Chilean MesquitePhoenix's Fast Growing Desert Shade Classic Chilean Mesquite Chilean Mesquite (Prosopis chilensis) is one of the most widely planted and beloved shade trees across the Phoenix Valley and for good reason. This elegant, fast growing tree produces a broad, weeping canopy of fine textured, bright green foliage that delivers exceptional dappled shade while remaining perfectly adapted to Arizona's extreme heat, drought, and alkaline soils. With fragrant

Whether you're designing a sleek modern landscape in Scottsdale

Its explosive starburst rosette of silvery-green

Plant trees 10–12 feet apart for a dense privacy row

Little Rev Flax Lily is an excellent pool-safe option for Phoenix backyards

For established plants

Spring (March–April) is the ideal planting window for citrus in Phoenix

Attribute Detail Scientific Name Echinocereus triglochidiatus Common Names Claret Cup

In its native South Africa

The pale blue-gray leaves actually help reflect sunlight

Once fully established (typically after 1–2 full growing seasons)

First year: Water every 3–5 days in summer

with dried papery blooms holding their gold color on the plant