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.
Oleander is a popular landscape shrub in the desert southwest. It has many desirable features, but are they enough to offset this plant’s serious drawbacks? Oleander (Nerium oleander) is a … Read more
There are several popular desert landscape plants that go by the common name “bird of paradise.” It can be confusing! Learn the difference between red, yellow, Phoenix, and Mexican birds … Read more
‘Heavenly Cloud‘ is an extremely hardy desert shrub with show-stopping lavender flowers. Here’s everything you need to know about planting and caring for this Texas ranger cultivar. ‘Heavenly Cloud’ (Leucophyllum … Read more
Yellow bird of paradise is a resilient, fast growing shrub festooned with clusters of yellow flowers. Here’s everything you need to know about planting and caring for this South American … Read more
Purple hop bush is a large, attractive, evergreen shrub with unique, colorful foliage. Here’s everything you need to know about planting and caring for this desert-adapted shrub that hails from … Read more
If you miss seeing true green in the desert landscape, consider planting a hop bush (or two). This fast-growing, versatile shrub stays vibrant emerald green all year long, Here’s everything … Read more
Dwarf bottlebrush or little John bottlebrush is an exceptionally beautiful small shrub that requires very little from its owner. Here’s everything you need to know about planting and taking care … Read more
Blue plumbago or blue cape leadwort is a delightful sprawling shrub that’s covered with sky-blue phlox-like flowers much of the year. Here’s how to grow and care for this African … Read more
White plumbago is a cascading shrub adorned with pure white flowers that seem to glow at dusk. It’s a cultivar of the more common blue plumbago. Here’s everything you need … Read more
Globe mallow is a super-resilient shrub that comes in a rainbow assortment of colors. Here’s everything you need to know about planting and caring for this southwest desert native. Globe … Read more
Red bird of paradise is a large exotic-looking shrub with dramatic, vibrant flowers that have a tropical feel, but thrives in the desert. Here’s everything you need to know about … Read more
Fairy duster is an attractive evergreen shrub with delightful pink flowers. Here’s everything you need to know about planting and caring for this Sonoran Desert native. Fairy duster or pink … Read more