Common name:Italian Cypress
Botanical name:Cupressus sempervirens
This narrow tree will grow to about 25' tall and has small, green, scaled leaves.
Common name:Red Yucca
Botanical name:Hesperaloe parviflora
Upright rosettes grow quickly to 3' x 5' wide. Spectacular accent for desert landscape. Leaves are dark green and strap-like. Coral red flower spikes emerge in spring & remain on plant till end of summer. Tolerates tough conditions including reflected heat and frost. Attracts humingbirds. Native to western Texas and northeastern Mexico.
Common name:Golden Barrel Cactus
Botanical name:Echinocactus grusonii
Globe shaped cactus grows slowly to 1-1/2' x 2'. Golden spines line medium green ribs. Yellow flowers appear in spring. Full sun but prefers some shade in low desert. Striking accent. Looks attractive in groupings. Native to southern Mexico.
Common name:Improved Lantana
Botanical name:Lantana hybrid
Mounding trailing groundcover grows quickly to 2' x 3'. Leaves are medium green. Leaves and sap may irritate skin. Vibrant summer color. Attracts butterflies. Full sun. Flowers year-round in frost-free weather. If hit by frost wait until spring to prune back. Many hybrids, look for a variety of flower colors.
Common name:Pink Muhly
Botanical name:Muhlenbergia capillaris
Mounding grass grows quickly to 3' x 3'. Leaves are medium green and turn tan in fall. Pink airy plumes appear in fall. Place plants where pink flower plumes can be backlit by the sun. Look for selections with deep pink flower plumes. Accepts full sun or partial shade. Very frost tolerant. Prune in early spring for best looking new growth. Native to Texas and Mexico.
Designer: Sabina Munoz | Brick Patio Garden 1 |
Photographer: GardenSoft |
Incorporate compost 6" into your soil to retain water, reduce compaction, feed earthworms, and provide valuable nutrients to your plants.
Water-wise plants can be beautiful as well as practical.
Ask at your local nursery for the types of plants that have minimal watering needs.
Develop healthy soil for plants that are vigorous and naturally pest-resistant.