It's ironic that the desert is such a harsh environment, yet so many things that thrive there are SO hard to grow. When I lived in the desert, I had some huge bladderpod shrubs (about 7' tall & around) that flowered for a long time, which thrilled the hummingbirds & bees. But do you think I could grow more of them to plant around my property? Tried all sorts of things, but had very limited success, eventually getting only a few off to a slothful start. Good luck!
Sorry to hear about Stumpy. It's likely to remain a mystery.