Arizona Annual Flowers: A Visual Guide for Low-Desert Flowers
Annual flowers are a simple way to attract pollinators, fill bare spots in the landscape, and add a bright spot of color to containers in the yard and garden. “Arizona Annual Flower Planting Guide: A Visual Guide for Low-Desert Flowers” provides information to help gardeners succeed at growing annuals in the low desert of Arizona. Low desert includes elevations below 3500 ft in the Southwest, such as the Phoenix and Tucson metro areas.
With over 100 flowers in the “Arizona Annual Flowers Planting Guide,” I’m sure you’ll find one to try. Arizona’s seasons are short, and timing is critical when planting. Use this Arizona Annual Flowers Planting Guide to learn when to plant and whether to plant seeds or transplants.
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.
Click on a flower name to go directly to that flower:
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.
Ammi (Queen Anne’s Lace)
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.
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.
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.
Arizona Annual Flowers Planting Guide: A visual guide for low desert annual flowers (continued)
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.
Arizona Annual Flowers Planting Guide: A visual guide for low desert annual flowers (continued)
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.
Arizona Annual Flowers Planting Guide: A visual guide for low desert annual flowers (continued)
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.
Arizona Annual Flowers Planting Guide: A visual guide for low desert annual flowers (continued)
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.
Arizona Annual Flowers Planting Guide: A visual guide for low desert annual flowers (continued)
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.
Arizona Annual Flowers Planting Guide: A visual guide for low desert annual flowers (continued)
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, 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.
Want to learn more about how to grow annual flowers?
Flower Planting Guide for the Low Desert – This guide, published by the Maricopa County Cooperative Extension office, was a valuable resource as I’ve learned to grow flowers in the low desert. I also used it as a reference in the Arizona Annual Flowers Planting Guide.
I’ve learned about Coleus and Ornamental cabbage from “Garden Answer” on Youtube. They garden in Oregon, not AZ, but you should check them out if you haven’t already. You two are my gardening favs!
Laura from Garden Answer is great. She does a lot of fun things. Thank you for your kind words! Made my day.
PRELEPO CVEĆE.KAKO DOĆI DO SEMENA
Where can I buy Globe Amaranth seeds ??
Most nurseries that carry seeds have them, as well as big box stores, they are fairly common. Online you can get them from Renee’s garden: https://sh2543.ositracker.com/159509/9151/url_16913 and other online seed shops.
Love the onion guides. Going for it this cool season. Is growing garlic similar and do recommend any vendors? Thanks, Royal Norman
There are a couple of differences, you can read the guide here: https://growinginthegarden.com/how-to-grow-garlic-10-tips-for-growing-garlic/ I get my garlic from Forever Young Farms.
Hi,
I planted a blue salvia, salvia longispicata x farinacea, in October and it’s done really well until very recently. The leaves are developing grayish spotted patches. The other plants in the pot (nemesia, bacopa) are all thriving. It’s large pot Any idea what it could be?
Thanks in advance for your help!
Could be powdery mildew. I’d pull the plants so it doesn’t spread – or at least remove all the affected parts. https://growinginthegarden.com/how-to-prevent-and-treat-powdery-mildew/
Angela have you had success with Hydrangea. If so what variety and what is the best method and time to plant in the valley area.
Hydrangeas typically do not grow well here in the valley. I wish they did!
Angela, have you had any success with hydrangea? If so what kind and what is best, seed or transplant.
HI. when you list something as a wildflower, are you implying it is native or simply will grow without intervention?
I’m implying it is simple to grow and will often reseed if left to flower and produce seeds.
Hi Angela! I love your website! Thank you for sharing your knowledge and experience. Do you have a favorite nursery here in Mesa that you could recommend? I’m trying to find some salvia, echinacea, yarrow, coreopsis, daylily and Russian sage transplants. I’ve been to A&P nursery and HomeDepot but no dice. Should I try to order them online?
You could try Summerwinds. All but the yarrow are usually available locally. I usually have to start yarrow from seeds.
Angela, I love your website and all it has to offer. I have a question about what to plant in a raised bed against a North facing wall that barely gets any sun because of two ficus trees that are also planted in the bed? The soil is basically clay. I don’t want to spend tons of money amending the soil because we rent. There is also a small butterfly bush on one end that flowers but never gets much bigger. I appreciate any suggestions you may have.
Difficult to grow without sun and good soil. You could look for native, non-flowering plants. Most flowering plants require sunlight in order to flower.
Is vinca invasive here in Phoenix AZ? I just planted in ground as a border to the vegetable bed. Should I move them to containers?
No, they are not invasive.