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 natural ranges that include the Sonoran, Mojave, and/or Chihuahuan Deserts, or that are native to states of the southwest. (We’ve also included a few hybrids or cultivars of native plants, to give you the most options.)
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 that 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 Sonoran 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
Artichoke agave is a beautifully symmetrical, distinctive-looking agave that is shaped like an artichoke. Here’s everything you need to know about planting and taking care of this Mexican native. Artichoke … Read more
‘Heavenly Cloud‘ is an extremely hardy desert shrub with show-stopping lavender flowers. Here’s everything you need to know about planting and caring for this Texas ranger hybrid. ‘Heavenly Cloud’ (Leucophyllum … Read more
If you miss seeing true green in the desert landscape, consider planting a hop bush (or two). This fast-growing, versatile shrub stays vibrant emerald green all year long. Here’s everything … Read more
Globe mallow is a super-resilient shrub that comes in a rainbow assortment of colors. Here’s everything you need to know about planting and caring for this southwest desert native. Globe … Read more
Fairy duster is a lacy, semi-evergreen shrub that bursts into bloom with an explosion of dainty pink flowers. It’s hard to believe a shrub this delicate-looking is actually native to … Read more
Desert milkweed is an attractive, succulent-looking native perennial that’s an important host plant for butterflies. Here’s everything you need to know about planting and taking care of this southwest desert … Read more
Desert bluebell is an unmistakable, vivid blue wildflower. Once established in your garden, this eye-catching annual will come back year after year. Here’s everything you need to know about growing … Read more
Parry’s penstemon is a tall, pink knockout of a wildflower that reliably blooms every spring. Here’s everything you need to know about growing and caring for this gorgeous Sonoran Desert … Read more