Plant of the Month: July 2012

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Close-up of Apache Plume with Seeds

Close-up of Apache Plume with Seeds

Apache Plume

Fallugia paradoxa

Plant Form: Evergreen Shrub
Water Use: Very Low
Mature Size: 4-6’ tall & 5’ wide
Exposure: Full Sun
Bloom Time: April – June
Native to: So. Calif, SW U.S.
Hardiness: Cold Hardy to -10°F

Apache Plume is one of our showiest native desert shrubs. Rose-like, white flowers in spring produce eye-catching, silky pink seed plumes from May to December, said to resemble an Apache headdress. This fast-growing, semi-deciduous shrub with dark green leaves is extremely tolerant of heat and drought, and is an important erosion control plant. Apache Plume likes full sun but accepts part shade, and needs only occasional if any irrigation after it becomes established. Give this plant ample room—it doesn’t stay small for long.

Tagged: Apache Plume, California water-wise gardening, Drought-tolerant plants, erosion control plants, Heat-loving plants, low water use plants, native desert plants, southwest native plants, Water-wise landscaping, Water-Wise Plants, Xeriscape plants

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I am amazed every day at how much happens on our half-acre of High Desert property. Whether we are simply looking out the window at our bird feeders, working in our yard, or sitting on our deck watching the sunset, my husband and I get the biggest kick out of seeing the dynamics unfolding between our resident covey of a hundred quail, dozens of songbirds, rabbits, antelope ground squirrels, lizards, friendly snakes, occasional coyotes, bobcat, fox, and even hungry hawks.

It’s hard to believe how much activity can be packed into such a small yard when it has various levels of “living spaces,” simulating a multi-story hotel, creating homes galore in ground covers, branches, and canopies of plants. Added to the backdrop of a seasonal procession of color from flowering plants, fruiting shrubs and trees, the happenings in our yard provide continual cause for delight, surprise, inspiration, and celebration.

I hope you enjoy following the fascinating cycle of life that plays out in a yard dedicated to wildlife, water-wise native plants, and other delights of a hopeless plant lover.

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