Xerophytic Shrubs

Bird-of-Paradise

• There are three types of desert-friendly bird-of-paradise plants, each of which are widely used in xeriscaping. The yellow bird-of-paradise (caesalpinia gilliesii) is a full sun, low water plant that produces yellow flowers with red stamens. It reaches approximately 6 feet in height with a 5-foot spread and will bloom from spring to fall. Plants of this variety do not tolerate cold and thrive throughout zones nine and 10. Additional xerophytic varieties include the Mexican bird-of-paradise (Caesalpinia Mexicana), which reaches as tall as 10 feet and may be pruned into the shape of a small tree. The red bird-of-paradise (Caesalpinia pulcherrima) is a 6 foot by 6 foot shrub that produces vibrant orange and yellow flowers. All three varieties produce little debris, making them easy to care for, and will attract butterflies and hummingbirds.

Fairy Duster

• Fairy duster plants are southwestern natives that produce vibrant flowers and deep green foliage. The Baja fairy duster (Calliandra californica ) is a shrub that reaches a maximum of 5 feet in height and has an equal spread. It produces bright red powderpuff flowers that open in spring and fall. Growers should provide an area with full sun, moderate water and slightly acidic soil. An additional option is the pink fairy duster (Calliandra eriophylla), which produces flowers similar to the Baja, but in a more subtle shade of pink. An area with full sun, very little water and slightly acidic soil is best. Both plants will be attractive to hummingbirds and butterflies, produce very little litter and almost no allergens.

Daleas

• The black dalea (Dalea frutescens) is a desert native with a semi-evergreen growth habit. It produces clusters of rose-colored flowers in fall and early winter and maintains medium green foliage year round. Growers should provide an area with full sun and low water. Once established, the black dalea reaches as tall as 3 feet with a 4-foot spread. The bush dalea (Dalea pulchra) reaches a maximum height of 4 feet and produces clusters of pale purple flowers from winter to spring. It is a desert native that requires full sun and little water, ideal for xeriscaping. A third option is the weeping dalea (Dalea versicolor v. sessilis), which will do well in full sun or partial shade, produces no allergens and little litter. Each of these plants requires well-drained soil and will attract birds, bees and butterflies.

Other Options

• Growers looking to accent a desert-friendly landscape with shrubbery have dozens of options to choose from. Look for shrubs that lack standard lush foliage, and instead have small, waxy leaves or spiny foliage. These plants will require the least amount of water and will thrive in sun. Sages, desert lavender, myrtle (Myrtus communis) and superstition mallow (Abutilon palmeri ) are just a few of the options.