Not a cactus at all, ocotillo is a native desert shrub of tall, spiny canes that leaf out after rain and carry flame-colored flowers at their tips in spring. Its silhouette is as much a part of the Sonoran Desert as the saguaro.
Living with it in the Phoenix Valley
Watering
Water while it establishes using the shrub, groundcover and succulent schedule in our Landscape Care guide, but avoid overwatering a new transplant, which can kill it. Once established it needs little or no supplemental water. The canes leaf out after good rain and drop their leaves as the soil dries; that is normal.
Planting
Spring is the best time. Plant at the original depth, facing the same direction it grew, with its sun-hardened south side to the south. Skip organic amendments in the backfill and make sure the hole drains well.
Pruning
Not needed or recommended. Choose a spot that fits its full width so the canes never need cutting.
Is it alive?
New plants can sit bare for months. Pliable, green canes mean it is alive; leafing out and flowering are signs it has established.
How our designers use it
Silhouette
Against a plain wall or open sky, its fan of canes makes a striking accent, especially when lit at night.
Native and hummingbird gardens
Its spring flowers anchor a planting with brittlebush, globe mallow and barrel cactus.
Height without shade
It adds vertical drama in tight spaces where a tree would be too wide.
Good to know
Around the pool
Every cane is lined with sharp spines. We keep it well back from the pool edge, paths and play areas, where canes can catch skin and clothing.
Protected native
Ocotillo is a protected Arizona native. Buy from a nursery with the proper state tag or permit; collecting or moving plants from the wild requires a permit.
