Netleaf Hackberry: Rugged Native Tree
Netleaf hackberry is a tremendous tree in many ways. It supports bees, birds, and butterflies and becomes extremely drought tolerant with age. But it’s not right for every situation. Here’s … Read more
Native Plants
Native plants offer many benefits. Since they evolved to grow in harsh desert conditions, they usually perform better with less care and are friendlier to wildlife. Plants included here have native ranges within the Southwest desert bioregion which includes the Sonoran, Mojave, and/or Chihuahuan Deserts. (We’ve also included a few hybrids or cultivars of native plants, to give you the most options.)
Whale’s Tongue: Silver, Solitary Agave
Whale’s tongue is a bold agave with thick, silver leaves that make an eye-catching focal point in desert gardens. It’s desert tough and largely impervious to desert heat, drought, and … Read more
Goldenball Leadtree: Puffball Flowers
Goldenball leadtree is a small deciduous tree with bright green foliage and golden yellow puffball flowers. It may look like it belongs in the tropics, but it’s a tough Chihuahuan … Read more
Desert Hackberry: For Birds & Butterflies
If you’re looking for a shrub to attract and support birds and butterflies, you won’t find a better plant than desert hackberry. Here’s everything you need to know about growing … Read more
Mangave: Highly Prized Agave Hybrid
Looking for something out of the ordinary? Look no further than mangaves. These unique, whimsical agave hybrids are prized for their unusual leaves that come in an amazing array of … Read more
Mexican Flame Vine: Butterfly Lure
Mexican flame vine is a beautiful, perennial vine with vivid orange flowers that butterflies can’t resist. Unlike many desert vines, it stays a manageable size. Here’s how to plant and … Read more
Fishhook Barrel Cactus: Monsoon Bloomer
Fishhook barrel is a rugged cactus that looks rather nondescript until it blooms during the monsoon, when it adds a surprising touch of vivid color when many other desert plants … Read more
Desert Zinnia: Not Your Usual Zinnia
Desert zinnia is a wonderful wildflower for hot, dry gardens. It blooms intermittently throughout the year and requires virtually no maintenance. Here’s how to grow and care for this native … Read more
Organ Pipe Cactus: Impressive Giant
Organ pipe cactus is an impressive columnar cactus that grows in large clusters and can make a real statement in the right spot. But due to its large ultimate size … Read more
‘Orange Jubilee’: Festive Yellow Bells Hybrid
‘Orange Jubilee’ is a large shrub with clusters of orange trumpet-shaped flowers that’s as festive as its name implies. Here’s everything you need to know about planting and caring for … Read more
Desert Willow: Delightful Native Tree
Desert willow is a delightful, drought-tolerant ornamental tree with pink orchid-like flowers that attract bees and hummingbirds. Here’s everything you need to know about planting and caring for this native … Read more
Mexican Hat: Whimsical, Resilient Perennial
Mexican hat is a whimsical perennial with flowers that look like small sombreros. It’s native to much of North America, including much colder climes, but is resilient enough to thrive … Read more