Common name:Ocotillo
Botanical name:Fouquieria splendens
Deciduous succulent grows at a moderate rate to 12' x 10'. Slender spined branches ascend from a common base. Medium green leaves appear when there is ample moisture. Drought deciduous. In spring, spiky clusters of red orange flowers appear. Too much water can kill this plant. Good drainage is important. Accepts full fun. Striking silhouette. Attracts hummingbirds. Native to Sonoran, Chihuahuan and Mojave Deserts.
Common name:Purple Fountain Grass
Botanical name:Pennisetum setaceum 'Rubrum'
This grass will reach 6' high and has deciduous, purplish/red leaves with clusters of purple flowers that appear in summer and fall. Cut back hard in the winter to avoid frost damage and to allow vibrant new growth in the spring.
Common name:Anthony Waterer Spirea
Botanical name:Spiraea japonica 'Anthony Waterer'
This 'Anthony Waterer' is a broad shrub, growing 2'-3' with a flattop and dark, blue green leaves. The immature growth is a pinkish red color. From summer until early fall, the flowers are a deep carmine pink color. The pink color of the shrub's flowers makes a nice focal point, and the plant provides structure to a perennial border. It is presented well around lilacs.
Designer:
Photographer: GardenSoft
Incorporate compost 6" into your soil to retain water, reduce compaction, feed earthworms, and provide valuable nutrients to your plants.
Group plants according to their water needs.
Creating separate zones for drought-tolerant plants, medium water-use plants, and water-thirsty grass will help prevent overwatering.
Attract, or buy beneficial insects such as ladybugs and lacewings to control pest outbreaks in your garden.