DESERT PLANTS (Part1)

Cliff Maids

Cliff maids (Lewisia cotyledon) is an evergreen perennial that grows best in rocky mountainous areas. After a long bloom cycle, this plant produces edible, yet not tasty, fruit.

Zebra Cactus

A member of the Haworthia genus, the zebra cactus is, despite its name, actually a succulent not a cactus. Very small and slow growing, it has many white zebra-like stripes.

Mexican Hens and Chicks

Known for its dainty rosettes, this succulent can overgrow where it is planted as the ‘hen’ grows many ‘chick’ offsets, and so it must be pruned or beheaded to contain its growth.

Jade Plant

Thought to signify good luck, this South African evergreen makes a great house-warming present, as it is very hardy and easy to maintain. Growing this plant in direct sunlight will cause its edges to tinge red.

Aloe Vera

Known as the ‘first aid plant’, aloe vera has fleshy gray and green stalks that can be cut open and added to lotions for treating burns and rashes. However, studies have shown that it has no actual medicinal benefits.

Bunny Ear Cactus

Native to northern Mexico, this spineless cactus gets its name from the shape of its stems that resemble rabbit’s ears. Depending on the climate, this makes a great first plant for a novice gardener.

String of Pearls

This quirky, beaded succulent grows in long strands that can reach up to 2 feet (60cm) long. Due to its potential size, this succulent makes a great hanging plant.

Saguaro

Growing up to 40 feet (12 meters) tall, the saguaro is one of the largest cacti. With a lifespan of up to 150 years, it is illegal to harm a saguaro in Arizona state – so look and don’t touch!

Old Lady Cactus

This Mexican cactus has a flower crown and white spikes and takes up to ten years to grow to its full potential. The drought-tolerant old lady cactus propagates easily and makes a great introduction to cacti growing for beginners.

Cabbage Head Agave

A compact succulent, the cabbage head agave is armed with ‘teeth’ and overlapping leaves. Completely disease free, this plant is a pollinator’s gold mine, attracting all kinds of birds.