Beautifying your outdoor space begins with selecting plants and flowers that can weather the elements–or lack of the elements, say in the case of a dry spell. If you live in a location known for its arid climate, or if you don’t regularly see rain in your area, you might want to pick low-maintenance options that will thrive in your yard or garden. From grasses to shrubs, pretty florals and everything in between, here are just a few fine choices to consider.
Angelina. Known as sedum rupestres, this herbaceous perennial is often used as filler, and should be grown in dry-to-medium, well drained soils. Homeowner might want to use this short stonecrop as a front border or in their rock gardens.
Blue Oat Grass. Common in the southwest and the rockies, helictotrichon sempervirens, is a european grass that is often used as an accent plant. Growing to about 2 feet tall to 3 feet wide, this striking plant with blue-gray blades works best in drier soils.
Cape Blanco. Otherwise known as sedum spathulifolium, this stonecrop species is used a lot as groundcover, as edging and in rock gardens. The blue and green rosettes add an interesting aesthetic to any landscape. Plus, part of its appeal is that it requires little care.
Fernleaf Lavender. If you want to add a touch of the mediterranean, then consider this slender purple foliage. Also known as lavandula multifada, Egyptian Lavender and lavandula pubescens, this colorful annual is known for requiring minimal watering. This beautiful bloom adds a pop of color to any design scheme.
Saw Palmetto. This hardy tree is often found in Florida. It goes by several names including the scientific serenoa repens, Silver Saw Palmetto Palm and the Scrub Palm. From the Arecaceae, this green shrub features leaves that fan out, which can make for an interesting addition to any outdoor setting. If you decide to go with this plant, be sure it is exposed to full sun or partial shade.
Sempervivum. Similar in looks as an artichoke, this green, gray with hints of pink plant can grow up to 2 feet in height, and works well in Zones 2-24.
Sunset Strain. Pretty in pink and orange is this beautiful bloom found in the western part of the United States, an area known for its dry, drought spells from time to time. Perfect for Zones 1-7 and 14-17, this foliage, also known as lewisia cotyledon, enhances any rock garden.
Voodoo. Don’t let the name of this burgundy beauty scare you. In fact, the sedum spurium is a captivating choice to show off in your summer garden with its boldly hued flowers, and interesting texture. This stonecrop lays low to the ground and requires little care apart from regular watering.
Do you live in an area that is susceptible to drought? Have you considered any of these plants and flowers for your landscape? If not, make sure that you add these weather-resistant plants to your list the next time you stop by the GardenSmith Plant Shop!