California Pepper Tree
A large, graceful shade tree native to South America, with feathery, aromatic foliage, weeping branches, and clusters of pink-red, peppercorn-like fruit on female trees. Special Features Heat and drought tolerant once established; picturesque weeping canopy, aromatic leaves, ornamental fruit, and textured bark. Problems & Solutions Large surface roots can lift paving; plant well away from […]
Canary Island Palm
A stately palm native to the Canary Islands, with a massive trunk and a dense crown of long, arching, featherlike fronds. Special Features Bold tropical appearance; tolerates heat, some drought, and brief freezes. Female trees produce clusters of small orange-yellow dates when pollinated. Problems & Solutions Susceptible to Fusarium wilt; use disinfected pruning tools and […]
Hope Philodendron Selloum
A tropical, self-heading philodendron with large, glossy, deeply lobed leaves. ‘Hope’ forms a dense, architectural clump and needs a sheltered location in Phoenix. Special Features Bold tropical foliage; more compact than standard tree philodendron; suited to shaded courtyards and large containers. Contains calcium oxalate crystals that are toxic if chewed by people or pets. Problems […]
African Sumac
A heat-tolerant South African shade tree with a rounded canopy, gracefully drooping branches, and narrow leaflets grouped in threes. Special Features Excellent heat and drought tolerance; provides shade, wind protection, and fruit for birds. Problems & Solutions Can reseed aggressively and produce root suckers; remove unwanted seedlings and suckers promptly. Develops weak branch attachments without […]