If you are looking for a tough, drought-tolerant, deer-resistant, hummingbird attracting shrub, Anisicanthus (Desert Honeysuckle) may be just the ticket for you. It is deciduous with dark green foliage and bright red-orange tubular flowers that bloom from mid-summer to fall.
Here in Sedona, my experience growing it has been positive on many levels. It needs little to no irrigation once established but will appreciate a deep watering during extremely hot, dry spells. It self-seeds, but I don’t see it as invasive. I have successfully transplanted it when dormant. Dormancy is important because it has a tap root and needs time to establish a new root system when weather is still cool. Even though deer, javelina, and rabbits regularly mosey through where it is planted, it never becomes lunch! It thrives in full sun.
To maintain a compact shape and encourage more prolific blooms, cut back one-half to two-thirds before new spring growth appears. Mid-February works well here, depending on the mildness of the winter.
Wishing you success growing this shrub that “ticks all the boxes”.
By Cheryl Christenson
President, Sedona Area Garden Club
