Cultivating these top 5 drought-tolerant plants is a smart choice for a low-maintenance and environmentally conscious garden, as they flourish in dry conditions and increasingly hot summers. While all plants require water, these varieties need significantly less, allowing you to reserve rainwater collected in your water butt for plants with higher water demands. Designing a dry garden is ideal for sunny, exposed areas, and you'll find a wonderful array of flowering, textured, and fragrant plants perfectly suited for such spaces. Many drought-tolerant plants have developed long root systems that can access water deep underground, while others feature smaller leaves to minimize water loss through transpiration or possess fleshy stems capable of storing water during dry spells.
1. Agapanthus (Lily of the nile)
The Agapanthus is a truly recognizable and beloved plant that thrives both in pots and garden borders. While numerous cultivars exist, we're particularly fond of 'Fireworks' for its stunning lilac and white blooms that resemble an explosion of fireworks atop its tall, strong stems. While Agapanthus require consistent watering during their initial establishment, they become much more drought-tolerant after their first year.
2. Eryngium (Mediterranean Sea holly)
With their striking spiky lilac or bluish bracts encircling a cone-like cluster of small flowers, these plants make a bold and beautiful statement in any sunny, dry garden. Requiring very little water once established, their unique blooms also add a touch of elegance to cut flower arrangements.
3. Oenothera (Gaura)
Blooming from midsummer well into autumn, often when other plants have finished, the delicate white and pinkish flowers of Oenothera dance gracefully in the breeze. Thriving in full sun and well-drained soil, this plant adds a touch of whimsical charm to any garden, especially when nestled among ornamental grasses and other drought-tolerant perennials.
4. Mangave
A fascinating hybrid of Agave and Manfreda, Mangave plants are admired for their uniquely patterned foliage. A standout example is 'Inkblot', whose leaves display striking markings reminiscent of ink splashes. Requiring very little water, Mangave thrives when planted in well-drained soil.
5. Delosperma (Hardy ice plant)
Another fantastic choice for a drought-tolerant garden, Delosperma cooperii requires minimal watering. This low-growing variety excels as ground cover, whether in containers or borders. For best results, plant it in full sun and well-drained soil.
Beyond these selections, a wide variety of other plants flourish in dry conditions. It's always a good practice to check the plant label upon purchase to understand its specific watering needs. You might also consider other drought-tolerant beauties such as Erigeron, Verbena bonariensis, Liriope, and Nepeta for your garden.
At Carpenters Nursery, we offer a wide selection of plants perfectly suited for dry gardens, and our knowledgeable team is ready to provide expert advice during your visit.
