Meetings
July Meeting
Thursday, June 4, 2026
7:00 PM
Phemeranthus
Presented by
Dave Ferguson
Phemeranthus
Phemeranthus brachypodius (Laguna Fame Flower)
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I grew up in northern Colorado with a deep fascination for both “creepy crawlies” and plants. Most of my free time as a child was spent exploring the natural world around me, much to the concern—but also the encouragement—of my wonderfully supportive parents. Our home was always filled with aquariums, terrariums, cages, and pots holding bugs, fish, snakes, and the latest seeds or cuttings I had collected. One of my earliest plant treasures was a Christmas Cactus given to me by my grandmother—a plant I still have today, and one that may have truly sparked my lifelong passion for cacti and other unusual plants. Academically, I studied entomology and botany at Colorado State University, then worked with USDA PPQ in Denver as a field entomologist before relocating to Albuquerque, New Mexico, in 1982. Over the years, my career has been as diverse as my plant interests—I’ ve been a grocery bagger, crop consultant, landscaper, part-time mechanic, roofer, nursery worker, and even a greenhouse builder.
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Join us for a deep dive into the fascinating world of Phemeranthus—a genus of about 16 species known for their delicate beauty and surprising resilience. This presentation will showcase these plants in their natural habitats as well as their potential as unique and rewarding garden plants. We ’ll also explore their geographic range, touch on their classification, and highlight a few close relatives that are sometimes mistaken for them. Whether you ’ re a seasoned grower or simply curious about unusual plants, this program will open your eyes to the charm and diversity of Phemeranthus.
Speaker Coordinator: Vonn Watkins Email
All are welcome!
Everyone is welcome to join us for this special in person presentation which will also be available on Zoom. This will be an important educational and informational event you must see! Excellent plant give-aways will take place at the in person meeting (that portion of the program will not appear on Zoom). When leaving the live in person meeting, please enjoy refreshments provided by our member volunteers. Also, everyone may take a special free plant when leaving, offered to you by the Tucson Cactus and Succulent Society and local growers.
For the April meeting we are asking members whose last names begin with “A” through “G” to bring finger food that would serve 10-12 people. It’s MUCH appreciated!!
Meetings are held on the first Thursday of the month from January thru November.
7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Location: St. Phillips in the Hills Episcopal Church - Murphey Gallery
4440 N Campbell Ave, Tucson, AZ 85718
Our meetings are held at the Murphey Gallery at St. Philip's in the Hills Church, located at the northeast corner of River and Campbell. The property can be accessed from westbound River Road by turning into the driveway before the light at Campbell. Watch for St. Philip's signs. Going north on Campbell, take an immediate right onto the property after you go through the intersection.
We look forward to seeing you there!
We also offer a Zoom presentation
When you sign in to the Zoom you’re entered into a raffle for a $25 gift certificate to local nurseries.
Please consider showing up at 6:00 PM before the presentation. We’ve added time for you to learn about our committees and ask questions before and after each meeting. We’ll have tables setup with information about all of the work we do in the club. Come find out if there’s something that fits your own interests and consider volunteering!
