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The Best Native Arizona Plants for a Water-Smart Landscape

  • VerdeValleyNursery
  • 6 days ago
  • 2 min read

With rising temperatures and water restrictions across the Valley, more Arizona homeowners are switching to native, low-water landscaping. Native plants aren’t just beautiful — they’re naturally adapted to our climate, require less maintenance, and help support local wildlife.


If you're ready to make your yard more water-smart, here are the best native Arizona plants to add to your landscape.


Native Shrubs That Thrive With Minimal Water


These shrubs stay green year-round and add structure to any yard:


  • Brittlebush

  • Chuparosa

  • Creosote Bush

  • Fairy Duster (Baja & Pink)

  • Turpentine Bush


All are low-care, bloom beautifully, and attract hummingbirds.


Red fairy duster shrub blooming in a desert landscape at a Fountain Hills Arizona nursery

Native Trees Perfect for Shade & Privacy


Arizona natives offer reliable shade without the mess or high water needs.


Best picks:


  • Palo Verde (Desert Museum, Blue Palo Verde)

  • Mesquite

  • Ironwood

  • Netleaf Hackberry


Planting native trees in fall helps them root quickly and thrive long-term.


Palo Verde tree providing shade in an Arizona yard, native plant sold at local Fountain Hills nursery

Cactus & Succulents That Love Desert Conditions


Native cactus bring instant desert style and require almost no maintenance.


Top choices:


  • Saguaro (nursery-grown only)

  • Fishhook Barrel

  • Organ Pipe Cactus

  • Hedgehog Cactus

  • Prickly Pear


These thrive in full sun and little water.


Purple prickly pear cactus growing in a drought-tolerant Arizona garden

Groundcovers for a Natural Desert Look


Replace grass with:


  • Trailing Rosemary

  • Desert Ruellia

  • Lantana (Arizona-approved varieties)


These reduce water use while adding color and pollinator support.


Lantana used as low-water groundcover in an Arizona landscape

Why Choose Native Plants?


Native plants offer:


  • Lower water bills

  • Less maintenance

  • Better drought tolerance

  • Improved soil health

  • More biodiversity in your yard


They’re the most sustainable option for Arizona landscapes.


Shop Native Plants at Verde Valley Nursery


We carry a wide range of native shrubs, cactus, trees, and groundcovers perfect for water-smart landscaping. Visit us in Fountain Hills or call 480-838-8131 for help choosing the right plants for your yard.

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