Apache Plume

Plant Type: shrub
Plant Height: 3-6 feet
Spread: 4-8 feet
Flower Color: white
Sun Exposure: Full Sun

Description:

Apache Plume, scientifically known as Fallugia paradoxa, is a unique and attractive deciduous shrub native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. It is highly valued in water-wise and native plant gardens for its distinctive appearance, drought tolerance, and ability to thrive in challenging environments.

Growing to about 3 to 6 feet tall and spreading 4 to 8 feet wide, Apache Plume forms an open, airy structure with small, green, lobed leaves that provide a delicate texture to the landscape. From late spring to early fall, it produces single, white, rose-like flowers that are followed by distinctive, feathery, pink seed heads, resembling plumes. These plumes persist on the plant long after the flowers have faded, providing extended visual interest.

Adapted to full sun, Fallugia paradoxa thrives in well-draining soil and is exceptionally drought-tolerant once established, making it an excellent choice for xeriscaping, desert gardens, and naturalized areas. It can tolerate a range of soil types, including poor soils, as long as they are well-drained.

In landscaping, Apache Plume is often used as a specimen plant, in mixed borders, or as part of a native plant garden. Its unique flowering and seed heads make it a conversation piece, and its ability to attract pollinators such as bees adds to its ecological value.

Overall, Apache Plume is a low-maintenance and visually striking shrub, ideal for gardeners looking to add texture, color, and interest to dry, sunny areas. Its drought tolerance, ease of care, and distinctive appearance make it a favored choice for a variety of landscaping projects, especially those focused on sustainability and native plant use.

Three Timbers Installation Guide (Feel Free to Follow): Apache Plume

Planting Guide:

• Location: Full sun (at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily)
• Soil: Well-drained, sandy or loamy soil (tolerates alkaline and slightly acidic soils)
• Spacing: Space plants 3-4 feet apart to allow for mature growth and good airflow
• Planting Depth: Plant at the same depth as the root ball, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil surface
• Support: No staking required; Apache Plume is self-supporting and grows as a bushy shrub with spreading branches

Watering Guide:

Watering After Planting:

• Initial Watering: Water thoroughly immediately after planting to saturate the root ball and surrounding soil
• Frequency: Water every 2-3 days for the first 2 weeks to help establish the root system
• Watering Amount: Provide 1-1.5 inches of water per session to ensure deep watering around the root zone

When is the Plant Established?

• Timeframe: Apache Plume is considered established after 2-3 months, once the roots have spread into the surrounding soil and the plant begins to show steady new growth

Watering Once Established:

• Summer: Water every 7-10 days during the hotter months, especially during the growing season. Increase watering to every 5-7 days during extreme heat. Provide about 2 inches of water per session.
• Winter: Water every 3-4 weeks, depending on rainfall. Apache Plume is drought-tolerant once established, but it still benefits from occasional watering during dry winters.

General Watering Tips:

• Soil Check: Regularly check the soil moisture. Water when the top 2-3 inches of soil feel dry to the touch.
• Avoid Overwatering: Apache Plume is drought-tolerant and prefers well-drained soil. Overwatering can cause root rot.
• Mulch: Apply a thin layer of mulch around the base to help retain moisture, keep the roots cool, and reduce competition from weeds, but avoid piling mulch directly against the plant's stem.