Durable, hardy, and aesthetically pleasing. That would begin to describe one of the best shrubs for the southwest desert landscape. Shiny Xylosma is a proven winner when used as a shrub, hedge or small tree in the desert landscape. This versatile evergreen shrub is highly recommended for the Las Vegas Valley.

Standard Xylosma can grow 8-10 ft. tall and as wide or wider. The leaves are considered yellowish green to bronzy in color and ovate in shape. The standard Xylosma and can be trained into a small tree or tall hedge for privacy. The best choice for the Las Vegas Valley would be Xylosma ‘Compacta’ which grows slowly to 3-4 ft in height and a wider spread. Xylosma should be used as a replacement shrub for Texas Privet or Ligustrum japonicum ‘Texanum’ which is overused and does not perform nearly as well in the valley. This durable shrub tolerates heat, high pH caliche soils in the Las Vegas Valley and is relatively pest free.

Shiny Xylosma is one of my most highly rated plants for the southwest landscape and should be considered in your plant selection. Drought tolerant and low maintenance make Xylosma a great addition to your desert landscape. Contact me by email if you have any further questions regarding this plant or any others you may need information on.