5 Tropical Plants that Grow in the Desert
The Arizona desert is a challenging place for tropical plants to grow. The dry heat and low water levels make for a harsh climate for most tropical plants. However, the lush, colorful, exotic landscape is still a very desirable backyard look. Here are 5 Tropical Plants that Grow in the Desert that you can use to create your tropical landscape, even in Arizona.
Torch Glow Bougainvillea
The Torch Glow Bougainvillea is a cleaner version of the bougainvillea family. Most people love the color, but hate the mess, especially with a pool, that bougainvilleas make. However, the Torch Glow flowers grow off the tips like a tiki torch and are much cleaner. The Torch Glow Bougainvillea needs about 5-6 feet of planting space and shouldn’t be planted directly next to walking paths because they have thorns.
Lantana
Lantana is a plant that comes from Florida but acclimates well here in the desert. They come in a variety of great color options and can be used as both a training ground cover or hedge shrub. Use the lantana as a spot-up plant to add color.
Ruellia Brittoniana (Common Ruellia)
The Ruellia Brittoniana is a plant from the Baja region of Mexico. This colorful, purple hibiscus looking flower is a hummingbird attractor. For the best look, trim back the plant to encourage inner growth. The Ruellia Brittoniana will be full of purple flowers and can add to the exotic nature of a tropical desert backyard.
Agave Desmettiana
This succulent works very well as a structured piece mixed in with other flower plantings. Its tips curve so it plays that tropical look. We suggest making it a centerpiece behind a boulder. Try not to put it next to walkways as it does have spikes.
Chaste Monk Pepper Tree
The Chaste Monk Pepper Tree is a multi-trunk tree that has the same look as a crape myrtle tree, but It can handle the desert heat. They are deciduous (drop leaves in the winter) but are known for their purple coneflowers in late spring and summer. The Chaste Monk Pepper Tree is a great patio tree, but due to its growth pattern “V”, the proper placement is important.
Choose Wildflower Desert Design as Your Backyard Design Professional
We hope you feel more confident in choosing your tropical plants. If you want to bring your landscaping dreams to life, we can help by creating a professional landscape design and install plan.
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For more questions about your landscaping needs, contact us at Wildflower Desert Design. Call us today for a FREE consultation!