Benefits of Growing Wildflowers

It's hard to beat spring in the desert. Wildflowers are spectacular and natural in the desert brimming with color. They can also add a plethora of color to the urban landscape. They are particularly brilliant among succulents and boulders. Native varieties are easy to grow and take so little effort. For a spring bloom, consider planting wildflower seeds from October - November.

Types of Wildflower to Plant

The most popular wildflower is the California poppy (Eschscholzia californica) and is a simple, pretty flower that can purchased in Reds, Oranges, and Yellows. They grow wild and grow prolifically on the roadsides and in the desert. The Native American's used this plant as an herb and food. They used it for ailments in the mouth and was eaten as a green vegetable acting as a sedative.

Scarlet or Red Flax is also a nice flower to include in a desert wildflower mix. It has pretty scarlet or red blooms with long skinny stems. Most people recognize flax seed common as a digestive aid, with soothing and lubricating properties to treat constipation and bronchitis. Discovered in Egyptian tombs, flax is one of the oldest cultivated crops dating back to 5000 B.C.

For some nice variety add Desert Bluebells (Phacelia campanularia) to the mix. They cluster in 1inch bell shaped flowers. They have a striking deep blue and will stand out among the reds and yellows of the other wildflowers. While this flower is not a designated herb, butterflies love it, and are definitely a wonderful aesthetic addition.

A great smelling wildflower and herb is Cherry Sage (Salvia coccinea). This is native to the Mediterranean and North Africa, and performs well here in the desert southwest. It is a spring and fall bloomer. Sage has a wide variety of uses. It is used in country folk's sage wine, sage tea, and even to flavor cheese. It is widely used as a culinary herb throughout the world, especially in England and Italy. It also has several medicinal uses such as a rub to whiten teeth, and made into a tea for colds and fevers.

Another fragrant wildflower/herb is the Evening Primrose (Oenothera Biennis). This hardy plant produces small, yellow, delicate flowers that bloom in the spring and fall. It is widely used today as a supplement for eczema and pretreatment for menstrual relief.

How to Plant Wildflowers

Desert adapted wildflowers need to be planted in well-drained to dry soil and plenty of sun. They need minimal watering and are ideal for xeriscapes. First the landscape needs to be clear of weeds and debris. To plant mix seeds with some compost and spread in wide even strokes across the yard from north to south. Walk on the soil to press seeds into the soil. Pretty simple.

Wildflowers attract so many beneficial insects and birds that a home gardener can create one's own wildlife refuge right in their own backyard. Many wildflowers also possess culinary and medicinal qualities that only enhance one's garden.