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.)
Sideoats grama is an underused ornamental grass that makes a graceful, understated landscape plant. It’s extremely low-maintenance and attracts birds and butterflies. Here’s how to grow this native North American … Read more
Goodding’s verbena is a perennial ground cover found primarily in Arizona, but it grows across much of the southwest. It has charming lavender flowers and is tougher than it looks. … Read more
Desert broom is a controversial plant that people love to hate. It’s often mistakenly accused of being invasive and causing allergies. Discover the crucial roles this southwest native plays in … Read more
Big muhly is an aptly named ornamental grass. This dramatic member of the muhly grasses can make a big statement in desert landscapes. Here’s how to grow and care for … Read more
Chocolate flower is an evergreen perennial that has fragrant yellow flowers that smell like chocolate. Here’s how to grow and care for this southwest native wildflower. Chocolate flower (Berlandiera lyrata) … Read more
Mexican honeysuckle is a popular desert shrub that, unfortunately, often struggles to look its best. Here’s how to find the perfect “Goldilocks Zone” for this colorful hummingbird magnet. In spite … Read more
‘Leslie Roy’ is a fast-growing mesquite hybrid that offers several improvements over the two parent trees, including being thornless and producing very few seed pods. Here’s everything you need to … Read more
Clusters of vibrant pink flowers and bright green heart-shaped leaves make queen’s wreath vine a show-stopper, especially when in full bloom. Here’s how to plant and care for this Sonoran … Read more
Brittlebush is an iconic desert shrub that’s practically foolproof, even in the most difficult spots in the garden, yet is rarely used as a landscape plant. Here’s everything you need … Read more
Totem pole cactus is a one-of-a-kind cactus that can make a real statement in desert gardens. Unlike other columnar cactus, it has lumps and knobs instead of thorns! Here’s how … Read more
Coral fountain is an aptly named cascading perennial that’s truly sensational when in full bloom. It looks straight out of the tropics, yet it does surprisingly well in desert landscapes. … Read more
Bull grass is a top-performing, but little-known, ornamental grass with a bevy of attributes. It’s compact, has a long bloom season, is nearly maintenance-free, and doesn’t need to be divided. … Read more