Desert Marigold (Baileya multiradiata) – Bright yellow daisy-like flowers that thrive in full sun, grows 1–2 feet tall.

Penstemon (Penstemon spp.) – Tubular red or purple flowers attracting hummingbirds, prefers full sun, 1–3 feet tall.

Mexican Hat (Ratibida columnifera) – Unique red and yellow coneflower, grows best in full sun, 2–4 feet tall.

Red Yucca (Hesperaloe parviflora) – Arching spikes of red tubular flowers, thrives in full sun, grows 3–5 feet tall.

Desert Lupine (Lupinus arizonicus) – Purple spike-like flowers suited for sandy, sunny soils, grows 1–2 feet tall.

Creosote Bush (Larrea tridentata) – Iconic desert shrub with small yellow flowers and resinous leaves, thrives in full sun, grows 3–10 feet tall.

Desert Sage (Salvia dorrii) – Aromatic shrub with purple blooms attracting pollinators, prefers full sun, grows 1–3 feet tall.

Texas Ranger (Leucophyllum frutescens) – Silvery-leaved shrub with purple flowers after rainfall, grows best in full sun, 4–8 feet tall.

Hopbush (Dodonaea viscosa) – Evergreen shrub with red seed capsules and adaptable growth, thrives in full sun, reaches 6–10 feet tall.

Apache Plume (Fallugia paradoxa) – Delicate white flowers followed by feathery seed heads, prefers full sun, grows 3–5 feet tall.

Southwest gardens thrive with well-drained, sandy or rocky soil and plenty of full sun, as most desert-adapted plants require minimal shade. Watering should be deep but infrequent, allowing the soil to dry completely between sessions to prevent root rot. Mulching with gravel or small rocks helps retain moisture, reduce soil temperature, and suppress weeds in hot, arid conditions. Additionally, pruning dead or damaged branches in early spring encourages healthy growth.