Contents - Los Cabos Magazine

Water is a precious commodity in semi-arid Los Cabos. A short annual rainy season, followed by many dry months, means that plants receive no water except what is artificially supplied. Fortunately, there are many fine, native plants that will thrive with little or no water during the normal dry season. Immense possibilities exist to obtain a beautiful garden, without going against the ecology of the area, as well as respecting the need to conserve water. With some inspiration, judgment, and good taste, you will see the benefits of using native plants that require little or no water and will not damage our eco-system.

One of the largest and most impressive native plants, reaching heights of up to 40 feet, is the cordon, or elephant cactus (Pachycereus pringlei). These appropriately named plants, bear beautiful flowers, are very slow growing, and can stay pot-sized or garden-size for many years.

We would be remiss if we didn’t suggest the elephant tree (Bursera microphylla). This plant’s short, stout, tapered trunks and branches are reminiscent of an elephant’s legs and trunks, hence the name. Growing to a height of only 10 feet, they can be very exotic in the right spot, especially with indirect lighting.

There are numerous species of yucca that would fit well into your desert garden, the most common being the schidigera. This plant needs sun and perfect drainage, and can last many months without water. It will honor you with creamy or purple-tinted flowers in two-foot clusters. We must also mention the many variations of agaves. These succulents have large, fleshy strap-shaped leaves. Be conscious of the fact that flowering of agaves may not occur for several years. After flowering, the foliage dies, leaving behind plantlets from which new plants will develop. Agaves are drought-resistant and very handsome in containers.

It is difficult to generalize about any plant family as large and widespread as palms. Palms adapt very well to the soil in Southern Baja and prosper without much care. They tolerate being transplanted and can be planted in groups or lined up. One palm that is aesthetically appreciated is the Mexican blue palm (Brahea armata). It grows slowly, up to 40 feet, with silvery blue leaves. It is hardy and takes drought, heat and wind. The Washingtonia robusta, commonly known as the Mexican fan palm, with its fan-shaped leaves,
is also very popular.

The palo blanco (Acacia willardiana) and the Mexican palo verde (Parkinsonia aculeate) are two trees noted for their beautiful characteristics. These deciduous trees grow rapidly at first, then slowly, eventually reaching 15 to 30 feet high and wide. With their colorful bark, spiny twigs, and vivid blossoms, these trees create a picturesque form. They tolerate alkaline soil and are very drought tolerant. As a shade tree, they filter sun, rather than blocking it. Thorns and sparse foliage rule it out of tailored gardens, but these plants are wonderful in landscapes.

The evergreen and deciduous plumeria with its open, gaunt character, thick branches, and leathery, pointed leaves can be grown as a shrub or trained as a small tree. Clustered flowers are large, showy, waxy and very fragrant. They are easy to grow from cuttings and do not like wet soil. Another showy and prominent evergreen shrub to consider for its luxuriant foliage is the Baja Fairy Duster (Calliandra californica). Flower clusters show pink to red stamens in fluffy balls. They love the sun and warmth, are very drought resistant, and attract hummingbirds.

The blue hibiscus (Alyogyne huegelii) grows well in dry, warm locations with full sun and produces lilac blue flowers with glossy petals. Another evergreen shrub you may wish to consider using is the Texas Ranger (Leucophyllum frutescens). Its silvery foliage does well in desert areas, taking any degree of heat and wind. In fact, it needs the heat to produce its rose purple, bell-shaped flowers. Use as a round-headed gray mass, a clipped hedge, or in mixed dry plantings. Fountain grass (Pennisetum setaceum ssp. cupreum) can be used as a focal point in low ground covers where it will grow to four feet. Arching leaves and stems tipped with fuzzy spikes in coppery pink or purplish hues can be very striking. Use in any soil, with full sun and
enjoy its lovely plumes.

Once you know how to organize your plants, the final result is extraordinary. By teaming up nature with water-wise landscapes, you can live in harmony with our desert surroundings. There are professionals that can assist in this endeavor, such as Vivero Los Cabos (624) 142-1380 and Los Cabos Landscape Architecture (624) 146-9624.