The Right Ornamental Plants and Flowers Will Attract Beautiful Wildlife Species That Keep Landscapes Healthy and Thriving

Exist many arid desert regions in the world, but the Sonoran Desert in North America is unique due to the region’s diverse plant life and animal species. Most desert landscapes around the globe contain only small patches of vegetation and, therefore, very few animal species. However, the Sonoran Desert supports more than 2,000 native plant species and a vast array of wildlife. The Sonoran Desert’s ecological diversity is the product of millions of years of mutually beneficial interactions between plants and animals in the region. In order to maintain the Sonoran Desert’s rich ecosystem, many Arizona residents prefer to landscape their properties with a variety of native plants that provide sustenance to the region’s native wildlife and vice-versa. For example, rapid urbanization has robbed many insects of the plants they need for sustenance, and as a result, many ecologically essential insect species are now nearing extinction. The consequent decline of bee and wasp species has caused the plants they pollinate to die-off as well. In response to this worrying cycle, many people are cultivating landscapes that contain flowers and ornamental plants that promote the health of native wildlife, such as birds and butterflies. Luckily, residents of Arizona have plenty of attractive native plant species to choose from in order to build a unique and original landscape.

Arizona is an ideal location for building a picturesque landscape. Native plant species in the region do not require much water in order to thrive, and therefore, even the plushest landscape designs can thrive without much maintenance. When it comes to animal pollinators most landscapers would prefer to cultivate flowers that attract beautiful butterflies or birds as opposed to flowers that invite unsightly bats. Flower species like the desert marigold, the desert milkweed, and the desert senna each attract a variety of striking butterfly species onto properties. Unless a landscaper happens to be a bat enthusiast, it may be wise to avoid certain cactus species, particularly Saguaros, agave, and organ pipe cactuses. Residents who enjoy bird-watching should consider vibrant landscape plants like the desert willow, ocotillo, penstemon, and fairy duster. These four plants attract colorful hummingbird pollinators that are abundant in Arizona.

Do you worry about potential insect pest issues that may pose a threat to your landscape plants?