Succulents are an amazing group of plants that draw many of us to the American southwest. It is a broad term that includes cactus, agaves, yuccas, and other plants that store water for when times are dry.
We are fortunate here in the desert southwest to be able to grow a great variety of succulents in our yards, while much of the world can only grow them as potted plants or houseplant pots.
Here at Southwest Gardener, you’ll find in-depth information to help you choose and care for the best succulents for your desert garden.
Rocky Point ice plant is a succulent, evergreen ground cover. When in bloom, it’s dotted with shimmery, daisy-like flowers. Here’s everything you need to know about growing this delightful South … Read more
Foxtail agave is an elegant agave with curved flower stalks that resemble fox tails. When in bloom, it’s an otherworldly sight to behold. Here’s everything you need to know about … Read more
Looking to add color to your desert garden that extends into winter? Look no further than these plants that have either colorful flowers or leaves in the winter. You’ll find … Read more
Peruvian apple is a spectacular columnar cactus with gorgeous flowers and attractive, edible fruit. But be aware that it’s not as tolerant of desert conditions as cactus native to the … Read more
Banana yucca is a succulent that makes a bold accent plant in any garden. When in bloom, it has showy, yet delicately colored flowers. Here’s everything you need to know … Read more
If you’re looking for an imposing specimen plant that is too big to be ignored, century plant fits the bill. Century plant is the most popular landscape agave, but it’s … Read more
Many desert plants grow in symmetric rosettes and have spiky leaves. Have you ever looked at a plant and wondered, “Is that an agave? Or is it an aloe?” Discover … Read more
With a name like “bunny ears” and its polka dot appearance, this cactus looks relatively harmless, but is deceptively hazardous. Here’s everything you need to know about this native Mexican … Read more
Queen Victoria agave is widely considered one of the most attractive agaves — one that’s truly “fit for a queen”. Here’s everything you need to know about planting and taking … Read more
Parry’s agave is a beautifully symmetrical agave with silver leaves that make it an eye-catching landscape plant. (But beware of the wicked thorns!) Here’s everything you need to know about … Read more
With blue-green leaves lined with distinctive red margins, aloe ‘Diablo’ is an eye-catcher. ‘Diablo’ means devil, but this plant is friendlier than it sounds, since the “teeth” are fleshy rather … Read more
Many succulents grow symmetrically, but Moroccan mound stands out as one of the most perfectly symmetric succulents you’ll ever grow. (But beware of its particularly noxious sap.) Here’s everything you … Read more