Towering as high as 25 feet at maturity, the Ocotillo (oko-tee-yo) is like nature’s own magician in the desert.
Much of the year, it resembles a stand of dead, thorny sticks. But when springtime conditions are just right it pulls vibrant colors out of thin air, right before your eyes.
The ocotillo is known for its dramatic annual transformation. Although it remains dormant much of the year, resembling a thorny skeletal twig, each spring this upright succulent comes to life with a shiny coat of tiny green leaves and vibrant orange flower buds.
How did the ocotillo plant get its name?
It’s the striking orange blossoms that resemble little torches, when in full bloom, that give the plant its name. Ocotillo is Spanish for “little torch.”
Orange blossoms typically only appear in the spring; however, the ocotillo can sprout and shed the green leaves multiple times throughout the year.
Where in Arizona can Ocotillos be found?
The ocotillo plant thrives in low desert environments, where few other plant species can tolerate the intense heat. It’s common to see ocotillos placed as focal points in the residential landscapes of Phoenix and other cities that make up the Valley of the Sun. They’re also plentiful in their native form in preserves designated for recreational activities.
One of the most impressive congregations of ocotillo can be found along Interstate 10 between the town of Quartzsite and Ehrenberg, Arizona.
How to appreciate the Arizona Desert
The Sonoran Desert that makes up much of Arizona gets a bad rap for being an inhospitable place covered with nothing but sand and the occasional cactus. If you take time to learn about the amazing flora, like the magical ocotillo, you’ll come to appreciate what a beautiful place Arizona is.
