Screwbean Mesquite: Distinctive Native
Screwbean mesquite is a native mesquite that can be grown as either a large shrub or small tree. It’s easily recognized by its distinctive spiral seed pods and is one … Read more
Desert Trees
Planting a tree is the single best investment you can make in your garden. A well-placed tree provides shade, a scarce commodity in the desert, and increases the value and curb appeal of your home. They add beauty and attract wildlife life to your yard.
We are fortunate here to have a wide range of beautiful trees that happily grow in the southwest desert, both native and desert-adapted.
Here at Southwest Gardener, you’ll find in-depth information to help you choose the best trees for your desert garden and how to care for them, too.
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
TEP’s “Trees for You”: Choosing the Right Tree
If you live in Tucson, you may be able to take advantage of Tucson Electric Power’s “Trees for You” program. Here’s a look at the trees they offer to help … Read more
Chinese Elm: For Dense Shade Fast
If you’re looking to add shade to your desert garden fast, Chinese elm is one to consider. It’s a beautiful, resilient tree, but it’s not ideal for every situation. Here’s … Read more
Slim Bottlebrush: Unique Columnar Form
Slim bottlebrush has typical bottlebrush leaves and red flowers, but grows tall and narrow, making it an excellent option for small spaces. Here’s everything you need to know about planting … Read more
Willow Acacia: Demanding Tree with “Issues”
Willow acacia is a tall, pendulous tree that is not a true willow, but has many willow-like attributes. But be aware that this is a high maintenance tree that many … Read more
Velvet Mesquite: “Tree of Life”
Velvet mesquite is a Sonoran Desert native with lots of character. It’s one of the best trees for attracting and supporting wildlife, but it’s messy and has some other issues … Read more
Yellow Oleander: Tropical Fall Bloomer
Yellow oleander is a large evergreen shrub that blooms in late summer through fall when the flowers of many desert shrubs are fading after a long, hot summer. Here’s how … Read more
Orchid Tree: Deceptively Delicate
Orchid tree is a large shrub or small tree that bursts forth with either white or pink flowers in the spring. Here’s everything you need to know about growing this … Read more
Shoestring Acacia: Airy, Messy Shade Tree
Shoestring acacia is a tall, airy, pendulous tree that provides pleasing light shade. It’s relatively low-maintenance, except that it’s fairly messy. Here’s how to plant and care for this Australian … Read more
Pineapple Guava: A Beautiful Challenge
Pineapple guava is a gorgeous plant that has exotic edible flowers and, with the right care, “may” produce edible fruit. It can be grown in the desert, but it’s not … Read more
Mastic: “Clean” Evergreen Tree or Shrub
Mastic is an evergreen that can be grown as a tree or a large shrub. It is often considered one of the “cleanest” trees you can grow in the desert … Read more