For those of us who have lived in the desert our entire lives, we know just how beautiful the "natural desert" looks. It's teaming with life and color with unique shapes and sizes. Many landscapes throughout Arizona have trees and shrubs that require a hefty amount of water. If you're looking to cut back on your water bill you can xeriscape your landscape, which is transforming it into one that requires a minimal amount of water. The good news with this is that you can bring that "natural desert" look to your landscape with just a few changes. Below are six unique trees and cacti that scream natural beauty.
Ocotillo
Native to the Southwestern United States, Ocotillos are amongst the easiest to grow and one of most recognized trees in Arizona. These unique specimens require little water and almost no maintenance. Leaves appear readily after spring and summer rains. Following the foliage, red tubular shaped blooms emerge in a spectacular show of color. Ocotillos are best used as a large accent, showy silhouette against block walls, building, or in a dramatic skyline. They can also be used as a living fence!
Golden Barrel
The most colorful and striking in appearance of all the barrel cacti, Golden Barrels bloom yellow mid to late spring adding to the color and interest of its globe shape. These bold accents look great in cactus gardens, containers and in mass plantings. Irrigate every month or two when established to keep these barrels deep green and bright gold.
Desert Spoon
Native to the high elevation deserts of the Southwest, the Desert Spoon is one the hardiest of succulents. Often used in mass plantings or in large accents, these low water plants firm cream to white blooms on a large stock in early summer. Mature plants form a trunk, which develops into a striking landscape specimen.
Agave 'Blue Glow'
This smaller type agave requires little water and full sun, and offers a unique blue color to the rosette with red and yellow margins along the leaf. 'Blue Glows" are best planted where natural or artificial light can back light these gorgeous specimens. This practice makes for a spectacular 'glow' along the margins. These Agave are best used in containers, cactus gardens, or in groupings.
Red Yucca
A standard in any desert landscape requiring color, the Red Yucca has long slender leaves form a fountain-like rosette while providing a nice structure to an area that needs a sculptural accent. Exceedingly tough and tolerant of heat and cold, Red Yuccas require little care or maintenance. Red to coral blooms form on tall stalks late spring through early fall. Plant in groups for mass effect or mix in with cactus or succulents for a beautiful addition of color. Be sure to irrigate once every two weeks when mature to maintain appearance.
When you visit one of your Moon Valley Nursery locations, be sure to speak with a nursery professional about your specific landscape needs and goals.