Trees
Acacia – Blue Leaf Wattle
Acacia saligna
A small, evergreen tree growing 20 feet tall and wide. Thornless, easy care. Brief but profuse show of yellow flowers in spring.
A working library of the desert-adapted plants we design with across the Phoenix Valley — 285 trees, shrubs, succulents and more. Search by name or browse by type to find what suits your space.
Acacia saligna
A small, evergreen tree growing 20 feet tall and wide. Thornless, easy care. Brief but profuse show of yellow flowers in spring.
Acacia stenophylla
25’-35’ tall by 20’ spread; Reddish brown bark; Lower litter; Tolerant and tough tree; Moderate to fast growth rate. Fragrant flowers in autumn.
Acacia farnesiana
Moderate growing evergreen tree with fragrant flowers fall, winter and spring. Grows 15-20ft tall. Brown branches with thorns, moderate litter.
Acacia salicina
30’x 20’ Evergreen, thornless, fast grower; variable in form. Tolerant and tough tree; excellent shade tree, lush looking; fragrant flowers in fall.
Malus domestica 'Anna'
Ideal apple variety for Sonoran desert climates in southern Arizona.
Vauquelinia californica
Can reach 20’ – slow growing. Foliage is dark green and leathery; Tiny creamy white flowers in clusters appear in summer; Tolerant and easy to care for hardy native plant. Can be pruned to a tree form.
Schinus terebinthifolius
Brazilian pepper-tree is a lush evergreen tree that matures about 25 ft tall and wide sometimes greater. Flowering occurs from September through November and fruits are usually mature by December. Thornless, low litter.
Caesalpinia cacalaco
Small, evergreen tree matures 15 to 20’. Clusters of yellow flowers in fall and winter. Low water use, low maintenance.
Vitex agnus - castus
Small, flowering deciduous tree; to 15’. Lavender flowers in summer.
Lush tree flowers spring to fall. Leaves drop in winter. Very hardy and low maintenance. Adapts well to the Sonoran Desert. Moderate growth rate and mature size.
Large, fast growing shade tree. Adapted to the desert with sufficient watering. Leaves drop in winter.
Lagerstroemia indica
Small, flowering tree to 15’x10’; Excellent summer color -flowers May-Sept; Good fall foliage color.
Chilopsis linearis
Moderate growth rate; 20’ tall x 15’ wide. Prolific pink to purple flowers from spring through fall, winter deciduous. No thorns, low water use.
Pinus eldarica
Eldarica pine is a relatively fast growing evergreen to 50 feet in height and spread. Variable growth forms at maturity. Very well adapted to southwestern deserts.
Ulmus parvifolia
Fast growing semi-evergreen; Chinese Elm can reach 40’x40’; Has beautiful mottled bark that sheds in thin flakes. Excellent shade tree for southwestern deserts.
Ulmus parvifolia
Semi-evergreen; 50’x35’ –more pyramidal growth. Excellent, fast growing shade tree.
Pyrus kawakamii
Winter flowering deciduous tree to 15 feet high with equal spread. Green in summer, good fall color and blooms in February. Good four season tree.
Ficus benjamina
Lovely tree with lush, dense glossy green leaves. Loves desert heat but prone to frost damage –use in sheltered areas, pots; in sun or shade.
Nandina domestica
Grows 3-5’ tall and 2-3’ wide. Grows best in partial shade under high canopy trees. Very low maintenance. Foliage colors in cold weather. Very hardy.
Olneya tesota
Ironwoods are one of the longest living trees in the Sonoran desert. The Ironwood is an evergreen reaching heights of 25 to 30 feet. Clusters of pea-like flowers in May.
Jacaranda mimosifolia
Deciduous tree maturing 30-50’ tall, with 20-30’ spread; Beautiful purple flowers cover the tree in April and May. Grows fast and is a good shade tree.
Fortunella crassifolia
Kumquats are rounded, densely branched little trees rarely exceeding 8-10 in height. The evergreen leaves are glossy, bears fragrant flowers and fruit several times per year.
Citrus sp.
Lemon trees like full sun. Fast growing, evergreen, thorns. Fragrant flowers and fruit.
Quercus virginiana
Live oak is a slow growing, thornless, evergreen tree well adapted to hot dry climates. Easy care. Live oak retains foliage year-round; dropping leaves and regenerating new growth within a few weeks each spring.
Prosopis chilensis
To 30’x30.’ Fast growing, semi-evergreen, fine texture. Moderate, seasonal litter. Umbrella shape provides good shade.
Prosopis‘Crown Jewel’
Slower growing with a thicker trunk than other Mesquites which makes it much less likely to blow over, and means less maintenance; Thornless; drops leaves for a short time in the winter.
Prosopis velutina
Foliage is a soft gray-green; blends well with the arid climate. Deciduous; hardy native tree; provides filtered shade. Matures 25 feet tall and wide.
Acacia aneura
Up To 20 feet tall, 10 - 15 feet spread. Reddish-brown trunk and golden yellow flowers bloom spring and fall. The leaves are beautiful silver gray in color. Evergreen, low liter; requires little pruning.
Citrus sp.
Dwarf trees mature under 10ft height. Ornamental fruit is delicious and colorful in winter. Incredible fragrance when blooming.
Acacia willardiana
Semi evergreen; has an upright habit with a mature height of 20’ and spread of 10’; Provides filtered shade and is a good tree for courtyards or smaller areas.
Parkinsonia praecox
Palo Brea grows to about 25 feet tall and wide, and it has an irregular, umbrella- shaped canopy. Its smooth green bark and bright yellow flowers have made this a very popular tree. More lush than other Palo Verdes. Blooming Time: May – June.
Parkinsonia florida
First Palo Verde to bloom in the spring; becomes a mass of golden flowers. Up to 25’x25’ Bark and foliage have a blue-green tint. Hardy, Arizona state tree.
Parkinsonia ' Sonoran Emerald'
Fast growing, low litter; 25-30’ tall; Blooms spring- summer; Excellent blue-green hybrid Palo Verde that has a more lush appearance.
Parkinsonia aculeata
Fast growing, low litter; 25-30’ tall; Blooms for an extended season and provides filtered shade. Excellent improved, thornless Palo Verde hybrid.
Parkinsonia microphylla
To 10 to 15 ft; Slow growing Palo Verde; Yellow flowers in the spring; Native to Arizona. Lime green branches and leaves.
Feijoa sellowiana
Small patio tree to 8’-12’; Spring to summer bloom time; Handsome evergreen and hardy. Edible flowers and fruit.
Prunus sp.
In the desert standard size plum trees reach a mature height of 10-15ft.
Lavish and lush foliage an excellent shade tree. Mexican native well adapted to southwestern deserts. Nearly evergreen, low maintenance.
Dalbergia sissoo
Evergreen to semi-deciduous; large, open, and erect tree with lush, oval-pointed leaves. Height: 30 to 50 feet, spread to 30 feet. Provides verdant shade.
Olea europaea
Foliage is a soft gray-green; blends well with the arid climate. Adaptable and tolerant; Tuscan/Mediterranean origin.
Pithecellobium flexicaule
Evergreen, desert species; slow growth to 25’x25’. Especially dark green foliage, dense with interesting shape. Thorny with small white flowers in late spring.
Sophora secundiflora
Texas Mtn. Laurel Very attractive tree that has fragrant purple flowers late February – March. It is a slow growing, evergreen thornless tree. Grows 15-20’ tall.
Evergreen to partially deciduous tree, upright and broadly spreading with age. Yellow flowers bloom in early summer.
Prunus sp.
Peaches grow relatively well in the desert. The best variety for the Phoenix area is Bonanza. They can take full sun, but it is recommended to give them afternoon shade.
Dietes vegeta
African Iris grow 2-3’ tall and 1-2’ wide. They have 3” flowers that bloom in spring or early summer, and sporadically throughout the year. Evergreen, low maintenance.
Agapanthus
The blooms are beautiful and range from white to dark blue. Flower stems are surrounded by clumps of long, strap-like leaves. Evergreen perennial. Prefers shade in Phoenix. Water and fertilize often.
Hymenoxys acaulis
Angelita Daisy foliage is green and the flower is a sunny yellow. It forms rounded clumps up to 12 inches tall and 18 inches wide. In Phoenix, this plant blooms from late winter through early fall. Angelita daisy prefers well-drained soils and full sun. It is very cold, heat, and drought tolerant. Deadhead to encourage rebloom.
Jasminum sambac
This desert adaptable species has heavily scented white flowers and glossy green leaves. Sprawling form will easily grow on a trellis. Evergreen, low maintenance.
Vitex trifolia 'Purpurea'
Exceptional aromatic foliage accent plant with green on top with purple undersides. Clusters of small purple flowers appear at shoot tips.
Tecoma stans
Very fast growing to 10’ tall and 6’ wide. Blooms spring to fall; Attracts hummingbirds; Full sun-part shade; Leaves shed if too cold; thin and head back in early spring to renew flowers and foliage.
Artemisia 'Powis Castle'
Silver foliage provides excellent contrast to flowering plants and green foliage in borders and herb gardens. Good selection for areas with poor dry soils. Powis Castle is a bushy, woody-based perennial. It rarely flowers. Foliage is finely divided and feathery in appearance. Typically grows in a shrubby mound to 2-3' tall and as wide.
Asparagus densiflorus 'Sprengeri'
Sun or shade exposures; 2-4’ long arching stems with bright green foliage. Excellent container plant or in landscapes. Desert adaptable, and durable.
Asparagus densiflorus Meyeri
Salvia greggii
sprawling shrub with small green leaves and bright red flowers in autumn; Attracts hummingbirds; 3’x3’; Semi evergreen. Trim stems to encourage rebloom.
Cuphea llavea
Grows 18-24” wide and tall. Bushy to mounding perennial is native to Mexico. Blooms resemble purple–red bat faces from spring till fall. Great attractor of hummingbirds.
Nolina microcarpa
Grows 24-36 in. tall and wide. Grows best in sun to partial shade. White blooms in late spring or early summer. Robust evergreen perennial grown for its foliage with special curly tips.
Dietes bicolor
Grows to about 3’x3’; evergreen, flowers in the spring, lush plant around water features and in courtyards. Afternoon shade required.
Strelitzia reginae
Bird of paradise flower mostly in the autumn. Glossy green foliage fits well in to tropical theme. Water and fertilize often. Grow in sheltered places and protect from frost.
Strelitzia nicolai
Large, clumping evergreen with huge (to 5 foot) leaves on stalks up to 6 feet. Exotic white and blue flowers resembling tropical birds. Provides a lush tropical effect in the landscape. Useful near pools, courtyards and in large containers. Place in sheltered areas only –avoid sunny, windy areas. Water and fertilize often.
Dalea frutescens
An evergreen shrub, fast growing, up to 3 feet high with a 5 feet spread. Purple/white flowers bloom October - early March. Low maintenance native.
Callistemon viminalis 'Little John'
Evergreen to about 3’x3’; Moderate growth rate. Exotic looking red brush-like flowers. Low maintenance plant.
Bougainvillea Rosenka
Bush variety of Bougainvillea that blooms throughout the year. Salmon/pink/orange “flowers”. Grows 3’ X 4’.
Bougainvillea ‘Torchglow’
Colorful and rewarding plant; Torchglow can grow to 15’. Can be trained to a small tree. Free-standing shrub does not need support. Low water use. Produces less litter than other bougainvilleas.
Euonymus japonica
5’x5’; Low maintenance; takes well to shearing; Evergreen; Makes a nice background or foundation plant that can be counted on to always look good.
Buxus sp.
Grows best in full sun to partial shade; moist, well-drained soil. Grows 3 to 6 feet tall and 3 to 4 feet tall. Loose, rounded natural shrub, but can take a lot of shearing.
Carissa macrocarpa
Evergreen shrub to 4’ tall and wide. White flowers in the late winter to spring; Full sun to part shade. Frost sensitive plant.
Carissa macrocarpa
Compact and dark green – matures about 18” tall and 24” wide. White flowers in the spring; Full sun to part shade – loves intense heat. Extremely low maintenance plant. Protect from frost.
Encelia farinosa
Deer resistant; Attracts pollinators; Remove flower heads to renew growth; Cut back in fall or spring to encourage new growth. Blooms winter to spring. Self-sows new plants.
Ambrosia deltoidea
3x3’; Semi-evergreen; Low litter; Excellent tolerance to drought and desert conditions. Classic desert filler shrub. Green flowers.
Dalea pulchra
Upright, evergreen shrub that grows 4-5’ tall x 3-5’ wide. The leaves are tiny, gray, oval, and fuzzy. Numerous purple flowers bloom all winter and into spring.
Canna x generalis
This perennial has large, lush, tropical foliage that can be solid green or tinged red. The flowers are red, orange, or yellow. They grow 3-5 ft tall. Water and fertilize often. They will become dormant during cold winters – rebound in spring.
Cassia artemisioides
Rounded, feathery shrub; evergreen. Size: 4-6ft with equal spread. Fast growth rate. Flowers in winter and spring. Takes well to shearing or natural pruning. Low water use.
Cassia covesii
Cassia phyllodinea
Very ornamental bushy shrub to 6 feet high. Silver foliage flashes in the sun. Blooms October to April. Fast growth, low maintenance xeriscape plant.
Salvia clevelandii
Blue flowers in mid spring; Attracts hummingbirds; Heavily scented foliage. Best with afternoon shade.Best to prune in 2 stages - 1/3 in fall - then half of remaining in winter.
Leucophyllum laevigatum
Evergreen shrub, 4 to 5 feet tall &wide. Light green leaves. Flowers bloom from summer through fall –mostly after rainfall. Very hardy, takes well to shearing or natural pruning. Low water use plant.
Leucophyllum laevigatum
Evergreen shrub, 4 to 5 feet tall &wide. Light green leaves. Flowers bloom from summer through fall –mostly after rainfall. Very hardy, takes well to shearing or natural pruning. Low water use plant.
Leucophyllum laevigatum
Clivia miniata
Must be grown in shaded areas. Clusters of orange, trumpet-shaped flowers bloom in the fall. Low care but regular water and some fertilizer.
Larrea tridentata
Classic desert shrub; native evergreen, 6’x8’. Foliage has sweet fragrance after rainfall. Full sun; minimal maintenance; yellow blooms mainly in spring.
Hemerocallis sp.
Muhlenbergia rigens
Ornamental grass is evergreen and grows in sun or shade; Very fast growing to 3’x3’. Tan color flower spikes in fall.
Muhlenbergia rigens ‘Regal Mist’
Ornamental and evergreen, this grass is fast growing to 3’x3’; Tall spikes of pink tinted flowers in the fall.
Phacelia campanularia
Grows about 1 - 2 feet tall and wide. It has a brilliant blue color, bell shaped flower with 5 petals, about 1 inch in diameter that blooms February to April. Annual wildflower dies after bloom.
Justicia spicigera
Evergreen shrub grows about 3 feet in height and width. Large fuzzy green leaves and tubular orange flowers spring, summer and fall. Native to Mexico – attracts hummingbirds. Sun or part shade.
Hyptis emoryi
Ornamental, fast growing evergreen shrub to 8’ x 8’; Blooms spring to summer. Strong lavendar fragrance. Takes well to shearing or natural pruning. Hard to kill native plant.
Baileya multiradiata
Gray foliage grows 12inches tall and 18inches wide. Yellow flower heads on long thin stems. Blooms nearly year around. Classic desert wildflower reseeds itself readily.
Asclepias subulata
This is a good xeriscape landscape plant for southern Arizona. Gray green stems usually leafless, contain a milky sap. Attracts butterflies and other pollinators. Growing 2 - 4 feet tall and about 2 - 4 feet wide. Low maintenance native.
Duranta erecta 'Sweet Memories'
Open sprawling and irregular growth habit can reach up to 8‘. Showy blue or purple flowers during entire warm season. Prune occasionally to shape. Moderate water use.
Myoporum parvifolium
Full sun to part shade; Evergreen; Small white flowers April to May; Fast growing, do not over water.
Bromeliad hardy to Sonoran Desert conditions, very low maintenance, colorful foliage and flowers.
Calliandra eriophylla
Sonoran Desert native shrub. Blooms fall, winter and spring. Matures at about 3’ tall and wide. Prune to shape in spring. Very hardy and drought tolerant. Attracts hummingbirds.
Calliandra californica
Upright shrub with feathery leaves and bright red flowers in warm weather. Attracts hummingbirds; Grows 5’tall and 3’wide. Native to Mexico.
Bold and handsome foliage plant. Exotic looking but hardy. Use in shade and provide ample moisture.
Lavandula pinnata
Perennial plant, spikes of blue flowers in fall, winter and spring. 3'x3'. Low water. Cut back for rebloom. Attracts hummingbirds!
Lysiloma microphyllum
Grows slowly to about 15 feet tall. Creamy white flowers bloom in late spring. Evergreen, thornless, native to Arizona.
Ficus carica
A small tree or large shrub to 15’ tall. Varieties produce edible fruit.
Hamelia patens
A lush shrub that attracts butterflies and hummingbirds. Native to Mexico. Blooms spring and fall. Loves heat but protect from frost.
Sonoran Desert native, delicate appearance belies tough, low maintenance flowering shrub. Grows about 18” height and 24” width.
Dietes iridioides
African Iris grow 2-3’ tall and 1-2’ wide. They have 3” flowers that bloom in spring or early summer, and sparadically throughout the rest of the year.
Gardenia jasminoides
Evergreen shrub, which grows to a height and width of 2 to 6 feet, depending on the variety. The foliage is glossy, dark-green, flowers are very fragrant. Grow in sheltered area. High maintenance plant – water and fertilize often.
Gaura lindheimeri
This airy and delicate herbaceous perennial sends up arching sprays of small orchid-like blooms, in late winter and continuing into the summer. Attracts butterflies. Grows in a loose, bushy clump 2 - 4 feet tall with a spread of 2 -3 feet. Also white flower form.
Sphaeralcea ambigua
Fast growing, evergreen; 3’x3’. Orange, white, pink or purple flowers; Cut back for rebloom. Hardy native - perennial wildflower.
Viguiera deltoidea
Grows up to 3 feet tall and wide. Golden-yellow flowers bloom spring, summer and fall. Outstanding ornamental shrub is hardy and low water use.
Euphorbia rigida
Mounding evergreen perennial grows about 2’ tall x 3’ wide. Flowers in in late winter and spring. Cut back old flower stems each fall. Low water use and rabbit resistant.
Leucophyllum frutescens
Hibiscus rosa-sinensis
Flowers during warm weather. Individual flowers last only one day. Evergreen plant that looks good all year if properly cared for. Water and fertilize often. Watch for insects and protect from frost. Other colors available.
Hibiscus brackenridgei
Flowers most of the year and most prolific in the spring. Flowers last only one day. Evergreen plant that looks good all year if properly cared for; Fits well with tropical themed landscape. Requires regular garden care.
Dodonaea viscosa
Sonoran Desert native. Fast growing evergreen up to 10’x10’. Grown for lush year around foliage color. Dense, takes well to shearing or natural pruning. Low water use.
Dodonaea viscosa 'Purpurea‘
Hardy shrub, fast growth up to 10’x10’; Grown for foliage which colors in cold weather and is green in summer.
Rhaphiolepis indica
Prefers part shade. Durable, freeze hardy evergreen. Pink flowers in the spring; 3’x4’. Easy maintenance.
Cupressus sempervirens
Dramatic accent plant; vertical affects. Evergreen, low water use.
Ligustrum japonicum
Dense evergreen shrub that grows at a moderate rate to 10 or 12 feet tall and wide. Classic topiary shrub or small tree. Can be pruned to formal shapes.
Simmondsia chinensis
Sonoran Desert native shrub. Use as screen, hedge, foundation plant for a lush green foliage year round. Low water use, easy maintenance.
Lantana camara
Sprawling shrub loves hot weather. 2’tall x 4’ wide. Cut back after last frost for a flush of new spring growth.
Lantana camara
Evergreen; Excellent, long lasting hot weather color; 3’x3’; Cut back after last frost for a flush of new spring growth.
Lantana camara
Evergreen; Excellent, long lasting hot weather color; 3’x4’; Cut back after last frost for a flush of new spring growth. Striking tricolor flowers.
Lantana camara
Excellent, long lasting summer time color. Blooms red-orange-yellow flowers. Grows 3’ tall and wide. Evergreen plant, although it may need to be cut back after last frost for a flush of new spring growth.
Cordia parvifolia
This is a gray-green foliage shrub that contrasts well with other shrubs. Blooms March – November. Delicate looking blooms but hardy plant. Matures 8’x8’.
Olea europaea 'Montra'
A bushy evergreen shrub that makes a neat appearance. This dwarf non-fruiting olive displays attractive dark green leaves and is heat, drought and salt tolerant. Excellent for hedges. Maturing 4 to 6 ft. tall and wide. Growth rate: slow.
Salvia leucantha
Fast growing perennial attracts hummingbirds. Heaviest bloom is in fall and some in spring. Cutting back once a year in late summer is recommended. Height and width: 3 - 4 feet.
Cuphea hyssopifolia
Grows 12in tall x 12 in wide. Grows best in sun to partial shade. Purple flowers blooms in warm weather. Good in pots.
Justicia spicigera
Evergreen shrub up to about 2-3 feet tall and 3-4 ft wide. Large, soft green foliage and tubular orange flowers spring, summer and fall. Hummingbirds attractors.
Pittosporum tobira
Full to part shade. Very slow growth to 2’x4’; Evergreen; Has nice citrus fragrance; Extremely low maintenance and durable. Variegated variety available.
Liriope muscari
Evergreen; spring flowers; 12” x 12” Very tolerant plant, but best in full shade.
Ephedra sp.
A native evergreen shrub; slow growing, usually 18 inches tall by 5 feet wide. Very hardy, low maintenance greenery.
Verbena tenuisecta
Blooms spring to fall; Will readily reseed itself; Evergreen; 12” x 36”; Full sun to part shade. Shear to encourage re-bloom.
Sansevieria trifasciata
Myrtus communis
10’ tall x 10 wide’; White flowers; Full to part sun; Evergreen
Myrtus communis 'Compacta'
4’x4’; White flowers; Full to part sun; Evergreen; Takes well to pruning or shearing; Can be used as a hedge.
Myrtus communis 'Boetica'
Elegant Mediterranean plant with interesting branching structure; 9-15’; Evergreen; Slow growing; Variable in form, can be pruned as a shrub, or a small tree; White flowers; Full to part sun.
Tecoma stans
Fast growing; evergreen; 10’x8’; Blooms spring to fall; Attracts hummingbirds; Full sun-part shade; Can shed if too cold; Thin and head back in early spring to renew flowers and foliage. Remove seed pods to encourage re-bloom. AZ native.
Tough plants – shrub and tree forms. Bloom for long period – spring through fall. White, pink or red flowers.
Nerium oleander ‘Petite Pink’
Evergreen shrub slow to moderate growth matures about 8’x8’. Can be kept smaller with pruning. Blooms spring , summer and fall. Faster growth with moderate watering. *All parts of oleander are poisonous.
Nerium oleander ‘Petite Red’
Evergreen bush slowly growing to about 8’ tall and wide. Red flowers bloom mid February- November *All parts of oleander are poisonous.
Tecoma alata
Evergreen shrubs that grow rapidly to 10’ tall and 6’ wide. Full sun to part shade. Somewhat frost sensitive; recovers rapidly in spring. Flowers attract hummingbirds; blooms spring, summer and fall.
Penstemon parryi
Native perennial to 4’ tall x 2’wide; Likes full sun; Flowers winter-spring. Cut back after flowering. Sometimes self-sows. Attracts hummingbirds.
Penstemon eatonii
2’ tall x 4’; Likes full sun to part shade; Blooms winter to spring; sometimes summer and fall. Cut back to encourage re-bloom. Hummingbird favorite. Native wildflower.
Verbena peruviana
Decorative foliage plant. Grows to about 2’ height and 3’ width. Needs shady location. Great in pots.
Phormium sp.
Excellent for focal point or pots; Full sun to part shade; 2’-6’ depending on variety.
Photinia x fraseri
A densely branched shrub used for hedge of screens. It has oval leaves that are bright bronze red in youth –especially in winter and mature to a dark, leathery green. Moderate to fast grower to 6 to 8 ft high and wide.
Acca sellowiana
Full to part sun; 10-12’; Spring to summer bloom. Edible flowers and fruit. Hardy, evergreen shrub.
Calliandra sp.
Vining shrub with large fluffy flowers and attractive foliage. Blooms spring and fall.
Punica granatum
3x3ft, decorative flowers and fruit. Full sun to part shade. Blooms mid spring to summer; Evergreen foliage. Can trim formally.
Prunus cerasifera
Dramatic colored foliage -briefly deciduous; Moderate growth to 10’x15’; Pink to white flowers in late winter before the new leaves come out.
Solarium rantonnetii
Grows 4-6 ft tall by 3-4 ft wide. Sun to partial shade. Purple/blue violet flowers bloom spring and fall. Can be trained/pruned into most any shape.
Zephyranthes candida
Full sun to part shade; Blooms late summer to fall –especially during monsoon season. 12” tall and wide. Evergreen or drought dormant.
Caesalpinia pulcherrima
Fast growing to 8’ tall and 10’ wide. Red, orange and yellow flowers bloom during hot weather. Cut to ground each spring to rejuvenate.
Leucophyllum langmaniae
Grows 5’ high x 5’ wide. Profuse and fragrant blue-lavender flowers in the summer-fall. It has a nice dense and round growth habit. Most evergreen of all sages.
Rosa sp.
Full sun to part shade. Numerous hybrids available. Best blooms spring and fall. Water and fertilize often.
Rosa 'Iceberg’
Full sun to part shade; Evergreen; White flowers nearly year round. Water and fertilize frequently. Nearly thornless.
Rosemarinus officinalis
Evergreen, 3’x5’ upright growth habit; Edible herb. Flowers winter to spring; Very tough and tolerant landscape plant.
Ruellia peninsularis
To about 3’x5’; Takes well to shearing or leave natural. Evergreen, native; Purple-blue flowers spring, summer and fall.
Ruellia brittoniana
Full sun to part shade; 1’x2’ Flowers from spring to fall.
Verbena rigida
Grows 12” tall to 36” wide. It has abrasive leaf texture and purple flowers that bloom in the spring. Grows quickly. Shear to encourage re-bloom.
Leucophyllum candidum
Silver Cloud’ Sage is grown for its white foliage and rich purple flowers. Grows slowly to about 4 feet tall and wide. Silver Cloud Sage has a dense growth habit. Do not overwater.
Tulbaghia violacea
Full sun to part shade; Clump forming herbacious perennial; Has grass like leaves and attractive purple flowers. Strong garlic fragrance.
Stachys coccinea
Grows 18” tall x 18” wide. Red flowers bloom mid-summer. Hummingbird favorite. The attractive dark green foliage is also fragrant.
Leucophyllum frutescens
Compacta variety matures 8’x8’. Blooms summer and fall. Low water use; attracts birds and butterflies. Fast growth. Nearly evergreen. Takes well to shearing or no trimming. Heat and cold hardy.
Super fast growing ornamental. Jungle or Asian landscape design. Water often and remove spent canes as needed.
Ericameria laricifolia
Evergreen grows about 2’tall and 3’wide; golden yellow blooms in autumn; low litter; low water; hardy native plant. Attracts butterflies; rabbit resistant.
Citrus sp.
Evergreen; delicious fruit ripens in winter. Best to leave lower branches to protect the trunk from sun scorch; fertilize three times per year.
Eremophila maculata
Evergreen; Beautiful dark pink flowers in the winter to spring; takes well to shearing or natural pruned appearance. Attracts hummingbirds.
Pittosporum tobira 'Variegatum'
Attractive mounding evergreen shrub with white, gray and light green foliage. Creamy white flowers are small but have a terrific orange-blossom fragrance. Can grow up to 6’ tall and wide.
Xylosma congestum
Full sun to part shade; Evergreen; Can be left to grow naturally or can be sheared; Can grow to 10’. Makes a nice formal hedge or screen.
Ilex vomitoria
Hardy evergreen; Can be sheared to almost any desired shape; Up to 5’x5’. Slow growing, long lived.
Caesalpinia mexicana
Excellent patio tree; 10-15’ tall; Evergreen, thornless, low water use. Has a more lush look than most desert shrubs; Blooms year around.
Melampodium leucanthum
Excellent ground cover with bright daisy flowers bloom late winter through fall. Likes full sun. 1’ high by 2-3’ wide; Has excellent long lasting color. Shear to encourage rebloom. Desert native.
Convolvulus cneorum
Evergreen silvery foliage spreads 3’ wide by 18’ tall. Showy white flowers are prolific in late winter and spring. Low litter and no thorns. Nice mounding groundcover plant.
Hardy and long blooming varieties. Low and spreading growth. Easy care ‘landscape’ rose.
Russelia equisetiformis
Fast growing, easy to cultivate, perennial, evergreen shrub, native to Mexico. It blooms almost continuously making it a must have plant for our desert butterfly gardens. Grows well in full sun to partial shade. May reach 3 feet in height and spreading to 4 foot wide. Blooming time: April thru November.
Chrysactinia mexicana
Likes full sun; Evergreen groundcover plant. Drought tolerant. Remarkably bright yellow flowers in spring and fall. Rabbit Resistant.
Acacia redolens
Lush and evergreen, this groundcover reaches 2 feet tall, spreading about 6 - 12 feet. Blooms mid February. Low maintenance plant. Excellent plant to cover large areas with lush green foliage.
Dichondra sp.
Dense, low growing ground cover; Can be mowed short, or let to grow naturally; Is shade tolerant.
Gazania ringens
Evergreen groundcover to 8” tall by 24” spreading; Low litter, blooms winter and spring. Sometimes short lived – requires replacements.
Malephora lutea
Moderate growth rate. 8” tall ground cover to 6’ spread. Flowers winter through spring. Low litter, no thorns
Lantana montevidensis
Extremely easy to grow, requiring only occasional attention. Good ground cover provides lots of color. Heaviest bloom spring and fall. Grow 12” tall x 4’ wide. Cut back periodically for re-bloom.
Lantana montevidensis
Extremely easy to grow, requiring only occasional attention. Good ground cover provides lots of color. Heaviest bloom spring and fall. Grow 12” tall x 4’ wide. Cut back periodically for re-bloom.
Lantana montevidensis
Extremely easy to grow, requiring only occasional trimming. Grow 12” tall x 4’ wide. Fast growth rate. Blooms spring, summer and fall.
Oenothera berlandieri
12 inch tall and fast spreading. Shear to encourage re-bloom. Large showy pink flowers in the spring and fall. Low litter and no thorns. Desert wildflower or garden filler.
Vinca major
Trailing evergreen groundcover spreads rampantly in moist shady areas. Periwinkle flowers bloom in spring.
Tradescantia pallida
This beautiful purple foliage plant can be grown as a ground cover or in a pot. Grows about 6-12 high and 24” wide. Medium water requirements. Plant in either full sun or partial shade. Cut back old stems occasionally.
Rosemarinus officinalis
Grows 2’x6’ trailing habit – excellent groundcover plant – always green. Flowers winter to spring. Very tough and tolerant plant.
Ruellia brittoniana
Full sun to part shade; 3’-4’ tall spreads if water available. Cut back each spring and again in late summer to rejuvenate. Excellent plant for lush landscape.
Thymus serpyllum
Full sun to part shade; Evergreen; 3” x 12”; Drought tolerant, prefers good drainage; Lilac flowers in spring to summer; Can be used in the kitchen! Treadable plant.
Evergreen ground-cover. Fast growing and very low maintenance. Brief bloom of yellow flowers in late winter.
Dalea greggii
Fast growing, evergreen groundcover at about 18 inches tall spreading to 8 feet. Silvery-green foliage and tiny purple flowers look delicate but is a very y plant. Low water use and low maintenance.
Vinca minor
Evergreen, fast growing groundcover creates a low green blanket of foliage; periwinkle color flowers in spring.
Wedelia trilobata
Full sun to part shade; lush green with small yellow flowers. During cold winters it may be killed to the ground, but it will come back quickly in warm weather. Excellent fast growing ground cover
Bougainvillea sp
. Fast growing vine/sprawling shrub. Unbeatable summertime color. Frost sensitive, but grows back quickly. Heavy litter plant. Well adapted to the desert -loves full sun and is drought tolerant.
Bougainvillea ‘Barbara Karst’
Fast growing vine or sprawling shrub. Unbeatable summertime color. Color comes from modified leaves - flowers are inconspicuous and white; Frost sensitive but will grow back. Heavy litter especially in the winter; Has thorns Requires training. Loves full sun, drought tolerant.
Pandorea jasminoides
Tropical vine. Prefers part sun; Will grow to 15’-20’ with support; Beautiful flowers from spring to summer.
Tecomaria capensis
Grows 8’x8’; Evergreen; Full sun-part shade; Blooms Sept-Feb; Attracts hummingbirds; Very versatile plant; Prune back to create denser shrub; Takes shearing well; Can be trained as a vine or left to its natural form.
Plumbago auriculata
Sun to part shade; Evergreen mounding shrub to 3’x5’; Blooms heaviest March to November. Can be trained as a vine or trim occasionally to shape.
Gelsemium sempervirens
This attractive, evergreen, climber gives a winter to spring display of showy yellow blossoms. It is a good ornamental cover for fences or walls in shady areas -will not take full sun in desert areas. It is a fast grower, with stems to 20 feet long. The leaves are glossy green year around.
Macfadyena unguis-cati
This fast growing vine loves full sun. Evergreen; large yellow flowers in spring. Climbs masonry without training. Good fast cover for large walls.
Sonoran native. Fall blooming perennial. Dies to ground in winter, grows fast in summer. Use on trellis, fence or allow to climb any tree- like its natural habitat. Attracts bees and butterflies.
Ficus pumila
Best in part to full shade. Vigorous climber will grow as tall as the support structure will allow; self attaching. Cut back to control size.
Vitis sp.
Fast growing produces edible fruit; deciduous. Needs support trellis or other structure. Does well in desert climates.
Lonicera japonica 'Halliana'
Super fragrant, creamy-yellow flowers in spring. Use on a trellis with afternoon shade. Hardy and fast-growing.
Alyogyne huegelii
Evergreen; Full sun to part shade; 6’x6’; Can be trained as a vine or left naturally as a bush; Excellent late winter and spring color. Sometimes short lived.
Rosa banksiae
Excellent landscape vine. Full sun to part shade; 20’ or more if given support; Evergreen; Showy flowers bloom late winter to spring.
Rosa banksiae
Excellent landscape vine. Full sun to part shade; 20’ or more if given support; Evergreen; Showy flowers bloom late winter to spring.
Hardenbergia violacea
An evergreen vine to 15 feet. The leaves are dark glossy green about 6 inches long. Bloom time; mid February – April; fast growing. Attracts bees.
20624 N. 29th Place
Podranea ricasoliana
Fast growing in sun to part shade; 20’ or more if given support; Semi evergreen; showy flowers from late summer to fall. Attracts hummingbirds.
Solanum jasminoides
Full sun to part shade; Semi evergreen; Flowers year round in frost free weather.
Vigna caracalla
Fantastic purple flowers; best flower production in full sun but avoid reflected heat areas. Tropical evergreen; fast growing but may die back in winter; will quickly re-grow the following season.
Trachelospermum jasminoides
Hardy evergreen vine for climbing a trellis in full to part shade. Fragrant flowers in springtime. Easy care.
Twining evergreen vine, orange color flowers spring and fall.
Plumbago scandens
A low growing evergreen shrub or vine. Attracts birds and butterflies. White flowers bloom spring and fall. Desert native. Cut back hard in spring if frozen.
Agave murpheyi
A beautiful medium size agave from central Arizona and Sonora Mexico. Blue leaves. It is hardy and tolerant of drought conditions and full sun. 3’ height and spread.
Agave geminiflora
Grows 2’x2’ with symmetrical form; Full sun to part shade; Lacks the sharp spines of most agaves. Dark green color and fine texture. For pots or mass plantings.
Agave americana
Can exceed 6’ tall x 6’ wide. It has a dramatic blue-gray color. It is a hardy, drought tolerant, native, accent plant.
Agave deserti
Blue-gray leaves with sharp marginal teeth and a stiff, terminal spine. Forms a clump 1-2 ft. high and 2 ft. wide.
Agave vilmoriniana
Evergreen and tropical looking to 3’ tall with 4’-5’ spread. Full sun-part shade. Low maintenance with very unique and attractive form.
Agave desmettiana
Striking, bold form; fast growing. Makes excellent specimen or accent plant. Tropical or desert effects. Protect from freezing.
Agave parryi
Low maintenance native agave. Very decorative with blue gray color and bold but compact form. Matures about 18 inches tall and wide.
Agave weberii
Thick-leafed succulent, dramatic focal point plant. Blue-green color. Offset plantlets at base and mother plant dies after blooming. Size: to 6ft with equal spread; moderate growth rate.
Agave medio picta alba
Slow growing agave, with bold foliage color. Hardy species. Can reach 3’ tall and wide.
Beautiful accent plant. Slow growing, very hardy. Tidy plant slowly expands and becomes very decorative with age.
Beautifully colored accent plant, small to moderate size and very low maintenance. Looks good all year around.
Fast growing, produces abundant offshoots. Variegation brightens shaded spaces. Durable and dependable species.
Slow growing, ornamental succulent with bright green color.
Agave colorata
A beautiful, small to medium Agave which has wide, cross-banded, silver and bluish leaves. It is highly tolerant of drought conditions and full sun. It forms a succulent rosette, slowly clumping, 2 to 4 feet in diameter.
Slow growing, long lived, highly ornamental agave species. Extremely hardy and very low maintenance. Great for use in pots.
Beautiful, compact accent plant. Very hardy, long-lived and very low maintenance. Also good in pots.
Yucca baccata
Sonoran Desert native. Bloom stalks in spring. Very hardy and durable foliage plant.
Yucca rigida
Highly ornamental yucca rigida develops a branched trunk and its flowers are creamy white, bell shaped and are borne on a 5 to 6 foot stalk. This yucca has excellent heat and drought tolerance. Blue foliage color.
Yucca recurvifolia
3’ x 4’ at maturity. Bloom stalks in summer and fall reaching 2’-5’ above the plant. Excellent dark green foliage plant.
Yucca pallida
Grows 2-3’ tall and wide, not including bloom stalk. It is notable for its light-colored leaves that are a pale blue-gray in color. Clusters of white flowers on 5’ – 7’ tall spikes bloom in spring.
Yucca elata
Sonoran Desert native grows 6-20 feet tall. An evergreen erect, trunk-forming succulent, which also forms branches. Bloom spikes grow quickly in spring and decorative seed pods linger afterward. Low litter and low maintenance plant.
Yucca gloriosa
To 10’; Moderate growth rate. Excellent specimen or tropical accent plant. More lush looking than most other yuccas.
Aloe striata
Locate in part shade. Grows 3’x3’; Evergreen; Red to pink flowers in the spring. Drought tolerant, do not over water. For pots or landscape areas.
Aloe hybrid
Tight clumping aloe that grows to 18 inches tall by 18 inches wide with narrow upright gray-blue leaves that contrast well with spikes of orange flowers that appear from early winter to early spring (February-April) Attracts hummingbirds.
Aloe variegata
Evergreen; Flowers fall to spring; Spreading, clumping Best in pots and part shade.
Aloe species
Full sun or shade. Blooms in winter, inflorescence can be up to 3 feet tall. Hardy, low water use plant.
Aloe ferox
Grows slowly to 12 feet tall and 3 feet wide. Flower color varies from yellow - orange to a bright red. Flowering occurs between January - March. Attracts hummingbirds.
Aloe vera
Aloe vera has fleshy gray-green leaves growing to about 24 inches. The mother plant produces many small offset plants. Yellow to orange bloom spikes in late winter to spring. Medicinal uses.
Spring flowering, fast growing cactus, excellent focal specimen.
Bulbine frutescens
Thin spikes of orange or yellow blooms are borne in spring and summer. A succulent perennial that slowly spreads to form a clump. Average mature plant size: 12''H x 18''W
Euphorbia antisyphilitica
Candelilla has clusters of thin, upright, pencil-like stems. Native succulent grows to 2 feet tall, with a spread of about 3 feet. The flowers are small, pinkish highly ornamental. No maintenance plant.
Justicia california
Hummingbird shrub is deciduous maturing about 3 feet in height and up to 6’ wide. Gray-green succulent stems with tubular red flowers is native to deserts of California, Arizona, and Mexico. Blooms fall, winter and spring – great color plant.
Ferocactus acanthodes
Classic Sonoran Desert native cactus. Yellow, orange or red flowers in summer followed by decorative fruit. Do not overwater.
Dasylirion wheeleri
Ornamental foliage plant available in gray or green leaf. Hardy native semi-succulent, specimen plant. Durable and low maintenance. Desert or tropical effects.
Portulacaria afra
Lush looking trailing succulent with red-purple stems and green leaves. Tough plant with a moderate growth rate. Excellent in pots!
Ferocactus wislizeni
Like most cacti, low maintenance and slow growing; Always looks good and the red spines against the green cactus help this plant to stand out; Blooms in the spring.
Echinocactus grusonii
Moderate growth; Low maintenance; Bright yellow spines add year round color.
Aptenia cordifolia
Low succulent ground cover. Full to part sun. Blooms spring to fall. Fast growing groundcover is ideal for large planters. Protect from frost.
Echinocereus engelmannii
This is a small native, columnar cactus only reaching 4 to 12 inches tall, blooms with fuchsia flowers which close at night and reopen in the morning. Blooms in April.
Hesperaloe funifera
An excellent accent plant with a bold and striking form. Grows 4-6 feet tall and wide. Giant Hesperaloe has stiff, broad, lime green leaves with coarse white fibers along the margins. The plants will flower from early April to October, sending up a 12-15 foot tall flower spike of creamy white flowers. It tolerates reflected heat exposures, and is also hardy to 0°F.
Hesperaloe parviflora
Hardy plant, perennial color. Red to coral color flowers spring thru summer; No thorns; very tough, tolerant and low maintenance.
Hesperaloe parvifolia
Drought tolerant and very low maintenance. It is a clumping evergreen perennial with long, gray-green leaves, up to 3 feet tall, with a flower stalk to 6 feet, the plant spreads to 4 feet wide. It blooms April-November.
Pachycereus marginatus
Mexican Fencepost Cactus has columnar trunks that can reach 20 feet tall. Very attractive for landscape use. It is also less frost resistant, and should be protected below 25°F
Dasylirion longissimum
Highly ornamental and hardy. Slow growth to 5’x5’; Low litter, evergreen; Excellent focal point or specimen.
Cereus peruvianus
This columnar cacti is hardy and fast-growing. Just like the other cacti, it has spines and sharp edges contributing to its striking outline. It is characterized by its irregular shape. It is a great accent plant.
Mound making, slow spreading succulent provides great texture. Maintenance free.
Cereus grandiflorus
A large almost treelike cactus that can reach up to 15 feet in height spreading about 8’. Plants are blue-green color with short spines. They are very easy to grow and have a fast growth rate. Plants bloom in warm weather with very large trumpet-shaped flowers lasting only one night.
Fouquieria splendens
Beautiful plant with dramatic form; Plants may reach 18’ high and sometimes 10’ wide; After spring and summer rains the canes sprout green leaves; Spiky flame-like clusters of red flowers appear from April to July. Classic desert native plant.
Arizona hallmark plant. Hardy and low maintenance. Excellent accent plant for Sonoran Desert “look”.
Sonoran Desert native. Large growing specimen cactus. Beautiful flowers and edible fruit. Easy care and durable.
Euphorbia tirucalli
This succulent grows moderately fast and thrives warm climates. Excellent potted specimen. Low maintenance. Fire-sticks variety turns red-orange in winter. Poisonous if ingested.
Cereus peruvianus
Almost treelike cactus native to Argentina, Brazil and Peru. Can reach up to 10 feet in height with an equal spread. Plants have a grey-green color with short spines. They are very easy to grow. Likes full sun to light shade with a well-drained soil
Opuntia basilaris
Sonoran Desert native to about 12 inches tall by 3 feet wide. Fuchsia flowers are about 3 to 4 inches in diameter, blooming April to May. Blue to slightly purple color leaf pads 4 to 6 inches long and 2 to 5 inches wide.
Opuntia engelmannii
Bold and ornamental cacti with bright yellow flowers spring to summer; Tough and tolerant; Can be cut back to reduce size if needed. Decorative fruits attract birds in summer.
Opuntia violacea
Bold purple colored cacti with contrasting bright yellow flowers in spring. Tough and tolerant native. Purple color most pronounced in winter.
Opuntia robusta
Tough cactus with dramatic form, bold sculptural effect. It is extremely drought tolerant, cold hardy and a fast grower
Cereus giganteus
Dramatic native plant that symbolizes the Sonoran Desert; Arizona state flower. Saguaros can grow over 40’+ with multiple arms; Very slow growth rate. Can live 250 years.
Trichocereus pachanoi
Fast-growing columnar cactus native to the Andes of Peru and Ecuador. Fast growing columnar cactus – often increasing a foot per year and reaching heights of 15 feet. Protect from frost.
Cleistocactus strausii
Highly ornamental and unique - the Silver Torch Cactus is clothed in pretty silver spines. Grows up to 8’ tall. The silver torch starts blooming when the columns are about 18 inches tall. Low water use.
Pedilanthus tithymaloides
An evergreen succulent about 4 feet tall with a 3 foot spread. Leafless, light green stems. Hummingbirds are attracted to it's flowers. Blooms during warm weather. Low water use, low litter, almost maintenance free. Excellent in pots.
Opuntia bigelovii
Bold striking form with attractive glow produced by rising or setting sun; Looks good all year; Native to Arizona.
Pachycereus schottii
Fast growing columnar cactus. Completely thornless. Easy maintenance. Each plant is unique individual with variable form. Excellent accent plant.
Hesperaloe parviflora
Highly ornamental plant is drought tolerant and very low maintenance. It is a clumping evergreen perennial with long, gray-green leaves, up to 3 feet tall, with a flower stalks to 6 feet tall. It blooms for a long season April-November.
Phoenix dactylifera
Large palm with a mature height up to 75ft and 30 ft wide. Available in any size. Thrives in full sun and heat. Edible fruit on female species. Dramatic focal point plant. Drought-tolerant and long lived.
Slow growing, handsome foliage plant. Best used in shady locations. Low maintenance plant.
Chamaerops humilis
Slow growing palm to 20’; grows in multi-trunk clusters. Adds tropical, sculpture effect; Hardy to 10F degrees.
Brahea armata
Slow growing palm, with distinctive silvery-blue foliage. It is very hardy and a native to the Sonoran Desert.
Washingtonia robusta
This palm is native to the desert mountain valleys and canyons of Sonora and Baja Mexico. Fast growing to 100ft tall. Tropical and desert effects. Looks nice with up-lighting.
Slow growing and very hardy. Good for tropical or desert landscape accent. Very clean and low maintenance plant. Becomes more handsome with age.
Pineapple Palm Canary Island Date Palm Large scale, slow growing, majestic beauty. Very hardy. Lush tropical oasis image.
Phoenix roebelenii
Moderate to slow growth; 6’x6’; Attractive palm excellent for oasis garden or around pools and in pots. Protect from frost.
Syagrus romanzoffiana
Tropical palm, upright and graceful . Good focal point, strong accent, vertical statement, and tropical effect. Moderate to fast grower to 30’ tall. Full sun to partial shade, avoid hot windy exposures. Water and fertilize often.
Cycas revoluta
Evergreen, very hardy; slow growing. Grows best in part shade. May reach 8’ tall and wide in 50 years time. Low maintenance plant. Good in pots.