Arizona rosewood

Plant Type: evergreen shrub/tree
Plant Height: 10–20 feet
Spread: 8–12 feet
Flower Color: white clusters
Sun Exposure: Full sun

Arizona Rosewood (Vaquelinia californica): Durable Evergreen with Year-Round Appeal

Arizona Rosewood is a large evergreen shrub or small tree native to the deserts of Arizona and northern Mexico. Known for its dense, glossy green foliage, clusters of white flowers, and durability in harsh conditions, it’s an outstanding plant for hedges, screens, and low-water landscapes.

Key Features of Arizona Rosewood

• Evergreen Foliage: Narrow, leathery green leaves remain attractive year-round.
• Seasonal Flowers: Small clusters of white blooms appear in spring and early summer.
• Drought & Heat Tolerant: Thrives in full sun with very little supplemental water once established.
• Versatile Form: Can be grown as a large shrub, informal hedge, or trained into a small tree.

Growing and Care Tips

Arizona Rosewood is slow-growing but extremely hardy and long-lived.

Soil: Prefers sandy or rocky, well-draining soils. Avoid heavy clay unless amended.
Water: Moderate during establishment; once mature, water every 3–4 weeks in summer.
Fertilizer: Rarely required; a light feeding in spring may promote growth.
Pruning: Minimal pruning required—trim lightly to shape or control size.

Landscaping Uses

• Hedges & Screens: Dense foliage makes it ideal for privacy plantings.
• Accent Plant: Works as a specimen shrub or small tree in xeriscapes.
• Wildlife Value: Provides cover for birds and habitat for desert wildlife.
• Low-Water Gardens: Excellent for Arizona landscapes with little irrigation.

Summary

Arizona Rosewood is a rugged, reliable evergreen that delivers beauty, structure, and drought resistance. With its clean foliage, seasonal blooms, and long lifespan, it’s one of the best choices for Arizona homeowners looking for a durable, low-maintenance landscape plant.

Three Timbers Installation Guide (Feel Free to Follow): Arizona Rosewood

Planting Guide:

Location: Full sun for best growth.
Soil: Well-draining sandy or rocky soils.
Spacing: Space 8–12 feet apart for hedges or screen plantings.
Planting Depth: Keep crown level with surrounding soil.
Support: Not required—plants naturally develop a sturdy form.

Watering Guide:

Watering After Planting:

• Initial Watering: Deep water after planting.
• Frequency: Every 4–5 days for first 2–3 weeks.
• Watering Amount: Enough to soak soil 8–10 inches deep.

When is the Plant Established?

• Typically after 6–12 months of consistent watering.

Watering Once Established:

• Summer: Deep water every 3–4 weeks.
• Winter: Water every 6–8 weeks if dry.

Drip Irrigation Setup:

Placement of Emitters: Position 2 emitters 12–18 inches from base.
Flow Rate: 1–2 gallons per hour.
Number of Emitters: Two for younger shrubs; increase to 3–4 for mature trees.
Adjusting Frequency: Increase during extreme summer heat; reduce in cooler months.

General Watering Tips for Arizona Rosewood:

• Soil Check: Allow top 3–4 inches to dry before watering again.
• Avoid Overwatering: Naturally drought-adapted; excessive irrigation can weaken growth.
• Mulch: Apply gravel mulch to help conserve moisture and match desert aesthetics.