Desert Plants in Zone 7

Cacti

• Cacti are colorful, flowering plants that bloom in the spring and summer. They are perennials and many grow in the deserts of zone 7 that features both cold and very hot weather. Cacti are low-maintenance, require fast-draining soil and do not need any soil additives. The flame flower, Indian paintbrush and prairie zinnia are desert cacti that you can plant among companion plants for interesting garden.

High Desert Plants

• California's high desert areas are located in the foothills of the mountains. The topography brings cold nights and hot days. These are characteristics of zone 7 and plants chosen for these gardens are specific to the weather. California's high foothills bring dry, hot summers and cool, wet winters. The Ft. Huachuca agave survives in temperatures that dip to 12 degrees Fahrenheit, is heat tolerant and enjoys full sun. It grows at heights from 5,000 to 9,000 feet. The yucca brevifolia survives in full sun to light shade, grows best at heights of 3,500 to 6,500 feet and is found primarily in the Mojave Desert. The red yucca is another desert plant that can tolerate frost at 0 degrees F and hot summer sun.

Shrubs

• Green cloud Texas sage is hardy to zone 7 and is a native to Mexico's Chihuahuan desert. Springtime buds turn into purple flowers that bloom from summer to fall. Hot sun and little pruning will yield a showy zone 7 plant. The desert cassia is native to Australia and thrives in dry, arid regions. Bright yellow flowers appear in the spring and you should cut back the plant in late spring, after the flowers fade.

Flowers

• The foxtail lily has multiple spires blooming with pale pink flowers. The flowering occurs from the bottom of the spire and progresses to the top. It needs more care than desert cacti, but if tended, the blooms light up any zone 7 garden. Angel's trumpet, hardy begonias, passion flower and baby's breath also bloom in zone 7.