MOSS ROSE (Portulaca grandiflora)
Best traits—A low-growing succulent-like annual, this plant stands up to the heat and bright light. Its long-lasting flowers, which open in the morning and close in the afternoon, are shaped like tiny roses. They come in single hues, including bright and pastel shades, as well as color mixes.
Growing tips—Water moderately and allow the soil to dry out between waterings. Blooms appear in late spring through late fall; to avoid weediness, remove plants from the ground after they have finished flowering.







JOHNNY-JUMP-UP (Viola tricolor)
Best traits—This herbaceous perennial puts out miniature pansylike blossoms in a purple, yellow and white combination. A profuse self-seeder (a trait that led to its common name Johnny-Jump-Up), it is ideal for bringing color into the low-desert garden in winter and spring.
Growing tips—Plant in sun to partial shade in rich soil. Remove spent blooms to prolong flowering. Although a perennial, it usually is treated as an annual in warmer climates. Deadhead, or cut off, spent blooms to prolong flowering.






CALENDULA (Calendula officinalis)
Best traits—Also known as pot marigold, this annual has aromatic leaves and produces daisylike flowers in bright shades of yellow and orange. Calendula is self-seeding and makes a long-lasting cut flower. When planted in masses, it offers striking color in the landscape. Dwarf varieties also are available.
Growing tips—This garden favorite can handle full sun and does best with regular to moderate watering. It is easy to grow from seed, which should be sown in fall in desert climates. Transplants do well from late fall through spring.






APTENIA ‘RED APPLE’ (Aptenia cordifolia)
Best traits—Often referred to as hearts and flowers, this hardy succulent with heart-shaped leaves blooms from spring through fall in colors ranging from bright red to pinkish-purple. A vigorous grower, it can be propagated from cuttings that usually take root in about three weeks.
Growing tips—Plant this perennial in full sun to light shade in well-draining soil. Water only when dry, except in summer when supplemental watering will preserve its lush appearance. Fertilizing is not necessary. Trim back when the plant gets leggy.