Ocotillo

Ocotillo (Fouquieria splendens) – A Striking, Low-Maintenance Addition to Phoenix Landscapes

The Ocotillo plant, scientifically known as Fouquieria splendens, is a captivating desert native renowned for its unique structure and vibrant blooms. Found across the Southwestern United States and Northern Mexico, this plant adds an architectural touch to any desert landscape.

Unique Structure and Seasonal Leaves

The Ocotillo grows between 6 to 20 feet tall and spreads 5 to 10 feet wide, forming a cluster of spiny, upright stems that resemble a natural fence or desert sculpture. Its stems are typically bare but sprout lush, green leaves following rain, creating a striking transformation.

Stunning Spring Blooms

One of the Ocotillo’s standout features is its bright red to orange flowers that bloom at the tips of its stems in spring, often re-blooming after summer rains. These tubular flowers attract hummingbirds and nectar-seeking birds, adding both color and movement to your garden.

Ideal for Phoenix Climate

Thriving in full sun and well-draining soil, Ocotillo is exceptionally drought-tolerant, making it a great choice for xeriscaping in Phoenix. With minimal water needs, it is well-suited for rock gardens and other arid landscape designs.

Benefits of Adding Ocotillo to Your Phoenix Landscape:

• Dramatic vertical presence adds architectural interest to gardens.
• Drought-resistant and easy-care, perfect for desert conditions.
• Seasonal leaf growth provides visual variety.
• Attracts pollinators like hummingbirds and butterflies.
• Acts as a natural fence or garden divider due to its spiny stems.

Care and Maintenance

Ocotillo thrives in full sunlight with well-draining soil and requires little water, making it a fantastic low-maintenance plant. Plant it in an area that receives ample sunlight, and avoid overwatering, as this plant is highly adapted to arid environments.

Enhance Your Garden with the Ocotillo

Add an exotic, sculptural element to your Phoenix garden with the Ocotillo. Whether used as a focal point in a native plant garden, a natural fence, or a desert accent, Ocotillo is a stunning, low-maintenance choice. Its unique form, vibrant spring blooms, and adaptability make it a favorite among gardeners looking to create a dynamic and inviting outdoor space in the Phoenix Valley.

Three Timbers Installation Guide (Feel Free to Follow): Ocotillo

Planting Guide:

• Location: Full sun (at least 6 hours of direct sunlight for optimal growth)
• Soil: Well-drained, sandy or rocky soil (slightly acidic to neutral soil preferred)
• Spacing: Space plants 6-8 feet apart to accommodate their tall, upright growth
• 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: Ocotillo is a tall, multi-stemmed plant that requires no staking but may need support in the first year while establishing

Watering Guide:

Watering After Planting:

• Initial Watering: Water thoroughly immediately after planting to saturate the root ball and surrounding soil
• Frequency: Water every 5-6 days for the first 2-3 weeks to help establish the root system
• Watering Amount: Provide 1-1.5 inches of water per session for deep watering

When is the Plant Established?

• Timeframe: Ocotillo is considered established after 6-8 months when the roots have spread into the surrounding soil

Watering Once Established:

• Summer: Water every 14-21 days during the hotter months. If temperatures exceed 100°F, increase watering to every 10-14 days. Provide 2-3 inches of water per session.
• Winter: Water every 4-6 weeks during the cooler months, depending on rainfall.

Drip Irrigation Setup:

• Placement of Emitters: Place the drip emitters 18-24 inches away from the base of the plant for deep watering
• Flow Rate: Use emitters with a flow rate of 2-4 gallons per hour
• Number of Emitters: 2-3 emitters per plant for even watering distribution
• Adjusting Frequency: In summer, increase watering to every 10-14 days. In winter, reduce to every 4-6 weeks