When I say "beautiful flowers and thorns" what comes to mind? Roses? Most likely. But how about cactus?

Currently, many Austinites are concerned about landscapes and gardens that have low water needs. A lot of people want highly drought tolerant lawns, but feel depressed about having cactus or yuccas and the like. All they can conjure up is images of barren deserts full of dangerously spiky succulents.

But things are never what they seem. Many drought tolerant succulent plants (such as cactus, yuccas, and sedums) have beautiful, down right stunning, blooms. Roses and gardenias, blue bonnets and wine cups, these plants are expected to produce color! I rarely am impressed ... but cactus on the other hand, if I see a blooming cactus it stops me right in my tracks.