Stoplights

Plant Type: evergreen succulent/perennial
Plant Height: 2–3 feet (foliage); 4–5 feet with bloom stalks
Spread: 2–3 feet
Flower Color: red with yellow tips
Sun Exposure: Full sun

‘Stoplights’ Hesperaloe (Hesperaloe x ‘Stoplights’): Bold, Two-Tone Color for Desert Gardens

‘Stoplights’ Hesperaloe is a striking hybrid variety that produces flower spikes loaded with vibrant red blooms tipped in bright yellow. Blooming from late spring through fall, this drought-tolerant beauty adds bold seasonal color to Arizona landscapes while attracting hummingbirds and other pollinators.

Key Features of ‘Stoplights’ Hesperaloe

• Two-Tone Blooms: Unique red flowers with glowing yellow tips for high-impact color.
• Evergreen Structure: Blue-green, arching leaves form a neat clump year-round.
• Heat & Drought Tolerant: Thrives in intense sun and dry conditions once established.
• Wildlife-Friendly: Nectar-rich flowers draw in hummingbirds and beneficial insects.

Growing and Care Tips

‘Stoplights’ is easy to maintain and highly adaptable to tough desert conditions.

Soil: Prefers well-draining sandy or rocky soil; amend clay to improve drainage.
Water: Water regularly during establishment; once mature, water deeply every 2–4 weeks in summer.
Fertilizer: Not required under normal conditions; an annual spring feeding can encourage more blooms.
Pruning: Remove spent flower stalks at the base; trim damaged foliage as needed.

Landscaping Uses

• Accent Plant: Perfect for adding a dramatic pop of color in beds and borders.
• Mass Plantings: Stunning when used in groupings for large-scale impact.
• Rock Gardens: Complements boulders, agaves, and cacti.
• Pollinator Gardens: Excellent for attracting hummingbirds.

Summary

‘Stoplights’ Hesperaloe offers vibrant, long-lasting blooms with a unique two-tone flair, evergreen foliage, and exceptional desert toughness. It’s an ideal choice for low-water landscapes needing bold seasonal color.

Three Timbers Installation Guide (Feel Free to Follow): ‘Stoplights’ Hesperaloe

Planting Guide:

Location: Full sun for the brightest blooms.
Soil: Well-draining sandy or rocky soil preferred.
Spacing: Space 2–3 feet apart for mass plantings.
Planting Depth: Keep crown level with surrounding soil.
Support: Not required—naturally upright bloom stalks.

Watering Guide:

Watering After Planting:

• Initial Watering: Water deeply after planting to saturate root zone.
• Frequency: Every 3–4 days for the first 2–3 weeks.
• Watering Amount: Enough to moisten soil 6–8 inches deep.

When is the Plant Established?

• Typically after 2–3 months with consistent watering and healthy new growth.

Watering Once Established:

• Summer: Water every 14–21 days in extreme heat.
• Winter: Water every 4–6 weeks if dry.

Drip Irrigation Setup:

Placement of Emitters: Place 1 emitter 8–12 inches from plant base.
Flow Rate: 1 gallon per hour.
Number of Emitters: One for young plants; two for mature clumps.
Adjusting Frequency: Increase slightly during extended summer heat; reduce in cooler months.

General Watering Tips for ‘Stoplights’ Hesperaloe:

• Soil Check: Allow top 3 inches of soil to dry before watering again.
• Avoid Overwatering: Excess moisture can lead to crown rot.
• Mulch: Use gravel mulch to help conserve soil moisture and reduce weeds.