Cottonwood
A large, fast-growing shade tree with triangular leaves, deeply furrowed bark, and golden fall color. Eastern cottonwood requires abundant moisture and ample space in Phoenix; it is not a low-water desert tree. Special Features Rapid shade production, rustling foliage, golden-yellow fall color, and wildlife habitat. Female trees release cottony seeds. Problems & Solutions Aggressive roots […]
Eastern Redbud Tree
Small ornamental tree native to eastern North America, with heart-shaped leaves and abundant spring flowers. Marginal in Phoenix: extreme summer heat, aridity, and alkaline soils can cause chronic stress despite suitable winter hardiness. Special Features Early flowers support bees; heart-shaped foliage, branching structure, and flowers on older wood provide ornamental interest. Problems & Solutions Heat […]
Wonderful Pomegranate
A heat-tolerant fruiting shrub or small tree with showy orange-red flowers and large, red pomegranates containing sweet-tart, deep-red arils. ‘Wonderful’ performs well in Phoenix gardens. Special Features Self-fruitful; only one plant is needed for fruit. Edible fruit, ornamental flowers, heat tolerance, and drought tolerance once established. Problems & Solutions Fruit splitting (maintain even soil moisture […]