Fall in Love with Your Tucson Landscape: Planting Season Has Arrived

A vibrant desert landscape in fall, showcasing drought-tolerant plants with colorful blooms under the warm, golden light.

Last October, while walking through a quiet neighborhood in Tucson, I stopped in my tracks at the sight of a front yard bursting with color. Golden yellow blooms of brittlebush danced in the breeze, accented by the brilliant purple of desert ruellia and the fiery red of chuparosa. A few young desert willow trees framed the scene, their feathery leaves glowing in the evening sun. The entire landscape looked alive—freshly planted and thriving—and it was a reminder of just how magical fall planting can be in Arizona’s desert climate.

Why Fall is Tucson’s Planting Season

Unlike many parts of the country, Tucson’s fall season is one of the best times of year to plant. With daytime temperatures cooling, soil still warm from summer, and winter rains on the horizon, plants have the perfect environment to establish strong root systems before the heat of summer returns. According to the University of Arizona Cooperative Extension, fall planting reduces stress on plants and leads to better long-term growth.

Desert Willow, Red Yucca, Brittlebush, Chuparosa, Desert Ruellia, and Mexican Bird of Paradise.

Plants That Thrive in Fall

When planning your fall landscape, it’s important to choose drought-tolerant plants that not only survive but bring color and texture to your yard. Here are some great options:

• Desert Willow (Chilopsis linearis): A small flowering tree with pink to lavender trumpet-shaped blooms that attract hummingbirds.

• Red Yucca (Hesperaloe parviflora): Striking coral-red flower spikes rise above its arching leaves from spring through fall.

• Brittlebush (Encelia farinosa): A hardy shrub that produces masses of golden yellow flowers in late winter and spring.

• Chuparosa (Justicia californica): A hummingbird magnet with red tubular flowers that bloom through the cooler months.

• Desert Ruellia (Ruellia peninsularis): Provides vibrant purple blooms most of the year with minimal water.

• Mexican Bird of Paradise (Caesalpinia mexicana): A shrub or small tree with clusters of yellow flowers that brighten any yard.

These plants not only conserve water but also support pollinators and create year-round interest. The Arizona Municipal Water Users Association offers an excellent searchable plant guide for more ideas.

The Benefits of Planting Now

Planting in fall means less stress on you and your landscape. Cooler weather makes digging easier, and the season’s natural rhythm supports plant health. Roots grow steadily through the winter, giving your plants a head start when spring arrives. By the time summer comes, your new additions will be better established and more resilient to heat.

Ready to Refresh Your Landscape?

At Sonoran Oasis Landscaping, we specialize in designing, installing and maintaining sustainable landscapes that look stunning year-round. Whether you’re envisioning colorful desert perennials, elegant trees, or a water-saving irrigation system, our certified experts are here to help.

Fall is Tucson’s season of opportunity—don’t miss it. Contact us today at (520) 546-2994 or visit our website to schedule a consultation. Let’s create a landscape that thrives in the desert and brings joy every time you step outside.

Author

Deborah Munoz-Chacon

ISA Certified Arborist

Owner, Sonoran Oasis Landscaping