Pinal County - Maricopa Master Gardeners at MAC

While the Maricopa Master Gardeners are out for June, be sure to check out the online offerings from the Pima County Master Gardeners! We will see everyone in July for the next Ask A Master Gardener presentation.

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Globe Mallow is a desert superstar. This hardy perennial sends up tall spikes covered in small, cup-shaped flowers, most commonly in this stunning apricot-orange, but also in pink, red, purple and white. It thrives in the hottest, driest spots of the garden and provides structure and soft color.

Blanketflowers are the ultimate "set it and forget it" bloomers for a sun-drenched garden. These perennials are famous for their daisy-like petals featuring a striking sunset gradient—typically rich red at the center fading into bright yellow tips. A note: these flowers are very hardy and will self seed.

Need reliable, low-water color? The Desert Marigold is a tough-as-nails perennial that loves the heat. Its bright yellow, daisy-like flowers bloom profusely in spring and summer, providing essential nectar for native bees. It loves full sun and gravelly soil.

When it rains, the Ocotillo wakes up! Most of the year, it looks like a collection of dry, spiny sticks. But after a good soak, it quickly covers itself in bright green leaves and tips them with stunning, fiery red-orange flowers. A true desert ephemeral that embraces the heat.

Looking for a stunning plant that also yields delicious treats? Meet the Roselle! 🌺 Known for its bright red calyces (often used in teas and jams), this plant is a beautiful and flavorful addition to any sunny garden. Its deep green leaves and purple stems create a lovely contrast, making it a feast for the eyes and the palate. Check out how vibrant it looks under the blazing sun!

Add some geometric perfection and a splash of color!

The Barrel Cactus is a classic desert plant. Its perfectly round shape and vibrant yellow spines look stunning when planted in clusters. They love the heat and require almost no attention once established.

And... did you know the fruit are edible, such a lovely lemon like flavor.

Need structural drama?

Agaves are the answer. Their striking, symmetrical forms bring an architectural element to any garden. This Agave americana (Century Plant) thrives in full sun and heat. Just give it space—it's a showstopper that commands attention.

Bougainvillea is the definition of desert spectacle. When other plants are stressing in the heat, this vigorous climber is just getting started, covering itself in papery, vibrant magenta bracts (which are often mistaken for flowers). It loves the heat, tolerates drought, and needs very little water once established. Plant it where it can climb and soak up the sun- be sure that the large thorns won't cause a problem where you plant this colorful vine.

Looking for a plant that works double duty?

Meet the Prickly Pear (Opuntia). Not only is it incredibly drought-tolerant and visually striking with its flat pads, but it also produces delicious fruit and edible pads (nopales). Perfect for adding texture and flavor to your desert garden!

And the number of recipes for prickly pears abound. What is your favorite?