Cape Aloe
A bold, tree-like South African aloe with thick, spiny leaves forming a large rosette atop a stout trunk; also called Cape aloe or bitter aloe. Special Features Architectural form; drought tolerant once established; nectar-rich flowers attract hummingbirds and other pollinators. Problems & Solutions Root and crown rot in wet soil: ensure excellent drainage and avoid […]
Flat Flowered Aloe
A large, sculptural South African aloe with thick, gray-green leaves armed with reddish-brown teeth and surface spines; mature plants develop a stout trunk. Special Features Dramatic spiny foliage, distinctive branched flower displays, strong drought tolerance, and nectar-rich blooms that attract hummingbirds and bees. Problems & Solutions Root rot in wet soil (improve drainage and avoid […]
CAM JAP NUCCIO’S PEARL
Camellia japonica ‘Nuccio’s Pearl’ is an evergreen shrub with glossy foliage and elegant white flowers edged in pink. It is challenging in Phoenix and requires a cool, sheltered microclimate and acidic soil. Special Features Refined bicolor flowers, glossy year-round foliage, and excellent blooms for cutting or floating in bowls. Not heat- or drought-tolerant under Phoenix […]
CAM JAP NUCCIO’S BELLA ROSSA
Camellia japonica ‘Nuccio’s Bella Rossa’ is an evergreen shrub with glossy foliage and richly layered red flowers. A challenging plant in Phoenix, it needs a cool, sheltered microclimate and carefully managed soil and water. Special Features Elegant formal-double flowers, glossy year-round foliage, and attractive cut blooms. Not drought tolerant or reliably adapted to Phoenix summer […]
Shoestring Acacia
A graceful Australian desert tree with long, narrow, shoestring-like foliage and an airy, weeping canopy; well adapted to Phoenix heat. Special Features Thornless; heat and drought tolerant; provides filtered shade. Narrow, pendulous foliage adds movement and soft texture. Problems & Solutions Poor drainage and excessive irrigation can cause root problems; allow drying between deep waterings. […]