Museum of Plants

Colorful Blossoms

Oleander

Oleanders, or Nerium oleander, are large, flowering shrubs that thrive with little care. They are heat and drought-tolerant once established. And they blossom in the summer. Early spring is the recommended time to schedule them to be trimmed and pruned.

Fragrance

Lavendar

Lavender grows surprisingly well in Las Cruces when planted in well-drained soil with plenty of sun. It adds fragrance, soft color, and pollinator activity to your landscape. Plant lavender in early spring, so the plant has time to establish before summer heat. Avoid overwatering, as desert soils that drain well help lavender thrive.

Desert Hardscape

Agave

Resembling an artichoke, this desert plant is also known as the Century plant. Agave grow a tall stalk that can grow to be around 30 feet tall upwards from its center. It's a great choice for rock gardens.

Attracts Hummingbirds

Penstemon (Beardtongue)

Penstemon is a native wildflower that does extremely well in Southern New Mexico. It produces tall spikes of colorful blooms that attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. These plants are well adapted to desert climates and add beautiful spring color to natural desert landscapes.

High Desert Classic

Prickly Pear Cactus

Prickly pear cactus is one of the most iconic desert plants in Las Cruces, and it thrives in hot, dry climates with plenty of sunlight. Prickly pear prefers well-drained, sandy or rocky soil and requires very little water once established, making it ideal for low-maintenance landscapes. Water deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out completely between watering to prevent root rot. Wearing gloves when handling is important due to its spines and tiny hair-like glochids, which can irritate the skin. Prune damaged or overgrown pads in spring or early summer to keep the plant healthy and encourage new growth.

Fragrance

Roses

Roses are one of the most popular flowering plants in Las Cruces yards, and early spring is the perfect time to plant them. Roses prefer well-drained soil and benefit from deep watering rather than frequent shallow watering. Adding mulch around the base helps keep moisture in the soil and protects roots from extreme temperatures. Prune roses in late winter or early spring to encourage strong growth and better flowering throughout the year.

High Desert Classic

Creosote Bush

Creosote bush is one of the most resilient native plants in desert landscapes like Las Cruces, and it thrives in full sun and extremely dry conditions. Creosote bush prefers well-drained, sandy or gravelly soil and requires very little water once established, making it ideal for xeriscaping and low-maintenance yards. Water sparingly and only during extended dry periods, as overwatering can harm the plant. Its small yellow flowers typically bloom after rain, and the plant is known for its distinctive earthy scent. Minimal pruning is needed, but occasional trimming can help maintain shape and remove dead branches.

Attracts Hummingbirds

Red Yucca

Red yucca is a hardy, drought-tolerant plant commonly used in desert landscapes like Las Cruces, and it produces tall spikes of coral-red flowers that attract hummingbirds in spring and summer. Red yucca thrives in full sun and prefers well-drained soil, making it a great choice for low-water, low-maintenance yards. Water deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out between watering to prevent root rot. Remove spent flower stalks and dead leaves as needed to keep the plant looking tidy and encourage continued blooming throughout the season.

Attracts Butterflies

Lantana

Lantana is a colorful, heat-loving plant that thrives in desert landscapes like Las Cruces, and it produces vibrant clusters of flowers that attract butterflies and pollinators from spring through fall. Lantana prefers full sun and well-drained soil, making it an excellent choice for low-water, low-maintenance yards. Water deeply but infrequently once established, as overwatering can reduce blooming and lead to root issues. Prune lantana in early spring to encourage bushy growth and more abundant flowers throughout the growing season.