My Favorite Shrub
Arizona Yellow Bells
Tecoma stans v. angustata
Arizona Yellow Bells are large shrubs that will add vibrant color to your landscape and attract wildlife, especially hummingbirds. Native to Sonoran and Chihuahuan Deserts, Arizona Yellow Bells have 3-4 inch yellow trumpetlike clusters, semievergreen foliage, and a long bloom cycle from spring through fall. They can grow up to 12-15 feet high with an upright form. The shrubs’ dense foliage also provides a beautiful privacy screen. Although it can suffer some damage in a severe frost, it regrows quickly. Arizona Yellow Bells are a great way to bring color and birds to a backyard.
My Favorite Tree
Chilean Mesquite
Prosopis Chilensis
The Chilean Mesquite is a popular fast-growing semievergreen tree with dark green foliage and contrasting dark brown bark. When planted in full sun, it will quickly grow to a mature height of nearly 30 feet. Limiting water intake will slow the growth rate and reduce the possibility of windstorm damage. The Chilean Mesquite provides distinctive branch architecture, a dense canopy for shade, and a weeping growth pattern with willow-like branches. Thornless and seedless selections are available at your local nursery.
