About the Arizona Wildflower Project
Discover the story behind our mission to bring wildflowers to every corner of Arizona. Founded and run by Eric Mulvin
How It All Began
Over 20 years ago, I stood in the Superstition Mountains surrounded by an explosion of wildflowers. That fleeting spring bloom sparked a lasting appreciation for the beauty and resilience of desert plants. Years passed, but the desire to experience that magic again never faded. Chasing wildflowers in the wild became harder. Unpredictable rain, short bloom windows, and long drives meant missed opportunities more often than not. In 2019, I decided to stop chasing and start growing, right in my own front yard. I planted native seeds with the hope of recreating that Superstition bloom at home. In 2020, it worked. My yard came alive with California poppies, desert marigolds, bluebells, and more. What began as a personal project quickly caught the attention of neighbors and passersby. Since then, the AZ Wildflower Project has evolved into something bigger. It’s now a community effort to inspire, educate, and reconnect with our native landscape through wildflowers. It started with one yard, and now it’s growing into a movement. The Arizona Wildflower Project is about more than flowers, it’s about connecting with nature, supporting pollinators, and celebrating the beauty of the desert.
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Meet Eric Mulvin
I’m a lifelong Arizona resident with a passion for photography, wildflowers, and the unique beauty of the Sonoran Desert. Through my DesertDJ Instagram account, I’ve shared countless photos of Arizona’s blooms, from the Superstition Mountains to Peridot Mesa. The Arizona Wildflower Project is my way of helping others experience this magic firsthand.
Follow me on Instagram at @DesertDJ to see more wildflower photos and
behind-the-scenes moments.
Why Native Wildflowers?
Native wildflowers do more than just look beautiful. They play a vital role in supporting a healthy, resilient desert ecosystem, and they make it easy for anyone to contribute, one yard or garden at a time.
They support pollinators.
Bees, butterflies, hummingbirds, and other native pollinators rely on wildflowers for nectar and shelter. By planting native species, you help restore essential habitat that has been lost to development, drought, and invasive plants.
They conserve water.
Unlike traditional landscaping or high-maintenance ornamentals, native wildflowers are adapted to the arid Southwest. Once established, they thrive on natural rainfall, making them ideal for water-wise, low-maintenance gardens.
They add seasonal beauty to the desert.
From bold spring color to soft fall textures, wildflowers bring life and movement to the landscape. Whether you're planting a small patch or an entire yard, they reconnect us to the rhythm of the seasons and remind us that beauty can thrive even in challenging conditions.
Planting native wildflowers is more than a gardening decision. It is an act of restoration, a way to give back to the land, and a chance to create something meaningful and beautiful right at home.
Join the Wildflower Movement
Ready to bring wildflowers to your yard? Start with our step-by-step guides, explore data, or connect with me on Instagram for daily inspiration!