Shamel Ash (48 Box)
Large, fast-growing evergreen-to-semi-evergreen ash widely used as a shade tree in desert landscapes. Produces dense, dark green foliage and tolerates Phoenix heat and alkaline soils. Needs ample space and deep irrigation for its expansive canopy and aggressive roots. Special Features Exceptional dense shade; tolerates reflected heat and urban conditions; fast canopy development for large properties […]
Shamel Ash
A large, fast-growing shade tree native to Mexico and Central America, with glossy compound leaves and a broad canopy. Also called evergreen ash; requires substantial irrigation in Phoenix. Special Features Rapid shade production, dense green foliage, and a broad canopy. Handles Phoenix heat with adequate irrigation but is not a low-water desert tree. Problems & […]
Shangri-La Mulberry
A low-chill, fruiting mulberry cultivar with large leaves and sweet, elongated, dark purple-black berries; well suited to warm climates with adequate irrigation. Special Features Self-fruitful; low winter-chill requirement; sweet edible fruit; productive at a young age; provides substantial summer shade. Problems & Solutions Fallen fruit stains paving and attracts birds and insects; plant away from […]
Sissoo Tree
Fast-growing shade tree native to the Indian subcontinent, with bright green, compound leaves and a broad canopy. Thrives in Phoenix heat but has aggressive roots that make it unsuitable for many residential yards. Special Features Rapid shade production; strong heat tolerance; drought tolerance once established; nitrogen-fixing legume with valuable rosewood timber. Problems & Solutions Aggressive […]
Smith Red Orange
An uncommon red-fleshed sweet orange cultivar with juicy, flavorful fruit and fragrant spring blossoms. Flesh coloration varies with growing conditions; cool winter nights encourage deeper red pigmentation. Special Features Unusual red-fleshed fruit for fresh eating and juice; fragrant flowers; glossy foliage. Self-fruitful, so a second citrus tree is not required. Problems & Solutions Sunburn: shade […]
Staghorn Cholla
A branching Sonoran Desert cactus with antler-like, jointed stems, prominent spines, and unusually variable flower colors. Special Features Exceptional heat and drought tolerance; sculptural branching; flowers attract native bees, and dense branches provide bird shelter. Problems & Solutions Root rot from excess moisture: improve drainage and avoid frequent irrigation. Sharp, barbed spines and detachable joints: […]
Sour Orange
Sour orange, also called bitter or Seville orange, is a thorny citrus tree with glossy leaves, fragrant blossoms, and thick-skinned, tart orange fruit used for marmalade, marinades, and preserves. Special Features Highly fragrant flowers attract pollinators; ornamental fruit is useful for cooking. Relatively cold-tolerant for citrus and well adapted to Phoenix heat with adequate irrigation. […]
Sugar Bush
A Southwestern native shrub with dense, leathery foliage, reddish twigs, and clusters of small flowers followed by sticky reddish fruit. Special Features Heat and drought tolerant once established; provides screening, erosion control, pollinator forage, and fruit for birds. Problems & Solutions Root rot in poorly drained or frequently watered soil (improve drainage and reduce irrigation); […]
Strawberry Hedgehog
A Sonoran Desert native cactus with clustered, ribbed green stems densely covered in spines, showy spring flowers, and edible strawberry-like fruit. Special Features Heat and drought tolerant; native wildlife value; attracts native bees; produces edible red fruit when pollinated. Problems & Solutions Root and stem rot from excess moisture: improve drainage and reduce irrigation. Sunburn […]
Star Ruby Semi-Dwarf Grapefruit
A semi-dwarf grapefruit with fragrant flowers and large, yellow fruit blushed pink, containing deeply red, juicy flesh and few seeds. Fruit has a sweet-tart flavor and typically ripens from winter into spring in Phoenix. Special Features Rich ruby-red flesh, few seeds, fragrant blossoms, and attractive edible fruit. Self-fertile; one tree can produce fruit. Problems & […]