As seasons change, it is a good time to search for the perfect plant to liven up the landscape. Some options, even cactus, appreciate shady conditions out of the hot summer sun. Following are a few choices for such locations.
Claret cup cactus, a member of the hedgehog family, each spring is one of the earliest cacti to bloom. The many brilliant coral-red flowers are clustered on this columnar cactus, which then produce tasty, edible fruits.
Pinecone cactus, also called sprucecone, is a unique South American native that prefers partial shade. This slow-growing succulent matures at 24” high, and without spines, can be safely touched.
Torch cactus families include many colors of night-blooming, oversized, bright flowers blooming several times from spring through summer. These plants prefer filtered-to-medium shade, such as that found beneath mesquite or acacia trees.
Green spider agave, although not a cactus, has soft-leafed, graceful, urn-like leaves helping to reduce the prickly atmosphere of many desert plants. Drought tolerant and cold hardy, this plant produces numerous offspring closeby, much like a mother hen gathering and protecting her baby chicks.
When selecting plants, keep in mind that those with green foliage generally prefer a shady location, whereas those with blue-gray leaves grow better a sunny spot. Additionally, horticulturists teach that the toughest location for plants is the north side of the house which has no winter sun but scalding summer sun!
Mary Kidnocker is a University of Arizona Master Gardener who lives in the Green Valley area.
Discuss the news on NABUR, a place to have local conversations The Neighborhood Alliance for Better Understanding and Respect ✔ A site just for our local community ✔ Focused on facts, not misinformation ✔ Free for everyone
