Water shortages make it tough to keep landscapes green. Some plants survive with little water and still look great. These drought-resistant plants save water, lower costs, and reduce upkeep. Here are some of the best choices for a dry climate.
1. Lavender
Lavender adds color and a fresh scent to any yard. It grows well in dry soil and full sun. The plant needs little care once established. Its purple flowers attract bees and butterflies. Prune it yearly to keep it healthy.
2. Agave
Agave stores water in its thick leaves, making it ideal for dry areas. It needs well-drained soil and full sun. This plant has sharp edges, so place it away from walkways. Some varieties grow large, while others stay small.
3. Yucca
Yucca plants thrive in dry conditions. They have spiky leaves and tall flower stalks. They need little water and prefer full sun. Once established, they require almost no care. Avoid overwatering, as this can cause root rot.
4. Sedum
Sedum, also called stonecrop, is a hardy succulent. It grows in rocky soil and requires little water. Some types stay low to the ground, while others grow tall. The plant produces small, colorful flowers that attract pollinators.
5. Russian Sage
Russian sage has silver leaves and purple flowers. It thrives in hot, dry climates. The plant needs full sun and well-drained soil. It resists pests and deer, making it a great low-maintenance choice.
6. Lantana
Lantana adds bright colors to any yard. It produces small flowers in clusters. The plant loves heat and dry soil. It attracts butterflies and hummingbirds. Prune it to control its size and shape.
7. Red Yucca
Red yucca is not a true yucca, but it looks similar. It has long, thin leaves and tall flower spikes. The flowers are red or pink and bloom for months. This plant thrives in full sun and rocky soil.
8. Rosemary
Rosemary is both a useful herb and a drought-resistant plant. It has needle-like leaves and small blue flowers. The plant grows best in full sun and well-drained soil. It needs little water once established.
9. Coneflower
Coneflowers bring bright color to dry gardens. They have daisy-like petals and a raised center. These flowers attract bees and butterflies. The plant grows well in poor soil and needs little water.
10. California Poppy
California poppies bloom in bright orange, red, or yellow. They thrive in dry soil and full sun. These flowers reseed themselves, making them easy to maintain. They add a natural, wild look to any landscape.
11. Aloe Vera
Aloe vera stores water in its thick leaves. It grows well in dry, sandy soil. This plant needs full sun but can handle some shade. It also has medicinal uses, making it a useful addition to any yard.
12. Blanket Flower
Blanket flowers have red and yellow blooms. They thrive in dry, poor soil. These flowers attract pollinators and bloom for months. The plant requires little care beyond occasional deadheading.
13. Cactus
Many types of cacti work well in dry landscapes. They store water in their thick stems. Some have large, colorful flowers. Most cacti need full sun and well-drained soil.
14. Salvia
Salvia plants have small, tube-shaped flowers. They grow well in hot, dry conditions. The plant attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. It comes in many colors, including red, purple, and blue.
15. Penstemon
Penstemon plants have tall spikes of tube-shaped flowers. They thrive in dry, rocky soil. The flowers attract hummingbirds. Once established, they need very little water.
16. Texas Sage
Texas sage has small, purple flowers and silvery leaves. It thrives in heat and drought. This plant requires little care and stays green all year. It also resists pests and disease.
17. Ice Plant
Ice plant is a low-growing succulent. It has bright, daisy-like flowers. This plant spreads quickly, making it good for ground cover. It grows well in sandy or rocky soil.
18. Artemisia
Artemisia plants have soft, silver-gray leaves. They thrive in dry soil and full sun. The plant has a strong scent that repels pests. Prune it to keep its shape and size in check.
19. Crepe Myrtle
Crepe myrtle is a drought-tolerant tree or shrub. It produces clusters of flowers in summer. The plant needs full sun and well-drained soil. Some varieties grow small, while others reach tree height.
20. Butterfly Bush
Butterfly bush produces long clusters of flowers. It attracts butterflies and hummingbirds. This plant needs full sun and well-drained soil. Prune it in early spring to encourage new growth.
Choosing the Right Plants
Pick plants that match your climate and soil type. Consider the size of the plant when fully grown. Group plants with similar water needs together. Use mulch to help the soil hold moisture.
Final Thoughts
Drought-resistant plants make landscaping easier. They save water and require little upkeep. Many also attract birds and pollinators. Choose the right plants, and you’ll have a beautiful, water-wise yard.
