Hillyhock: A Hidden Gem for Desert Gardens
If you’re looking for a unique native climbing shrub that thrives in hot, dry conditions, meet the hillyhock (Callaeum macropterum). This lesser-known Arizona native might just be the perfect addition to your desert landscape, offering delicate beauty without the fuss of high-maintenance plants.
What is Hillyhock?
Hillyhock is a perennial shrub native to Arizona and parts of the southwestern United States. You might also hear it called by its other common names: aparigua, gallinita, or guirote. Botanically, it was formerly known as Mascagnia macroptera, so don’t be confused if you see that name floating around in older gardening resources.
This multi-stemmed woody plant typically grows as a shrub, usually staying under 13-16 feet in height. What makes hillyhock particularly interesting is its scrambling, somewhat climbing growth habit that can add vertical interest to your landscape.
Where Does Hillyhock Grow Naturally?
As a true Arizona native, hillyhock has adapted perfectly to the challenging conditions of the Sonoran Desert region. Its natural range extends into northwestern Mexico, but within the United States, you’ll find it primarily in Arizona.
Why Consider Hillyhock for Your Garden?
There are several compelling reasons to give this native shrub a try:
- Drought tolerance: Once established, hillyhock requires minimal water, making it perfect for xeriscaping
- Pollinator support: The small yellow flowers attract bees and butterflies to your garden
- Unique texture: Its scrambling growth habit adds interesting texture and can soften harsh landscape edges
- Low maintenance: Being a native, it’s naturally adapted to local conditions and requires little care
- Winged seeds: The distinctive winged seed pods add visual interest even after flowering
Best Garden Settings for Hillyhock
Hillyhock shines in:
- Desert and xeriscape gardens
- Naturalistic landscapes that mimic native plant communities
- Rocky slopes where it can scramble naturally
- Areas where you want a climbing element without the aggressive nature of some vines
Growing Conditions and Care
The beauty of native plants like hillyhock is their adaptability to local conditions. Here’s what this desert dweller prefers:
- Sunlight: Full sun exposure
- Soil: Well-draining soil is essential – soggy conditions will quickly kill this desert native
- Water: Drought tolerant once established, but benefits from occasional deep watering during extreme drought
- Climate: Thrives in USDA hardiness zones 9-11
Planting and Care Tips
Getting hillyhock established in your garden is relatively straightforward:
- Plant in fall or early spring for best establishment
- Ensure excellent drainage – consider planting on slopes or in raised areas
- Water regularly the first year to help establish roots, then reduce to minimal supplemental watering
- If you want it to climb, provide some initial support structure
- Pruning is generally not necessary, but you can shape it if desired
A Word of Caution
While hillyhock is a wonderful native choice, it can be challenging to find in nurseries since it’s not commonly cultivated. You may need to seek out specialty native plant nurseries or participate in native plant society sales to find it. Always ensure you’re purchasing from reputable sources that use responsibly collected or propagated stock.
The Bottom Line
Hillyhock is an excellent choice for gardeners in Arizona who want to support native biodiversity while creating an attractive, low-maintenance landscape. Its unique scrambling habit, drought tolerance, and pollinator benefits make it a valuable addition to desert gardens. Just be patient in tracking down a source – good native plants are worth the hunt!
If you can’t find hillyhock but love the idea of a native climbing shrub, consider asking your local native plant nursery about other southwestern climbing natives that might work in your specific location.
