Where can I get a creosote plant?

Question

Hello! I'm currently visiting Phoenix/Sedona and want to buy a small creosote plant to take home. I really enjoy its smell. Could you recommend a nursery that carries it? Thank you!

Answer

If you're looking to buy a creosote plant (Larrea tridentata) in the Phoenix/Sedona area, you are in a good region for it, as this plant is native to the Sonoran Desert and thrives in Arizona’s arid climate. Creosote is often sold in small pots or as nursery-grown seedlings suitable for home planting.

Here are several nurseries and plant centers where you are likely to find creosote plants:

Desert Botanical Garden Nursery (Phoenix) – They carry a variety of native desert plants, including creosote. Staff can often help you select a plant suitable for home planting and provide care instructions.
Arizona Native Plant Society Plant Sales – The society occasionally holds native plant sales, including creosote. These are usually seasonal events, so checking their website or contacting local chapters in Phoenix and Sedona is recommended.
Plant World Nursery (Phoenix) – Specializes in desert-adapted plants and might have small creosote plants available for purchase.
Native Seed/SEARCH (Tucson, AZ) – While a bit of a drive from Phoenix, they sell native seeds and plants, including creosote. They may also ship small plants.
Local garden centers in Sedona – Many Sedona nurseries focus on desert landscaping and sometimes stock small creosote plants. Examples include Grassroots Nursery and Sedona Landscaping Supply.

When purchasing, consider:

Creosote prefers full sun and very well-draining soil, so make sure your pot and soil mix replicate desert conditions.
Transporting it home: if flying, check airline regulations regarding plants, as some small potted plants are allowed but may need inspection.
Watering: Creosote is extremely drought-tolerant. Overwatering in a non-desert environment can harm it.

Visiting these nurseries during the morning hours is recommended, as desert plants handle early sun better and staff are more available for advice. If a particular nursery doesn’t have creosote in stock, ask if they can order it or suggest a local plant sale event.

Enjoy the wonderful aroma of creosote, which is especially noticeable after rain!