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.
Texas mountain laurel is a unique evergreen tree with wisteria-like flowers that smell like grape soda. Here’s how to plant and care for this Chihuahuan Desert native. Texas mountain laurel … Read more
Autumn sage is a delightful, compact evergreen shrub with red flowers that bloom most of the year. Here’s everything you need to know about planting and taking care of this … Read more
The toughest spot for growing plants in a desert garden is near a heat-reflecting wall. Here are 16 shrubs that not only thrive in reflected heat but reward you with … Read more
Yellow bells is an eye-catching desert shrub that looks like it belongs in the tropics, but is actually a southwest desert native. Here’s everything you need to know about planting … Read more
Cape honeysuckle is a colorful, sprawling plant that can easily be grown as either a shrub or a vine depending on how it’s pruned. Here’s everything you need to know … Read more
Little leaf cordia is an extremely hardy, sprawling shrub that’s adorned with snow-white flowers spring through fall. Here’s everything you need to know about planting and caring for this desert … Read more
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 an … Read more
There are so many popular desert landscape plants that go by the common name “bird of paradise” — it can be confusing! Learn the difference between the various birds of … 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 hybrid. ‘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 cultivar that hails from New … 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