Little Leaf Cordia

Plant Type: evergreen shrub
Plant Height: 4–6 feet
Spread: 4–6 feet
Flower Color: white
Sun Exposure: Full sun

Little Leaf Cordia (Cordia parvifolia): Durable Desert Shrub with Year-Round Beauty

Little Leaf Cordia is a hardy, evergreen shrub native to the deserts of the southwestern U.S. and northern Mexico. It is prized for its small, glossy leaves, clean rounded shape, and long bloom season of delicate white flowers. Perfectly adapted to Arizona’s heat and arid conditions, this shrub offers both beauty and resilience.

Key Features of Little Leaf Cordia

• Extended Bloom Season: Produces small, white, star-shaped flowers from spring through fall, often blooming intermittently year-round.
• Compact Evergreen Growth: Naturally rounded form with small, leathery leaves that stay green even in extreme heat.
• Drought & Heat Tolerant: Thrives in hot, sunny conditions with minimal water once established.
• Low Maintenance: Naturally maintains shape, needing little pruning.

Growing and Care Tips

Little Leaf Cordia is ideal for sunny, exposed sites where low-water, low-care plants are needed.

Soil: Prefers well-draining sandy or rocky soils; avoid heavy clay unless amended for drainage.
Water: Regular deep watering during establishment; once mature, water every 2–4 weeks in summer.
Fertilizer: Not typically required; apply a balanced fertilizer in spring for faster growth if desired.
Pruning: Minimal; occasional shaping after flowering can maintain density.

Landscaping Uses

• Accent Shrub: Ideal for adding evergreen structure to xeriscapes.
• Low Hedge or Border: Works well as a low-maintenance boundary plant.
• Wildlife Garden: Attracts pollinators and provides cover for small birds.
• Mass Plantings: Creates uniform, heat-tolerant greenery in large spaces.

Summary

Little Leaf Cordia is a versatile, evergreen shrub that handles Arizona’s extreme climate with ease. Its long bloom season, drought resistance, and compact form make it a reliable choice for low-water landscapes.

Three Timbers Installation Guide (Feel Free to Follow): Little Leaf Cordia

Planting Guide:

Location: Full sun for best foliage color and flowering.
Soil: Well-draining sandy or rocky soils are preferred.
Spacing: Plant 4–6 feet apart to allow for mature spread.
Planting Depth: Keep the crown level with surrounding soil.
Support: Not needed—naturally sturdy growth.

Watering Guide:

Watering After Planting:

• Initial Watering: Water deeply after planting to saturate the root zone.
• Frequency: Every 3–4 days for the first 2–3 weeks.
• Watering Amount: Enough to moisten soil 8–10 inches deep.

When is the Plant Established?

• Typically after 2–3 months of consistent watering and visible new growth.

Watering Once Established:

• Summer: Deep water every 14–21 days during heat and drought.
• Winter: Water every 4–6 weeks if there is no rainfall.

Drip Irrigation Setup:

Placement of Emitters: Position 1 emitter 12–18 inches from the base.
Flow Rate: 1 gallon per hour.
Number of Emitters: One for young plants; two for mature shrubs.
Adjusting Frequency: Increase in extreme heat; reduce in cool months.

General Watering Tips for Little Leaf Cordia:

• Soil Check: Let top 3–4 inches dry before watering again.
• Avoid Overwatering: Excess moisture can cause root issues.
• Mulch: Use gravel mulch to help retain moisture and reduce weeds without trapping humidity.