Indian Fig: Impressive, “Spineless” Cactus
With its large pads, tree-like form, and flowers and fruits in a rainbow of colors, Indian fig provides year-long interest (and edible fruit) in desert gardens. Here’s everything you need … Read more
Desert Succulents
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.
Cape Aloe: Otherwordly Tree Aloe
If you’re looking for a large, dramatic succulent that also adds color to your garden, check out Cape aloe. This unusual aloe grows tall and puts out branched candelabras of … Read more
Weber’s Agave: Bold & Beautiful
Weber’s agave makes a bold and beautiful accent plant, but it’s definitely not right for every garden due to its massive size and propensity for forming colonies. Here’s everything you … Read more
Rocky Point Ice Plant: Sparkly Ground Cover
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: Unusual & Elegant
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
23 Desert Plants for Winter Color
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 Cactus: Colorful Stunner
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: Impressive Accent Plant
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
Century Plant: Popular Giant Agave
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
Agave or Aloe? How to Tell the Difference
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
Bunny Ears Cactus: Cute But Not Cuddly
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: Exquisite Accent Plant
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