POMEGRANATE
(Punica granatum)
Best traits—In August and September, birds flock to this easy-to-grow plant for the juice and seeds inside its dark-red fruit. An excellent landscape plant, it can be grown as a tree or shrub, or espaliered against a wall. In April, ruffled orange-red flowers appear; in fall its leaves turn bright yellow.
It is hardy to 10 degrees.
Growing tips—Plant in full sun to light shade. Water regularly (but deeply) to encourage fruit growth. Once established, little water is needed. The ‘Wonderful’ variety is recommended for the Phoenix area.
| |
|
| CANE CHOLLA
(Opuntia spinosior)
Best traits—With its spiny branches, this cactus (and other chollas) offers the perfect nesting spot for birds seeking shelter. A protected Arizona native, it produces a profusion of springtime flowers in magenta, red or yellow, which are followed by edible yellow fruits. Also referred to as walking stick cactus, it can be propagated from cuttings.
Growing tips—Plant in full sun to part shade, being careful not to handle with bare hands due to its spines. Instead, use tongs or thick gloves. Water weekly until rooted. Once established, water monthly, then every two weeks in summer. |
ARIZONA GRAPE
(Vitis arizonica)
Best traits—This deciduous grapevine—also known as canyon grape—is native to Arizona and thrives in the dry heat. The low-maintenance plant has heart-shaped leaves. In spring and summer, clusters of tiny flowers are followed by green grapes that ripen to a dark blue. Birds devour the juicy berries, which appear around June. The flavorful grapes can be used to make wine, jam and jellies.
Growing tips—Grow in full sun. Water regularly and fertilize during the growing season. Attach a trellis to a wall if the plant requires support. | |
 | | Photo courtesy of Boyce Thompson Arboretum |
|
| DESERT
HACKBERRY
(Celtis pallida)
Best traits—Extremely heat- and drought-tolerant, this shrublike tree provides shelter for birds in its massing of branches and food with its tasty orange berries. Desert hackberry looks like a small elm. In fall its leaves turn yellow; at maturity it produces attractive bark. It is long-lived, low-maintenance, tolerates strong winds, and is hardy to 10 degrees.
Growing tips—Plant in full or reflected sun to part shade in well-draining soil. This low-water-use tree does best with infrequent but regular watering. Little pruning is needed, except when shaping is desired. |
Other favorites:Blue palo verde, brittlebush, catclaw acacia, prickly pear, red barberry, red bird of paradise, sunflower, velvet mesquite