Apache Plume

One common trait that most southwestern native shrubs share is that the flowers are generally very colorful and in most every case very interesting. Apache Plume, Fallugia paradoxa is no different. In fact, the plant produces a very unique flower structure that is full of interest and that must be seen to be truly appreciated. Talking about it just doesn't seem to do justice to the plant.

Apache Plume is a graceful, slender, arching and relatively compact shrub that is absolutely loaded with color and interest. Even though the plant can look unkempt and even messy at times it still has a very attractive and has an interesting appearance. This plant is without a doubt a must for any xeriscape landscape

First is the somewhat dark foliage that makes a very good backdrop for the pastel white flowers with a yellow button-center of stamens. Second is that very same delicate-looking white 5 petaled flower that looks like a small rose. Stands to reason then that Apache Plume is part of the Rose family! In full bloom, which is from May to September, and against the dark foliage the flower gives an awesome appearance to the plant. Third is the colorful fruit the plant produces. These fruit clusters come equipped with feathery, hair-like, pinkish-purplish tails that are said to resemble an Apache headdress; hence the name Apache Plume. It is these little fruit clusters are what are truly unique and interesting to see up close. It is a feature of the plant that is sure to turns heads and elicit questions.

Just like all southwestern natives this plant is certainly tough. It takes full sun and the cold temps of the desert. It will also take some light shade, just not too much. And it is definitely drought tolerant but Apache Plume does better with a little mid-summer water. The plant will generally do best in moderately fast draining soil so don't think you have to have the best soil around to grow them, they will adapt. Apache Plume is a semi-deciduous to evergreen dicot (dicotyledonous), perennial that will look its best when it is carefully trimmed during the fall. Trimming should only center around thinning the excess of woody growth so be sure not to hack the plant to drastically. This will simply lead to a shortened life span. Keep in mind that this is one plant that looks very attractive when left to grow in as natural state as possible.

The natural habitat of the Apache Plume is the arid, rocky slopes of the southwestern high desert mountains and grows in arroyos and dry rocky slopes in pinion-juniper woodland at elevations of 3,000-8,000 feet. The plant is native to California, Texas, New Mexico, Colorado, Utah, Nevada, Arizona and northern Mexico. Another interesting fact is that the native people of the southwest once used the stems of Apache Plumes to make hair tonic, brooms and arrow shafts.

The flowers of Apache Plume are definitely attractive to bees and butterflies. If it is your desire for your landscape to attract wildlife then its good to know the plant also provides a refuge to native wildlife and that the seeds attract birds as well. Apache Plume is difficult to start from seed so it is best to buy young plants in 1 to 5 gallon sizes Just make sure the plants are adequately spaced for the specific look you might be trying to achieve.

So to recap if you would like a plant in your landscape that is full of color and of great interest, easy to care for, and drought tolerant then you really don’t need to look any further than Apache Plume. By introducing this plant to your landscape you will be rewarded with an awesome, yet somewhat overlooked, addition to the garden.