I'm based in Phoenix, AZ, and we've just experienced our first day hitting 100 degrees this year, with many more hot days likely on the way. I'm looking for plants that can not only handle the intense dry heat, especially when it soars to around 110 degrees, but also produce fruits or vegetables. Are there any drought-resistant varieties that thrive in these conditions?
4 Answers
Don’t forget about fruit-bearing cacti! They are perfectly adapted to the desert climate and can be a fantastic addition to your garden. You might also want to visit the Phoenix Botanical Garden for more ideas and guidance on what plants work best.
Definitely check out the Maricopa County planting calendar from the extension service. It's a handy guide that can help you plan what to plant and when, to ensure your garden thrives even in the heat.
Absolutely, there are several plants that can thrive in Phoenix's heat! Consider growing Armenian cucumbers, roselle, and sweet potatoes—they do quite well in high temperatures. I also follow some great AZ gardeners on social media who share their tips on heat-tolerant plants!
Prickly pear could also be a great option! They're tough, resilient, and can produce tasty fruit, plus they require minimal water once established.

Yeah, the Botanical Garden has awesome resources! It's great to see the plants in action and get some inspiration.