Cultivars- Watch for Parenthesis

Some 44 years I have purchased planted an already potted plants from nursery that were cultivars and hybrids, and then joyfully planted them, never knowing there was some kind of difference. I took great pleasure in the double blooms and unique colors.

But now into my golden years, and after finally joining the Garden Club in my area, I began to receive a lot of info about plants, soil, environment, etc.

I also attended a few Master Gardener Lectures at my local library, which left me with some really good information.

Wow, was I taken aback!

When gardening, there is always something to learn. I like that.

I’d like to spread the information to my fellow desert gardeners here, so as to bring awareness of what to purchase and why the differences. There is much written on this subject, and you should do your own research to see what suits your beliefs the best.

But for me, I love the desert and desert plants and gardening, but also bees, birds and butterflies as well. As a long-standing resident of this gorgeous valley of the sun, I choose to do the following:

If not planting from seed or sprout, whenever possible I purchase the potted straight species.
Cultivars and hybrids have been bred to produce more attractive characteristics such as striking colors, winter hardiness and improved disease resistance. Often they are altered just enough so that bees fail to recognize the scents, shapes or colors. (Some would disagree!) 🤷🏻‍♀️🤷🏻‍♂️ Those labeled, “double blooms” are not bee-friendly due to the thicker petals which makes it difficult for bees to access nectar. The scents, nectar and pollen may be missing altogether in hybrids. The Parenthesis around the name is usually an indicator that the plant has been altered.
Arizona Plant societies or our Wonderful Desert Botanical Garden (www.dbg.org) will sell straight species of cactus and succulents. Spend some time researching Garden Centers in the Valley and/or contact different Garden Groups for further info. Our outstanding ASU Maricopa County Master Gardener Program is more than happy to provide thorough information on environmentally friendly plants to purchase. I’d advise any desert gardener to schedule or attend a lecture and discover the various options.

https://extension.arizona.edu (Master Gardeners cooperative training

https//cals.arizona.edu (horticulture environmentally responsible)