As long as adequate water can be provided, no reason at all you can't grow heather. Loves full sun and doesn't mind heat, especially the rather dry heat ID may generate :-) Just needs well-draining, acidic soil and adequate summer irrigation.

As to what variety, that's your choice! Any of the true heathers - Calluna vulgaris - will be interchangeable with regards to hardiness. Many will develop red or orange foliage color in winter and some will generate very brightly colored new growth in spring.

Here is a link that might be useful: Calluna vulgaris choices..........1000+