Bottle Tree: Straight & Narrow
Bottle tree is a unique tree that you can identify by simply looking at its trunk. Unlike most desert trees, it grows bean-pole straight and narrow. Here’s how to plant … Read more
San Marcos Hibiscus: No-Fuss, Native Alternative
San Marcos hibiscus is a Sonoran Desert native that makes a great alternative to tropical hibiscus species, which are notoriously challenging to grow in the desert. Here’s everything you need … Read more
Creeping Fig: Clinging Vine for Shade
Creeping fig is different than most vines grown in the desert. It seldom flowers, prefers shade, and clings to almost any structure without support. It’s not an “all-purpose” desert vine … Read more
What to Plant in the Fall (Month by Month)
It’s generally been accepted that spring and fall are the best times to plant. But recently, the experts are “warming up” to the idea that fall is the best time … Read more
Parry’s Agave: Silver Leaves, Sharp Spines
Parry’s agave is a beautifully symmetrical agave with silver leaves that make it an eye-catching landscape plant. (But beware of the wicked thorns!) Here’s everything you need to know about … Read more
Blue Palo Verde: Unmistakable Sign of Spring
Blue palo verde is a fast-growing, drought-tolerant tree with green bark. You know that spring has arrived when these trees put on their display of sunny yellow flowers. Here’s everything … Read more
Purple Muhly: Graceful Native Grass
Purple muhly is an ornamental grass related to the more common pink muhly. While not showy, it is lovely in an understated way and deserves a place in desert gardens. … Read more
Firecracker Bush: Fiery & Festive
Firecracker bush is a tropical-looking shrub that provides year-round color — vivid red-orange flowers and leaves that change from bright green to copper in the fall. Here’s how to grow … Read more
Foothills Palo Verde: Keystone Desert Tree
Foothills palo verde is the most common tree in the Sonoran Desert, so it certainly will thrive in desert gardens with little-to-no care provided you get it off to the … Read more
Pink Flamingo Muhly: Cloud-Like Plumes
Pink flamingo muhly is a hybrid cross of a Texas native that thrives in the southwest. When in bloom, its pink plumes are so fluffy they’ve been described as looking … Read more
Aloe ‘Diablo’: Devilishly Attractive
With blue-green leaves lined with distinctive red margins, aloe ‘Diablo’ is an eye-catcher. ‘Diablo’ means devil, but this plant is friendlier than it sounds, since the “teeth” are fleshy rather … Read more
Pomegranate: Much More Than a Fruit Tree
If you’re looking to grow fruit in the desert, pomegranate should be a top choice. As a Middle Eastern native, it thrives in hot, dry desert gardens. And it also … Read more