"Desert succulents are so inherently architectural, they seem custom-made for distinctive pots," says Jane Evans, co-owner of Plants for the Southwest in Tucson, Ariz.

Evans loves the  Agave ocahui, ensconced in a container handcrafted by Tucson artist Jan Bell, who fired the clay with a copper carbonate stain. This agave will live contentedly in its pot for several years, says Evans, and will maintain its neatly symmetrical shape better here than if planted in the ground.

Look for artisan pots at specialty nurseries like Plants for the Southwest (520/628-8773) or at craft fairs.