If you’re looking for a large shrub that can grow in a hot, sunny spot, the jojoba plant (Simmondsia chinensis) is a great candidate. These shrubs are native to the deserts of California, Arizona and Mexico, and are extremely drought-tolerant, even growing in areas with only 3 inches of annual rainfall.
They are also very attractive, with bluish-green oval leaves and no thorns. They thrive in sandy soils, and can reach a size of 10 feet high, albeit very slowly. If given no supplemental water, they will likely stay under 6 feet. In fact, these plants do better without additional irrigation once they are established; they tend to get leggy and weak if over-watered. Likewise, if planted in shade, they will also become spindly.
Up close, you can see that its leaves grow at an angle, end-on to the southern sun; this allows the leaves to get most of their sun exposure during the morning and afternoon while protecting the leaves from the harsh sun of midday.
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Jojoba shrubs are either male or female, and are wind-pollinated. This means they do produce a considerable amount of pollen; however, few people are allergic to them. The female plants produce jojoba beans which consist of nearly 40% liquid wax. The wax is harvested on large scales for cosmetic and industrial uses. Native Americans used the plant for cosmetic uses, cooking and medicinal needs.
If not irrigated, these plants are unlikely to need much pruning. They can be pruned to control size if needed, but it’s easiest to just avoid watering them. They will not respond well to formal shearing.
Jojoba shrubs are excellent candidates for informal hedges, and make a great barrier for privacy. They are also good for wildlife, with a variety of our native animals using them for forage including seed-eating birds and large and small mammals.
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