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.
Candelilla is comprised of numerous delicate-looking stems, but this succulent is surprisingly sturdy. Here’s everything you need to know about planting and caring for this resilient Chihuahuan Desert native. Candelilla … Read more
Blue flame is an uncommonly attractive agave that will provide you with an endless supply of free offsets. Here’s everything you need to know about planting and caring for this … Read more
Agave blue glow is an exceptionally attractive agave that won’t outgrow its space. Here’s everything you need to know about planting and caring for this agave hybrid. Blue glow agave … Read more
Santa Rita prickly pear cactus provides year-long color with its purple pads, yellow flowers, and red fruit. Here’s everything you need to know about planting and caring for this native … Read more
Hesperaloe is an attractive, unarmed, accent plant that sports dramatic stalks of coral flowers every spring. Here’s everything you need to know about planting and caring for this low-maintenance, southwest … Read more
As the name implies, firesticks is a particularly colorful succulent that almost looks like it’s on fire. Perhaps this is a warning, since handling this plant can be dangerous. Here’s … Read more
Lady slipper is a unique upright plant with charming orange slipper-shaped flowers. It’s a chameleon that takes on different colors and forms depending on its microclimate. Here’s everything you need … Read more
Golden barrel is an iconic cactus of the desert southwest. It adds color and texture to any desert garden. Here’s everything you need to know about planting and caring for … Read more
Desert spoon is an architecturally interesting, maintenance-free plant that makes an impactful specimen. Here’s everything you need to know about planting and caring for this southwest desert native. Desert spoon … Read more
Mexican grass tree is a stunning specimen plant that will be the showpiece of your garden. And it’s as tough as it is beautiful. Here’s everything you need to know … Read more
Blue elf is a hardy, compact aloe that blooms in the winter when little else is blooming. Here’s everything you need to know about planting and caring for this carefree … Read more
Twin-flowered agave is a small, elegant agave that, compared to most agaves, is relatively “soft”. It’s also virtually maintenance-free. Here’s everything you need to know about planting and caring for … Read more