Top Drought-Resistant Flora for Every Terrain and Scenery
In the quest for a beautiful and resilient garden, drought-tolerant plants are a must-have. These versatile species can add vertical interest with flowering vines such as Wisteria, Bougainvillea, Trumpet Vine, Honeysuckle, and Silver Lace Vine.
Perennials are not left out in this category. Sedum, also known as stonecrop, is a popular choice, while Dianthus, Verbena, Ageratum, Marigold, Ajuga, Aster, Gaillardia blanket flower, Daylily, Lavender, Zinnia, Yucca, Russian Sage, Yarrow, False Sunflower, Anise Hyssop, Ornamental Allium, Bee Balm, Meadow Sage, Catmint, Black-Eyed Susan, False Indigo, Milkweed, Liatris, Penstemon, Spotted Deadnettle, Goldenrod, Lily of the Nile, Red hot poker, and Mullein are all plants that thrive in arid conditions.
For those seeking a longer blooming period and drought-resistant properties, Coreopsis and coneflowers are valued additions. Native plants, like Bermuda grass, a native of the drylands of Africa, are often more drought tolerant than exotic plants.
Shrubs such as Spirea and Viburnum can also be utilised in gardens, providing structure and color. Exotic plants, adapted for the xeriscape environment, can also be drought-tolerant.
Drought-tolerant plants survive long periods of drought through various means, including internal water storage, extensive root systems, waxy coatings, and hairs on leaves. Irises, alliums, and daffodils are bulbs that do well in dry areas and go dormant during the summer.
Lamb's ears provide wonderful texture in rock gardens and are very drought tolerant. Ornamental grasses like Maiden grass, Blue fescue, Wheatgrass, Pampas grass, and Little Bluestem Grass are also suitable for drought-resistant landscapes.
Heat-resistant trees like Crepe myrtle, locust, lilac, and dogwood are suitable for the landscape, adding height and structure.
By incorporating these drought-tolerant plants into your garden, you can reduce the time and money spent on irrigation. To find the best plants for your garden, perform research or consult with your local extension office.
Nikki Tilley, former Senior Editor and Archivist, has authored six gardening books, and Amy Draiss serves as the Digital Community Manager. With these experts' guidance, creating a beautiful and resilient garden in drought-prone areas is within reach.
