Creating an English Garden with Arizona Native Plants

Native Plants for Northern Central Arizona

Your selections—Machaeranthera (tansy aster), Mexican Gold Poppy (Eschscholzia mexicana), and Penstemon species—are excellent choices for a native wildflower garden. They are adapted to the region's climate, soils, and pollinators.

Designing an "English Style" with Natives

• Layering: Combine shrubs (e.g., Fallugia paradoxa - Apache plume, Ericameria nauseosa - rabbitbrush) with perennials and annuals.
• Succession of bloom: Select species flowering spring through fall.
• Informal drifts: Plant in groups of 3–5 for naturalistic effect.
• Hardscaping: Use local stone for paths, walls to complement the plants.

Expert Resources

Since my expertise is houseplants, I recommend consulting:

• University of Arizona Cooperative Extension – Master Gardener program, native plant lists.
• Arizona Native Plant Society – Chapter meetings, plant sales, expertise.
• Local nurseries specializing in natives – They know what thrives in your microclimate.
• AllExperts Perennials category – For design and perennial-specific advice.

Good luck with your beautiful project!