Ten years ago, I bought an eight-inch organ pipe cactus (Stenocereus thurberi). Today, it is over 10-feet tall and has multiple arms. Since then, I have bought more eight-inchers, and made multiple cuttings. This cactus seems like a perfect fit for my xeriscape, but is it right for you? Read about the organ pipe cactus […]
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The ponytail palm (Beaucarnea recurvata) is a versatile, hardy, and drought-tolerant plant that is perfect for your drought-tolerant landscape or inside your home. However, despite being called a palm, this plant is actually a succulent! It has a unique, tropical appearance, and can eventually become an attractive focal point in your design. So, here are
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The ponytail palm (Beaucarnea recurvata) is one of the easiest, most hardy houseplants to grow. And if you live in USDA growing zones 9b-to-11, you can also grow this unique-looking plant outdoors! That all sounds good, but there must be a catch! Let’s discuss the ponytail palm pros and cons, and then you can decide
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I think the trailing lantana (Lantana montevidensis) looks great in my drought-tolerant, southwestern landscape. The purple-blue flowers contrast nicely with other taller plants, and the plant is able to survive extremely hot summer temps! Here are my trailing lantana pros and cons—check them out before you buy! My experiences with trailing lantana… This is one
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Weber’s agave (Agave weberi) is one of my favorite succulents growing in my xeriscape. It has lovely blue-green leaves that undulate with a beckoning wave-like design. But, is this attractive agave the right choice for your xeriscape? Read the Weber’s agave pros and cons to make an informed decision. My experiences with Weber’s agave Years
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One of my favorite agaves is the variegated century plant (Agave americana ‘Marginata’), sometimes sold as the striped century plant. In my opinion, its variegated colors and striking shape make it a standout focal point in any landscape. Unfortunately, I have found it to be difficult to keep alive! Here’s what my experience has taught
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The Peruvian apple cactus (cereus repandus) can grow large and make a striking visual statement in your landscape. I have one in my xeriscape, and it flowers and produces fruit every year. But, will this cactus work in your landscape? Read about the Peruvian apple cactus pros and cons, and decide for yourself! Peruvian apple
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There are hundreds of aloe plants that are very easy to grow, but today I’m focusing on the easy to grow aloe vera species named Aloe barbadensis Miller. It is one of the few aloes that I can grow outside, year-round, in our extreme climate of southern Arizona. So, here’s how to grow aloe vera!
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The soaptree yucca (Yucca elata) is another evocative icon of the southwestern United States. Just like the iconic saguaro cactus, the soaptree yucca conjures up images of determination and survival in the most difficult, unforgiving conditions. But does the soaptree yucca belong in your landscape? Let’s discuss the soaptree yucca pros and cons. But first,
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The Red Yucca (Hesperaloe parviflora ) was one of the first plants that caught my eye when I moved to the southwestern United States. The almost fluorescent pinkish-red flowers and the long stalks made me look twice. And I noticed that the hummingbirds loved them, too. As an arid gardener, you should consider adding the
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