Ocotillo

Ocotillo produces spikes of tubular red-orange flowers rich in nectar that support foraging bees, including carpenter bees that effectively transfer pollen while accessing the reward. Bloom occurs primarily in spring after winter rains, with possible sporadic summer flushes, providing a dependable early resource in arid habitats. The shrub is extremely drought-tolerant, shedding leaves during dry periods and requiring no supplemental water once established.