Southwestern Deserts
April, 2004
Regional Report
Shows & Events
Cactus Show & Sale
You'll find an unusual array of specimens grown by growers and hobbyists at the Cactus Show and Sale, April 16 to 18, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Desert Botanical Garden in Phoenix. It's sponsored by the Central Arizona Cactus and Succulent Society. Show is free with Garden admission: Adults $9, Seniors $8, Students $5; Children $4, Under 3 free. For more information, visit: http://www.centralarizonacactus.org
Favorite or New Plant
Aloysia gratissima
Bee brush (Aloysia gratissima) is one of the most fragrant shrubs for desert landscapes. Small white flowers bloom from spring to fall. It does have thorns, and the flowers attract bees, so don't plant it next to patios or high-traffic areas. However, it is incredibly tough and survives on minimal water. It displays a somewhat rangy growth pattern that reaches 6 feet tall and wide. Native to the Chihuahuan Desert, it's cold hardy to 15 degrees.
