottlebrush leaves and red flowers, but grows tall and narrow, making it an excellent option for small spaces. Here’s everything you need to know about planting … Read more
Trailing Indigo Bush: Tough Desert Ground Cover
Trailing indigo bush may look delicate, but is considered one of the toughest ground covers you can grow in desert landscapes. Here’s everything you need to know about this Chihuahuan … Read more
Yellow Oleander: Tropical Fall Bloomer
Yellow oleander is a large evergreen shrub that blooms in late summer through fall when the flowers of many desert shrubs are fading after a long, hot summer. Here’s how … Read more
Orchid Tree: Deceptively Delicate
Orchid tree is a large shrub or small tree that bursts forth with either white or pink flowers in the spring. Here’s everything you need to know about growing this … Read more
Black Dalea: Dainty, But Resilient
Black dalea is an airy, delicate-looking shrub that is much tougher than it looks. It’s actually a resilient landscape plant that thrives on neglect. Here’s everything you need to know … Read more
Desert Lavender: A Great Native Alternative
Lavender is a widely beloved perennial that can be challenging to grow in the desert. If you miss the fragrance of fresh lavender, consider growing desert lavender instead. Here’s how … Read more
Trailing Rosemary: Twist on an Ancient Herb
Trailing rosemary is an aromatic, evergreen ground cover with delicate blue flowers from winter through spring. It’s a prostrate form of the “usual” rosemary, a culinary and healing herb native … Read more
Winter Blaze Emu Bush: Year Round Color
‘Winter blaze’ is a bit of a misnomer for this lovely emu bush, since it blooms much of the year, not just in winter. Here’s how to plant and care … Read more