Aloe Vera: Ubiquitous & Useful
When you hear “aloe vera”, you may think of a healing gel for burns or a popular houseplant… and it is those things. But it also makes an easy-care, prolific … 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.
Boojum: Improbable, Upside Down “Tree”
Boojum tree is every bit as weird as its name implies. Here’s what you need to know to decide whether this desert native would be a good choice for your … Read more
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
Queen of the Night: Elusive Flowering Cactus
Queen of the night is an elusive cactus that’s rarely seen in the wild. But it’s widely regarded for its nocturnal flowers that simultaneously bloom once per year. While you … Read more
‘Color Guard’: Bright, Variegated Yucca
‘Color Guard’ is a medium size yucca cultivar that makes an exceptionally attractive accent plant. It’s showy striped leaves brighten any spot in desert gardens. Here’s everything you need to … Read more
Saguaro: Sentinel of the Sonoran Desert
Saguaro is a spectacular columnar cactus that can make a real statement in desert gardens. However, a saguaro can be a major investment, and they are not ideal for every … Read more
Eve’s Needle: Deceptively Dangerous
Eve’s needle is an unusual desert plant that at first glance looks more like a succulent than a cactus. It has glossy green segments and prominent leaves. It also has … Read more
Quadricolor Century Plant: Multicolor Agave
Quadricolor century plant is a stunning, multicolor agave that stands out in desert gardens. It stays compact but produces an endless supply of offsets. Here’s everything you need to know … Read more
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
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