Photo Credit: Charles Mann, Charles Mann Photography

Photo Credit: Linda Enger, Linda Enger Photography
Tall, linear fencepost cactus is the focal point of this diversly planted landscape.

Photo Credit: Marc McKeown, McKeown, Inc. E.L.P.
Low maintenance plants and rip-rap stabilize and adorn the slope around this back yard entertainment area.

Photo Credit: Linda Enger, Linda Enger Photography
Cassia (far left), Trailing Dalea (to left of waterfall), Bougainvillea (to right of waterfall) and Lady Banks Rose (against wall) soften this private relaxation space.

Photo Credit: Sylvia yoder, Real Estate Consulting and Education, Inc.

Photo Credit: Linda Enger, Linda Enger Photography
This raised bed planting area is an attractive, water-efficient way to grow vegetables. Like the rest of the yard, it is watered with a drip system.

Photo Credit: Glenn Fahringer
A small water feature surrounded by desert plants (Autumn Sage - red, Desert Marigold - yellow, and Parry's Agave - with compact gray rosette) creates an oasis for residents and wildlife.

Photo Credit: Charles Mann, Charles Mann Photography

Photo Credit: Charles Mann, Charles Mann Photography
This space serves as an entertainment area and a play area. The convertible shade structure allows for sun during the cooler months and provides shade during the warmer times of year.

Photo Credit: Charles Mann, Charles Mann Photography
Seat cushions and Mexican tile add color to this back yard Xeriscape.

Photo Credit: Richard Maack

Photo Credit: Robin Stinnett
The Xeriscape principles at work - the site drawing, landscape plan and irrigation system shown in this guide yielded this colorful Xeriscape perfectly suited to the homeowners' needs.