Landscape Plants for the Arizona Desert
Trees
Trees tend to be the “backbone” of the landscape since they are more prominent in scale, permanent, and visible year-round while bringing a variety of seedpods, flowers, and colors. Trees also provide shelter and food for birds and wildlife. Trees can help decrease heating and cooling costs for your home. Locate trees to shade your home’s east- and west-facing exposures during the summer. Deciduous trees allow sunlight into the house during the winter when branches are bare of leaves. Selecting the right tree for the right place is important. When considering their placement, be sure the mature tree will fit safely into your yard without interfering with overhead power lines, underground utilities, buildings or fences, and walkways.