Arizona Annual Flowers: A Visual Guide for Low-Desert Flowers

When I first started flower gardening here, the hardest part wasn’t picking flowers I liked. It was figuring out when to plant them. Almost every seed packet and planting chart is written for a different climate, and following that timing in the low desert is how you end up with leggy, sunburned plants or seeds that never come up.

The low desert has its own calendar. A lot of our best flowers go in the ground in fall and bloom through our mild winters and spring, while the heat-lovers wait for the warm months. Once you plant with that rhythm instead of against it, flowers get a lot easier.

This guide covers over 100 flowers that grow well as annuals in the low desert, including the planting window for each, whether to start from seed or transplant, and what to expect once they’re growing. Some are true annuals. Others are tender perennials that won’t survive our summers or hard frosts, so we grow them for a single season the same way. If you want the timing in a format you can plant by, my low desert flower planting guide breaks it down month by month.

Low desert means elevations below 3,500 feet in the Southwest, including the Phoenix and Tucson metro areas.

Helpful Resources for Growing Flowers in the Low Desert

Whether you’re just getting started or looking to expand your flower garden, these resources will help you grow flowers successfully in Arizona’s unique climate:

• Flower Gardening Basics
  A great starting point for beginners—covers soil prep, light needs, watering, and more.
• Low Desert Flower Planting Guide
  Month-by-month planting guidance specifically for the low desert.
• 10 Cool-Season Flowers That Love Mild Winters
  Tried-and-true flowers that thrive during Arizona’s cooler months.
• Cool-Season Flowers to Plant from Seed
  Easy, direct-sow flowers for fall and winter planting.
• Cool-Season Hardy Annual Flowers
  Learn which hardy annuals to plant early for beautiful spring blooms.
• 10 Easiest Fall Flowers in Arizona
  Perfect for beginning gardeners—low-maintenance blooms that perform well in fall.
• 10 Flowers That Love Hot Summers and How to Grow Them
  Heat-tolerant blooms that thrive through Arizona summers.
• How to Grow Wildflowers in the Desert
  Planting wildflowers? This guide covers timing, prep, and tips for success.
• Growing and Using Edible Flowers
  Learn which blooms are edible and how to grow them organically.
• How to Pinch Flowers for More Blooms
  A simple technique that leads to bushier plants and more flowers.
• Plant Support Netting for Cut Flowers
  How and when to use support netting to keep your cut flowers tall and straight.
• Perpetual Flower Planting Calendar
  A perpetual calendar to help you know what flowers to plant and when.
• Flower Planting Guide
  Detailed spacing, sowing tips, and plant notes for nearly 100 types of flowers.
• How to Grow Bulbs in Containers in Hot Climates
  Tips for choosing, planting, and caring for bulbs in containers when gardening in warm regions.

Need help selecting which flower to grow? Explore the Ultimate Plant Index for inspiration and growing tips, all in one place.

Take your gardening skills to the next level with my gardening classes. Whether online or in person, these lessons dive into seasonal planting, raised bed design, soil health, and the unique challenges of gardening in the low desert—giving you the knowledge to grow with success.

Would you like the low-desert planting dates for flowers in a convenient calendar?

The Perpetual Annual Flower Planting Calendar, available in my shop, helps you learn when to plant flowers in the low desert of Arizona and whether to plant seeds or transplants.

African Daisy (Dimorphotheca sinuata)

When to plant African Daisies in Arizona:

Plant seeds outside: September 15 – November
*does best directly sown in garden

How to grow African Daisies: 

• Grows best from seed
• Days from seed to bloom: 120
• Months in bloom: January – April
• Good to know: Reseeds readily; some consider it invasive. When plants die back, shake seeds onto the ground after pulling plants to encourage reseeding the following year. 

Ageratum (Floss Flower)

When to plant Ageratum in Arizona:

Start seeds indoors: August – November
Plant transplants outside: October- January

How to grow Ageratum:

• Grows best from transplant
• Days from seed to bloom: 180
• Months in bloom: February – May
• Good to know: Prefers rich soil. Needs regular water. Easy to grow. Comes in many colors. Attracts pollinators. 

Allium

When to plant Allium in Arizona:

Plant bulbs outside: October – November

How to grow Allium:

• Grows best from bulb
• Days from seed to bloom: 120 -150 days
• Months in bloom: March – May
• Good to know: Prefers full sun and well-drained soil. Allow foliage to die back naturally to feed the bulb. Great for pollinators and striking in garden borders.

(Sweet) Alyssum

When to plant Alyssum in Arizona:

Start seeds indoors: August – January
Plant seeds or transplants outside: October – March

How to grow Alyssum:

• Grows best from seed or transplant 
• When to plant alyssum in Arizona: October – March 
• Days from seed to bloom: 30
• Months in bloom: Late October – May
• Good to know: If planted from seed, thin seedlings. Easy to grow. Grows well in sun or part shade. Reseeds easily. 

This article shares more information about how to grow alyssum.

Amaryllis

When to plant Amaryllis in Arizona:

Plant bulbs outside: March and October – November

How to grow Amaryllis:

• Grows best from bulbs
• Days from seed to bloom: 40 – 70
• Months in bloom: November – March
• Good to know: Tender perennial. Often grown indoors in pots. Needs bright, indirect light. After blooming, allow leaves to grow and feed the bulb for next season. Can be stored dormant and rebloomed yearly.

Read this article for more information about how to grow amaryllis.

Ammi (Queen Anne’s Lace, Dara)

When to plant Ammi in Arizona:

Start seeds indoors: September – October
Plant seeds or transplants outside: October – November

How to grow Ammi:

• Grows best from seed
• Days from seed to bloom: 65 – 90
• Months in bloom: March – early May
• Good to know: Can be invasive. Will reseed readily. Deadhead before seeds form on flower. Good cut flower and vase filler. 

Anemone

When to plant Anemone in Arizona:

Plant corms outside: October – November

How to grow Anemone:

• Grows best from corms – soak corms for 2-3 hours before planting
• Days from seed to bloom: 80 – 100
• Months in bloom: February – April
• Good to know: Cool-season bloomer. Prefers full sun and well-drained soil. Great for cut flowers. Plant successively every few weeks for extended blooms. Dies back in summer heat but corms can be dug up and stored or left to attempt to naturalize.

Angelonia

When to plant Angelonia in Arizona:

Plant transplants outside: March – July

How to grow Angelonia:

• Months in bloom: Nearly all year if frost free 
• Good to know: Angelonia is a tough plant that provides excellent color in the heat of low desert Arizona summers. Needs regular water; let established plants dry out a little between watering. Cover if there is a freeze. If plants do not freeze, they will provide year-round color. Divide established plants, and plant in other areas of the yard.

Read this article for more information about how to grow angelonia.

Arroyo Lupine

When to plant Arroyo Lupine in Arizona:

Plant seeds outside: October – November

How to grow Arroyo Lupine:

• Grows best from seed directly sown in garden
• Days from seed to bloom: 90-120
• Months in bloom: March – May
• Good to know: Southwest native. Attracts pollinators. Fall sowing recommended. May self-seed. Drought-tolerant once established.

Read this article for more information about how to grow arroyo lupine.

Aster

When to plant Aster in Arizona:

Start seeds indoors: August – September
Plant transplants outside: October – November

How to grow Aster:

• Grows best from transplant
• Days from seed to bloom: 180
• Months in bloom: March – April
• Good to know: Good cut flower. Attracts butterflies. Can be difficult to grow from seed. Keep deadheaded to encourage blooms. 

Baby’s Breath

When to plant Baby’s Breath in Arizona:

Start seeds indoors: July – October
Plant seeds or transplants outside: September – December

How to grow Baby’s Breath:

• Grows best from seed or transplant
• Days from seed to bloom: 160
• Months in bloom: March – May
• Good to know: Good cut flower. Dries well.

Bee Balm

When to plant Bee Balm in Arizona:

Start seeds indoors: August – January
Plant seeds or transplants outside: October – March

How to grow Bee Balm:

• Grows best from seed or transplant
• Days from seed to bloom: 75
• Months in bloom: Late April – early July
• Good to know: Can be difficult to grow. Attracts beneficial insects and pollinators. Considered a perennial flower, but often grown as an annual in the low desert of Arizona.

Begonia

When to plant Begonias in Arizona:

Plant transplants outside: September – November

How to grow Begonia: 

• Grows best from transplant
• Days from seed to bloom: 180
• Months in bloom: January – December
• Good to know: Needs shade and regular water to grow well. 

Bells of Ireland

When to plant Bells of Ireland in Arizona:

Plant seeds outside: September – November
*does best directly sown in garden

How to grow Bells of Ireland:

• Grows best from seed
• Days from seed to bloom: 180
• Months in bloom: March – May
• Good to know: Good cut flower. 18″-24″ high.

Bigelow’s Purple Aster

When to plant Bigelow’s Purple Aster in Arizona:

October – November

How to grow Bigelow’s Purple Aster: 

• Grows best from seed
• Days from seed to bloom: 150
• Months in bloom: October – November and March – May
• Good to know: Attracts butterflies. Wildflower. Reseeds. Easy to grow. 

Calendula

When to plant Calendula in Arizona:

Start seeds indoors: August – September
Plant seeds or transplants outside: September 15 – November

How to grow Calendula:

• Grows best from seed or transplant
• Days from seed to bloom: 100
• Months in bloom: December – May
• Good to know: Edible, medicinal uses. Reseeds easily. Early bloomer. Often grown as a trap crop for aphids. Keep deadheaded to encourage blooms. 

Read this article for more information about how to grow calendula.

Calla Lily

When to plant Calla Lily in Arizona:

Plant rhizomes outside: October – November

How to grow Calla Lily:

• Grows best from rhizomes
• Days from seed to bloom: 60 – 90
• Months in bloom: May – July
• Good to know: Tender perennial. Prefers partial shade in hot climates and moist, well-drained soil. Can be grown in containers.

Campanula (Bellflower)

When to plant Campanula in Arizona:

Plant seeds indoors: August – September
Plant transplants outside: October – November

How to grow Campanula:

• Days from seed to bloom: 70 – 90
• Months in bloom: March – June
• Good to know: Cool season hardy annual. Dies back when it gets hot. Grown as an annual. Prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. Attracts pollinators.

Read this article for more information about how to grow campanula.

Canna

When to plant Canna:

Plant rhizomes outside: March

How to grow Canna:

• Grows best from rhizomes
• Days from seed to bloom: 90 – 100
• Months in bloom: May – October
• Good to know: Warm-season perennial. Thrives in full sun and rich, moist soil. Great for tropical-looking gardens. Can be grown in containers. Cut back after frost; rhizomes may overwinter in mild areas.

Carnation

When to plant Carnations in Arizona:

Start seeds indoors: August – November
Plant transplants outside: October – January

How to grow Carnations:

• Grows best from transplant
• Days from seed to bloom: 150
• Months in bloom: October – April
• Good to know: Easy to grow. Good cut flower. Keep deadheaded to encourage blooms. Considered a perennial flower but is often grown as an annual in the low desert of Arizona. 

Celosia

When to plant Celosia in Arizona:

Start seeds indoors: February – April
Plant transplants outside: April – June 15

How to grow Celosia:

• Grows best from seed (started indoors if possible) or transplant (do not let transplants become root-bound) 
• Days from seed to bloom: 120
• Months in bloom: July – November
• Good to know: Attracts pollinators and birds. Comes in several colors. It can be tricky to grow.

Chamomile

When to plant Chamomile in Arizona:

Start seeds indoors: August – January
Plant transplants outside: October – March

How to grow Chamomile:

• Grows best from transplant
• Keep flowers cut back to encourage more production.
• Chamomile grows well with most other herbs and vegetables. 

Read this article for more information about how to grow chamomile.

Chrysanthemum

When to plant Chrysanthemums in Arizona:

Plant transplants outside: October – November

How to grow Chrysanthemums:

• Grows best from transplant
• Purchase transplants that have not bloomed yet.
• After blooming, remove spent blooms to encourage a second flush of color.
• Make sure container or garden bed has good drainage; mums can rot easily.

Clarkia

When to plant Clarkia in Arizona:

Start seeds indoors: August – October
Plant transplants outside: September 15 – November

How to grow Clarkia:

• Grows best from transplants 
• Days from seed to bloom: 150
• Months in bloom: March – May
• Good to know: Good cut flower. Easy to grow. Needs regular water. Keep deadheaded to encourage blooms. 

Coleus

When to plant Coleus in Arizona:

Start seeds indoors: January – April
Plant transplants outside: March – June 15

How to grow Coleus:

• Grows best from transplant
• Months in bloom: July – November
• Good to know: Easy to grow. Needs regular water and part sun or shady conditions to thrive.

Coreopsis

When to plant Coreopsis in Arizona:

Start seeds indoors: January – March and August – September
Plant seeds or transplants outside: March – May and October – November

How to grow Coreopsis:

• Grows best from seed
• Days from seed to bloom: 30-60
• Months in bloom:  April – September
• Good to know: Wildflower; reseeds easily. Thin seedlings. Good cut flower. 

Cornflower (Bachelor’s Button)

When to plant Cornflowers in Arizona:

Plant seeds outside: September 15 – November

How to grow Cornflowers:

• Grows best from seed directly sown in garden
• Days from seed to bloom: 120
• Months in bloom: February – June
• Good to know: Reseeds easily. Good cut flower. Many colors are available. Easy to grow. Keep deadheaded to encourage blooms. 

Read this article for more information about how to grow cornflowers.

Cosmos

When to plant Cosmos in Arizona:

Plant seeds outside: March – June

How to grow Cosmos:

• Grows best from seed directly sown in garden
• Days from seed to bloom: 120
• Months in bloom: July – November
• Good to know: Wildflower, reseeds easily. Good cut flower. Cutting central stem early produces fuller branching stems. Keep deadheaded to encourage blooms. 

Cosmos (Sulfur)

When to plant Sulfur Cosmos in Arizona:

Plant seeds outside: May – July

How to grow Sulfur Cosmos:

• Grows best from seed directly sown in garden
• Days from seed to bloom: 120
• Months in bloom: September – November
• Good to know: Reseeds easily. Taller plants may need support. Needs regular water. 

Creeping Zinnia

When to plant Creeping Zinnia in Arizona:

Start seeds indoors: January – February
Plant seeds or transplants outside: March – April

How to grow Creeping Zinnia:

• Grows best from seed or transplant
• Days from seed to bloom: 30
• Months in bloom: February – early May
• Good to know: Attracts butterflies. Reseeds.

Daffodil

When to plant Daffodil in Arizona:

Plant bulbs: October – November

How to grow Daffodil:

• Grows best from bulbs
• Days from seed to bloom: 90 – 120
• Months in bloom: February – April
• Good to know: Cool-season perennial. Prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. Allow foliage to die back naturally to feed bulbs for next year. Deer- and rodent-resistant. May naturalize.

Dahlia

When to plant Dahlias in Arizona:

Plant tubers: February – April

How to grow Dahlias:

• Days from planting tuber to bloom: 45 – 60
• Months in bloom: April – June 
• Good to know: Needs regular water and part sun to do well. Excellent cut flower. Often treated as an annual in the low desert.

Delphinium

When to plant Delphinium in Arizona:

Start seeds indoors: July – September
Plant transplants outside: September 15 – November

How to grow Delphinium:

• Grows best from seed
• Days from seed to bloom: 150
• Months in bloom: March – May

Desert Milkweed

When to plant Desert Milkweed in Arizona:

Plant transplants outside: February – March and October – November

How to grow Desert Milkweed:

• Grows best from transplant
• Days from seed to bloom: 90 – 120
• Months in bloom: May – October
• Good to know: Native perennial. Extremely drought-tolerant and thrives in full sun and poor soil. Attracts monarchs and other pollinators. Minimal maintenance once established. Milky sap can irritate skin—handle with care.

Dianthus (Sweet William)

When to plant Dianthus in Arizona:

Start seeds indoors: July – November
Plant transplants outside: September – January

How to grow Dianthus:

• Grows best from transplant
• Days from seed to bloom: 180
• Months in bloom: October – April
• Good to know: Easy to grow. Edible. Comes in many colors. 

Dusty Miller

When to plant Dusty Miller in Arizona:

Start seeds indoors: January – March and August – September
Plant transplants outside: March – May and October – November

How to grow Dusty Miller:

• Grows best from transplant
• Good to know: Easy to grow. Tender perennial in Zones 8-10. Excellent filler foliage in flower arrangements.

Echinacea (Purple Coneflower)

When to plant Echinacea in Arizona:

Start seeds indoors: August – September
Plant transplants outside: October – November

How to grow Echinacea:

• Grows best from transplant (Echinacea often blooms in the second year, and seeds need cold weather to germinate) 
• Days from seed to bloom: 180
• Months in bloom: April – June
• Good to know: Attracts wildlife. Needs regular water. Good cut flower. Keep deadheaded to encourage blooms. 

English Daisy

When to plant English Daisies in Arizona:

Plant transplants outside: October – March

How to grow English Daisies:

• Grows best from transplant
• Months in bloom: January – May
• Good to know: The flower petals fold up at night and open again with the sun. Prefers shade. Keep deadheaded to encourage blooms. 

Evening Primrose

When to plant Evening Primrose in Arizona:

Start seeds indoors: August – September
Plant transplants outside: October – November

How to grow Evening Primrose:

• Grows best from transplant
• Days from seed to bloom: 180
• Months in bloom: March – June
• Good to know: Attracts wildlife. Can be invasive.

Feverfew

When to plant Feverfew in Arizona:

Start seeds indoors: October – February
Plant transplants outside: December – April

How to grow Feverfew:

• Grows best from transplant
• Days from seed to bloom: 100
• Good to know: Excellent cut flower. Prefers light, well-drained, moist, and fertile soil. 6.0-7.2 pH preferred.

Flax

When to plant Flax in Arizona:

Plant seeds outside: Sept. 15 – November 15

How to grow Flax:

• Grows best from seed directly sown in garden
• Days from seed to bloom: 120
• Months in bloom: January – early May
• Good to know: Considered perennial flower. Scarlet and blue varieties. Wildflower; reseeds easily. 

Forget-me-not

When to plant Forget-me-nots in Arizona:

Plant seeds outside: September – December

How to grow Forget-me-nots:

• Grows best from seed directly sown in garden
• Days from seed to bloom: 180
• Months in bloom: March – May
• Good to know: Wildflower; reseeds easily. Does best in part sun. 

Four O’Clock

When to plant Four O’Clocks in Arizona:

Plant seeds outside: March – June

How to grow Four O’Clock:

• Grows best from seed directly sown in garden
• Days from seed to bloom: 90
• Months in bloom: July – November
• Good to know: Poisonous. Flowers open mid-afternoon. Reseeds. Needs afternoon shade. Attracts squash bugs.

Read this article for more information about how to grow four o’clocks.

Foxglove (Digitalis)

When to plant Foxgloves in Arizona:

Start seeds indoors: July – August
Plant transplants outside: September – October

How to grow Foxglove:

• Grows best from transplant
• Days from seed to bloom: 150
• Months in bloom: March – May
• Good to know:  Difficult to grow. Poisonous. Needs regular water and part sun. 

Read this article for more information about how to grow foxglove.

Freesia

When to plant Freesia in Arizona:

Plant bulbs outside: October – November

How to grow Freesia:

• Grows best from bulbs
• Days from seed to bloom: 100 – 120
• Good to know: Fragrant. Prefers full morning sun and afternoon shade. Needs cool nights to thrive. Can be grown indoors. Toxic to pets if ingested. Excellent for cut flowers.

Gaillardia (Blanket Flower)

When to plant Gaillardia in Arizona:

Start seeds indoors: July – February
Plant seeds or transplants outside: September 15 – November and January – April

How to grow Gaillardia:

• Grows best from seed or transplant
• Days from seed to bloom: 150
• Months in bloom: March – early November
• Good to know: Easy to grow. Wildflower. Reseeds easily. Good cut flower. Keep deadheaded to encourage blooms. 

Gazania

When to plant Gazanias in Arizona:

Start seeds indoors: July – February
Plant seeds or transplants outside: September 15 – November and February – April

How to grow Gazanias:

• Days from seed to bloom: 30-60
• Months in bloom: Late October – June
• Good to know: Considered a perennial flower, but often grown as an annual in the low desert of Arizona. 

Geranium

When to plant Geraniums in Arizona:

Plant transplants outside: September – April

How to grow Geraniums:

• Grows best from transplant
• Days from seed to bloom: 150
• Months in bloom: February – June
• Good to know: Remove flowers for the first few weeks to allow the plant to get established. Keep dead-headed for better blooms. Does best with regular water and 4-6 hours of sun. 
• Considered a perennial flower, but often grown as an annual in the low desert of Arizona. 

Gladiolus

When to plant Gladiolus in Arizona:

Plant corms outside: November – January

How to grow Gladiolus:

• Grows best from corms
• Days from seed to bloom: 70 – 100
• Good to know: Water deeply but infrequently. Can struggle in extreme summer heat—plant early to avoid peak temps.

Globe Mallow

When to plant Globe Mallow in Arizona:

Plant seeds outside: October – November

How to grow Globe Mallow:

• Grows best from seed
• Days from seed to bloom: 120
• Months in bloom: February – early July
• Good to know: Wildflower, reseeds easily. Attracts birds and pollinators. Easy to grow.

Gomphrena (Globe Amaranth)

When to plant Gomphrena in Arizona:

Start seeds indoors: January – May
Plant transplants outside: March – July 15

How to grow Gomphrena:

• Grows best from transplant 
• Days from seed to bloom: 100
• Months in bloom: April – September
• Good to know: Different varieties: trailing and more compact types. Good cut flower. Excellent for drying. Cutting central stem early produces fuller branching stems. Heat tolerant. Easy to grow. Keep deadheaded to encourage blooms. 

Read this article for more information about how to grow gomphrena.

Grape Hyacinth

When to plant Grape Hyacinth in Arizona:

Plant bulbs outside: October

How to grow Grape Hyacinth:

• Grows best from bulbs
• Days from seed to bloom: 90 – 120
• Months in bloom: February – March
• Good to know: Requires winter chill—chill bulbs in fridge for 6–8 weeks before planting if needed.

Hollyhock

When to plant Hollyhocks in Arizona:

Start seeds indoors: August – January
Plant seeds or transplants outside: October – March

How to grow Hollyhocks:

• Grows best from seed, can also be grown from transplant
• Days from seed to bloom: Depends on variety
• Months in bloom: April – June
• Good to know: Many hollyhocks are biennials that grow strong root systems and foliage the first year. In the second year, they send up flowering shoots that produce seeds and then die.

This article shares more information about how to grow hollyhocks. 

Hyacinth

When to plant Hyacinth in Arizona:

Plant bulbs outside: January – February

How to grow Hyacinth:

• Grows best from bulbs
• Days from seed to bloom: 90 – 110
• Months in bloom: February – March
• Good to know: Treat as annual in warm climates like the low desert. Prefers full sun to part shade. Very fragrant. Great in containers. May irritate skin—wear gloves when handling bulbs.

Impatiens

When to plant Impatiens in Arizona:

Plant seeds or transplants outside: April – May

How to grow Impatiens:

• Grows best from transplants
• Days from seed to bloom: 90
• Months in bloom: late July – November
• One of few blooming plants that grow in the shade.

Iris

When to plant Iris in Arizona:

Plant rhizomes outside: October – November

How to grow Iris:

• Grows best from rhizomes
• Days from seed to bloom: 150 – 200
• Months in bloom: March – April
• Good to know: Water deeply but infrequently once established. Allow rhizomes to be partially exposed—don’t bury deeply. Divide clumps every 3–4 years for best flowering. Drought-tolerant.

Larkspur

When to plant Larkspur in Arizona:

Plant seeds outside: September 15 – January

How to grow Larkspur:

• Grows best from seed directly sown in garden
• Days from seed to bloom: 180
• Months in bloom: March – May
• Good to know: Wildflower; reseeds heavily. Several colors. Easy to grow. Attracts hummingbirds.

Linaria (Toadflax)

When to plant Linaria in Arizona:

Plant seeds outside: September 15 – November 15

How to grow Linaria:

• Grows best from seed directly sown in garden
• Days from seed to bloom: 180
• Months in bloom: March – April
• Good to know: Wildflower, reseeds. Easy to grow. Many colors. 

Lisianthus

When to plant Lisianthus in Arizona:

Plant transplants outside: February – May

How to grow Lisianthus:

• Grows best from transplant
• Days from transplant to bloom: 60-90
• Months in bloom: April – November
• Good to know: Good cut flower. Heat tolerant. Keep deadheaded to encourage blooms. 

Read this article for more information about how to grow lisianthus. 

Lobelia

When to plant Lobelia in Arizona:

Start seeds indoors: July – October
Plant transplants outside: September 15 – December

How to grow Lobelia:

• Grows best from transplant
• Days from seed to bloom: 150
• Months in bloom: March – early June
• Good to know: Prefers part sun. Needs regular water. Wait until hot temperatures subside to plant transplants.

Read this article for more information about how to grow lobelia.

Lupine

When to plant Lupine in Arizona:

Plant seeds outside: October – November

How to grow Lupine:

• Grows best from seed
• Days from seed to bloom: 120
• Months in bloom: Late February – April
• Good to know: Can be tricky to grow. Once they find a spot they like, will often reseed each year.

Mahogany Splendor Hibiscus

When to plant Mahogany Splendor Hibiscus in Arizona:

Plant seeds indoors: January – March
Plant transplants outside: March – May

How to grow Mahogany Splendor Hibiscus:

• Grows best from seed or transplant
• Days from seed to bloom: 75 – 90
• Months in bloom: August – October
• Good to know: Grown for striking burgundy foliage. Loves full sun and heat. Not frost-tolerant. Water regularly. Can be pinched for bushier growth.

Read this article for more information on how to grow mahogany splendor hibiscus.

Marigold

When to plant Marigolds in Arizona:

Start seeds indoors: January – April and August – September
Plant seeds outside: February – May and September – October
Plant transplants outside: February 15 – May and September – October

How to grow Marigolds:

• Grows best from seed or transplants
• Days from seed to bloom: 30-60
• Months in bloom: Late September – December and March – June
• Good to know: Good companion plant in the garden. Reseeds easily. Easy to grow. Needs regular water. Cutting central stem early produces fuller branching stems. Keep deadheaded to encourage blooms. 

This article shares more information about how to grow marigolds.

Nasturtium

When to plant Nasturtium in Arizona:

Plant seeds outside: October – January

How to grow Nasturtiums:

• Grows best from seed directly sown in garden
• Days from seed to bloom: 120
• Months in bloom: February – May
• Good to know: Edible. Good companion and trap crop. Overly-rich soil results in fewer blooms. Reseeds readily. 

This article shares more information about how to grow nasturtiums.

Nigella (Love-in-a-mist)

When to plant Nigella in Arizona:

Plant seeds indoors: August – February
Plant seeds or transplants outside: October – March

How to grow Nigella:

• Days from seed to bloom: 65 – 75
• Months in bloom: March – May
• Good to know: Cool-season annual. Prefers full sun. Reseeds easily. Drought-tolerant once established. Unique seed pods great for dried arrangements. Non-toxic. Best performance in fall or very early spring plantings.

Ornamental Cabbage

When to plant Ornamental Cabbage in Arizona:

Start seeds indoors: July – October
Plant transplants outside: September 15 – December

How to grow Ornamental Cabbage:

• Grows best from transplant
• Months “in bloom“: Late September – March
• Good to know: Easy to grow. Needs regular water. Tolerates part shade.

Ornamental Kale

When to plant Ornamental Kale in Arizona:

Start seeds indoors: July – October
Plant transplants outside: September 15 – December

How to grow Ornamental Kale:

• Grows best from transplant
• Months “in bloom“: Late September – March
• Good to know: Easy to grow. Needs regular water. Tolerates part shade.

Painted Daisy

When to plant Painted Daisies in Arizona:

Plant seeds outside: October – November 15

How to grow Painted Daisies:

• Grows best from seed directly sown in garden
• Days from seed to bloom: 150
• Months in bloom: Late March – May
• Good to know: Keep deadheaded to encourage blooms. Medium difficulty to grow. Needs regular water. Good cut flower. 

Penstemon

When to plant Penstemon in Arizona:

Plant seeds or transplants outside: October – November

How to grow Penstemon:

• Grows best from
• Days from seed to bloom: 90 – 120
• Months in bloom: March – May
• Good to know: Native-friendly perennial. Loves full sun and well-drained soil. Drought-tolerant once established. Attracts hummingbirds. Avoid overwatering. Cut back after bloom to encourage rebloom or maintain shape.

Petunia

When to plant Petunias in Arizona:

Start seeds indoors: July – January
Plant transplants outside: September 15 – March

How to grow Petunias:

• Grows best from transplant
• Days from seed to bloom: 30
• Months in bloom: October – early May
• Good to know: Pinch off flowers when first planted to encourage root development. Keep deadheaded to encourage blooms. Easy to grow. Needs regular watering. 

Phlox

When to plant Phlox in Arizona:

Plant seeds outside: September 15 – November 15

How to grow Phlox:

• Grows best from seed directly sown in garden
• Days from seed to bloom: 150
• Months in bloom: March – May
• Good to know: Good cut flower. Needs regular water. Easy to grow. Cut back stems after flowering. Different varieties have varying heights and colors. 

Poppy

When to plant Poppies in Arizona:

Plant seeds outside: October – December

How to grow Poppies:

• Grows best from seed directly sown in garden
• Days from seed to bloom: 120-150 
• Months in bloom: March – early May
• Good to know: Many different varieties (California, Shirley, Iceland). Reseeds easily. Seed pods are beautiful. Needs regular water. Easy to grow. 

Read this article for more information about how to grow poppies. 

Portulaca (Moss Rose)

When to plant Portulaca in Arizona:

Start seeds indoors: January – April
Plant seeds or transplants outside: March – June

How to grow Portulaca:

• Grows best from seed or transplant
• Days from seed to bloom: 30
• Months in bloom: Late February – October
• Good to know: Edible. Water the plant only when the top of the soil is dry. Needs well-drained soil. Good for containers or rock gardens. Pinch back to encourage new growth.

Purslane

When to plant Purslane in Arizona:

Plant seeds or transplants outside: February – August

How to grow Purslane:

• Grows best from seed directly sown in garden, can also be grown from transplant
• Days from seed to bloom: 30
• Good to know: Although purslane is often considered a weed, it is edible and highly nutritious.

Rain Lily

When to plant Rain Lilies in Arizona:

Plant bulbs outside: March – June

How to grow Rain Lilies:

• Grows best from bulbs
• Days from seed to bloom: 60 – 90
• Months in bloom: July – September
• Good to know: Blooms after rain. Prefers full sun to light shade. Tolerates heat and drought. Great in borders or containers. Dormant in dry spells. Toxic if ingested. Low-maintenance.

Ranunculus

When to plant Ranunculus in Arizona:

Plant corms outside: October – November and February – March

How to grow Ranunculus:

• Grows best from corms – (Presprout corms if planting in February – March)
• Days from planting to bloom: 90-120
• Months in bloom: February – May
• Good to know: Plant the corms 6” apart and 2” deep with the claw side down. Excellent cut flower.  Typically flowers for 4 to 6 weeks. 

Read this article for more information about how to grow ranunculus. 

Ratibida (Mexican Hat)

When to plant Ratibida (Mexican Hat in Arizona:

Start seeds indoors: August – September
Plant seeds or transplants outside: October – November

How to grow Mexican Hat:

• Grows best from seed or transplant
• Days from seed to bloom: 180
• Months in bloom: April – Early September
• Good to know: Wildflower; often reseeds. Keep deadheaded to encourage blooms. 

Rudbeckia (Black-Eyed Susan)

When to plant Rudbeckia (Black-Eyed Susan) in Arizona:

Start seeds indoors: August – January
Plant seeds or transplants outside: October – March

How to grow Rudbeckia (Black-Eyed Susan):

• Grows best from seed or transplant
• Days from seed to bloom: 120
• Months in bloom: July – September
• Good to know: Good cut flower. Easy to grow. Wildflower; often reseeds. Keep deadheaded to encourage blooms. 

Read this article for more information about how to grow rudbeckia. 

Safflower

When to plant Safflower in Arizona:

Plant seeds outside: February – March

How to grow Safflower:

• Grows best from seed directly sown in garden
• Days from seed to bloom: 90
• Months in bloom: Late April – June
• Good to know: Good cut flower. Easy to grow. Attracts wildlife.

Saffron Crocus

When to plant Saffron Crocus in Arizona:

Plant corms outside: September 15 – October

How to grow Saffron Crocus:

• Grows best from corms
• Days from seed to bloom: 40 – 60
• Months in bloom: October – November
• Good to know: Harvest saffron threads from flowers within 1–2 days of opening. Requires full sun and well-drained soil. Very drought-tolerant. Goes dormant in summer. Plant 3–4 inches deep.

Read this article for more information on how to grow saffron crocus.

Salpiglossis

When to plant Salpiglossis (Painted Tongue) in Arizona:

Start seeds indoors: July – September
Plant transplants outside: September 15 – November

How to grow Salpiglossis (Painted Tongue):

• Grows best from transplant
• Days from seed to bloom: 150
• Months in bloom: March – early June
• Good to know: Good cut flower. Difficult to grow.

Salvia

When to plant Salvia in Arizona:

Start seeds indoors: January – March and July – August
Plant transplants outside: March – May and September 15 – October

How to grow Salvia:

• Days from seed to bloom: 30
• Months in bloom: April – early December
• Good to know: Reseeds. Attracts hummingbirds and butterflies. Several colors and varieties. Keep deadheaded to encourage blooms.

Scabiosa (Pincushion Flower)

When to plant Scabiosa in Arizona:

Start seeds indoors: August – September
Plant transplants outside: October – November

How to grow Scabiosa:

• Grows best from transplant
• Days from seed to bloom: 180
• Months in bloom: April – August
• Good to know: Can be tricky to grow from seed, start transplants if available. Keep deadheaded to encourage blooms. 

Read this article for more information on how to grow scabiosa.

Shasta Daisy

When to plant Shasta Daisies in Arizona:

Start seeds indoors: July – September
Plant transplants outside: October – November

How to grow Shasta Daisies:

• Grows best from seed or transplant
• Days from seed to bloom: 180
• Months in bloom: April – July
• Good to know: Needs regular water. Good cut flower. Attracts butterflies. Keep deadheaded to encourage blooms.

Read this article for more information about how to grow shasta daisies.

Snapdragon

When to plant Snapdragons in Arizona:

Start seeds indoors: July – December
Plant transplants outside: September 15 – February 15

How to grow Snapdragon:

• Grows best from transplant
• Days from seed to bloom: 30-60
• Months in bloom: November – early June
• Good to know: Attracts bees and butterflies. One of the easiest cool-season flowers to grow. Cutting central stem early produces fuller branching stems. Keep deadheaded to encourage blooms. 

Read this article for more information on how to grow snapdragons.

Statice

When to plant Statice in Arizona:

Start seeds indoors: August – September
Plant transplants outside: October – November

How to grow Statice:

• Grows best from transplant
• Days from seed to bloom: 150
• Months in bloom: March – August
• Good to know: Good cut flower. Dries well. Several colors are available.

Read this article for more information about how to grow statice. 

Stock

When to plant Stock in Arizona:

Start seeds indoors: August – November
Plant transplants outside: October – January

How to grow Stock:

• Grows best from transplants or seeds 
• Days from seed to bloom: 150
• Months in bloom: March – May
• Good to know: Cutting central stem early (on most varieties) produces fuller branching stems. Keep deadheaded to encourage blooms. Needs regular water. Easy to grow. Fragrant. 

Strawflower

When to plant Strawflowers in Arizona:

Start seeds indoors: August – December
Plant seeds or transplants outside: October – February

How to grow Strawflowers:

• Grows best from transplants or seeds 
• Days from seed to bloom: 150
• Months in bloom: March – September
• Good to know: Cutting central stem early produces fuller branching stems. Keep deadheaded to encourage blooms.  Good cut flower. Excellent for drying.

This article shares more information about how to grow strawflowers. 

Sunflower

When to plant Sunflowers in Arizona:

Plant seeds outside: February – August

How to grow Sunflowers:

• Grows best from seed directly sown in garden
• Days from seed to bloom: 90
• Months in bloom: May – November
• Good to know: Start seeds in trays if birds are a problem. Easy to grow. Try single-stem and branching varieties. Good cut flower. Attracts birds and pollinators. 

This article shares more information about how to grow sunflowers. 

Sweet Peas

When to plant Sweet Peas in Arizona:

Start seeds indoors: September – January
Plant seeds or transplants outside: October – February

How to grow Sweet Peas:

• Days from seed to bloom: 120 
• Months in bloom: February to early May
• Good to know: Doesn’t like being pot bound; if starting indoors, transplant as soon as possible. Prefers rich soil. Needs regular water. Provide support or trellis for growing plants. 

Read this article for more information about how to grow sweet peas.

Tithonia (Mexican Sunflower)

When to plant Tithonia in Arizona:

Start seeds indoors: December – March
Plant seeds or transplants outside: February – May

How to grow Tithonia:

• Grows best from seed 
• Days from seed to bloom: 120 
• Months in bloom: July to early December
• Good to know: Easy to grow heat-loving and drought tolerant flower. Does well in full sun. Plants grow large – provide plenty of room. 

Read this article for more information about how to grow tithonia (Mexican sunflower)

Toothache Plant (Acmelia Oleracea)

When to plant Toothache Plant in Arizona:

Start seeds indoors: December – February
Plant seeds or transplants outside: February – April

How to grow Toothache Plant:

• Grows best from transplant
• Days from seed to bloom: 60-90
• Good to know: Spilanthes is a heat-loving flower commonly called “toothache plant” due to the numbing sensation experienced after eating the leaves or more especially, the flowers.

Read this article for more information about how to grow toothache plant.

Tulip

When to plant Tulips in Arizona:

Plant bulbs outside: November – December

How to grow Tulips:

• Grows best from bulbs
• Days from seed to bloom: 90 – 110
• Months in bloom: February – March
• Good to know: Plant in full sun. Treat as annuals in warm climates. Great in containers or beds. Allow foliage to die back naturally. Toxic if ingested.

Read this article for more information on how to grow tulips.

Verbena

When to plant Verbena in Arizona:

Start seeds indoors: June – August
Plant transplants outside: September 15 – November

How to grow Verbena:

• Grows best from transplants
• Days from seed to bloom: 120
• Months in bloom: March – September 
• Good to know: Easy to grow. Needs regular water. Wildflower types will often reseed. Keep deadheaded to encourage blooms. 

Read this article for more information about how to grow verbena.

Vinca

When to plant Vinca in Arizona:

Start seeds indoors: January – May
Plant transplants outside: March – July

How to grow Vinca:

• Grows best from transplant
• Days from seed to bloom: 30
• Months in bloom: April – October
• Good to know: Keep deadheaded to encourage blooms. Tolerates hot conditions. Needs regular watering. Often reseeds. Look for trailing varieties for containers. Cutting central stem early produces fuller branching stems. Easy to grow. 

Read this article for more information about how to grow vinca.

Violet (Viola, Pansy)

When to plant Violets in Arizona:

Start seeds indoors: August – November
Plant seeds or transplants outside: October – January

How to grow Violets:

• Grows best from seed or transplant
• Days from seed to bloom: 120
• Months in bloom: March – May
• Good to know: Edible. Reseeds. Keep deadheaded to encourage blooms. 

Read this article for more information about how to grow violets.

Wild Hyssop

When to plant Wild Hyssop in Arizona:

Start seeds indoors: December – January
Plant seeds or transplants outside: February – March

How to grow Wild Hyssop:

• Grows best from seed or transplant
• Days from seed to bloom: 90-210
• Months in bloom: June – September
• Good to know: Needs regular water. Attracts wildlife. Afternoon shade preferred.

Yarrow

When to plant Yarrow in Arizona:

Start seeds indoors: August – January
Plant transplants outside: October – March

How to grow Yarrow:

• Grows best from transplant
• Days from seed to bloom: 30
• Months in bloom: May – August
• Good to know: Good cut flower. Attracts butterflies. Wildflower.

Zinnia

When to plant Zinnias in Arizona:

Start seeds indoors: February – May
Plant seeds or transplants outside: March – July

How to grow Zinnias in Arizona:

• Grows best from seed or transplant 
• Days from seed to bloom: 30
• Months in bloom: April – November
• Good to know: Attracts butterflies. Good cut flower. Do not get leaves wet. Easy to grow. Cutting central stem early produces fuller branching stems. Grows well in full sun. Keep deadheaded to encourage blooms.

Read this article for more information about how to grow zinnias. 

Looking for more planting date information? The Fruit Planting Guide, Bulb Growing Guide, Vegetable Planting Guide, Vine Planting Guide, and Herb Planting Guide are full of helpful details about when to plant here in the low desert of Arizona.