ADWR Regulatory Plant Lists are used to regulate public medians and rights-of-way in Arizona’s five Active Management Areas (AMAs). Jurisdictions within many AMAs officially adopt the local ADWR list and incorporate it into ordinances and design guidelines for development. The lists also serve as a non-regulatory resource for residents. The lists were developed independently with the assistance of plant experts from each AMA.

Phoenix AMA

Pinal AMA

Prescott AMA

Santa Cruz AMA

Tucson AMA

Low Water Plants for Cochise County (231 KB), University of Arizona Cooperative Extension - Cochise County and the Water Wise Program Partners

Landscape Plants for the Arizona Desert Booklet and Online, Searchable Database, Arizona Municipal Water Users Association (AMWUA)

Verde Valley Low Water Use Drought Tolerant Plant List (122 KB), University of Arizona Cooperative Extension - Yavapai County and ADWR

Water-efficient Landscapes

Xeriscape (zîr'ĭ-skāp'): A landscaping method that employs drought-resistant plants in an effort to conserve resources, especially water.

Xeriscape: Landscaping with Style in the Sonoran Desert is an illustrated guide that covers xeriscape principles, landscape planning and design, installation, maintenance, and resources. Beautiful photos provide inspiration and design ideas.

For the interactive, online version, go to www.landscapewithstyle.com  

Ch 1 - Xeriscape Principles (2 MB)

Ch 2 - Eight Steps to Planning and Designing a Great Yard (11 MB)

Ch 3 - Your Installation Checklist (4 MB)

Ch 4 - Xeriscape Maintenance: Healthy Landscapes for Lasting Beauty (4 MB)

Developed by the Arizona Department of Water Resources, 2000.

The Arizona Native Plant Society has a variety of brochures that provide photos and information about plants that are native to Arizona desert regions, or are non-native but low water users. The brochures include information about planting, landscaping tips, water use, and maintenance.

The Arboretum at Flagstaff Resources Page provides links to regionally-appropriate, high-elevation plant lists. Arboretum resources include photos and information on growing conditions, transplanting or planting from seed, and mail-order sources.

Lawn Care

Good Reasons to Take Out Your Grass (3 MB) offers practical advice and tips for removing a lawn so that low-water use plants can be planted or to make room for new features such as patios and planters. Developed by the Arizona Municipal Water Users Association (AMWUA).

Desert Lawn Care Guide (2 MB) offers practical advice and tips for maintaining a healthy and water-efficient lawn. Developed by the Arizona Municipal Water Users Association (AMWUA).