Shady Area Plants in the Desert?

Question:I'm looking for plants that will thrive in a shady area and with stand the Arizona heat. Any suggestions? Thank you.

Answers:
WHERE in the desert do you live? There is a BIG difference in the temps between the High Desert (like Flagstaff) and the Low Desert (like Phoenix).

If you live in Phoenix, you will be looking for tropical plants.

Here is my best recommendation: Get a copy (buy or go to the library) of The Western Garden Book by Sunset. Look up the climate zones in the front of the book (pages 58 to 61 show Arizona). Then you will be able to tell your exact climate zone. The rest of the book will tell you all about plants for your zone.

Good Luck!!