Xeriscape Plant Guide

Drought-Tolerant Plants

• According to the University of Florida Extension, drought-tolerant plants have evolved to live in arid areas where water is a scarce commodity. They have developed physiological attributes that allow them to thrive in settings where most garden plants would shrivel and die. These include smaller, thicker leaves and root systems that have adapted to efficiently make use of water as it becomes available.

Native Plants

• Whatever your climate, speak to your local county or university extension about plants native to your area. Native plants are an easy win in a xeriscape garden. Already adapted to your climate, native plants require only local rainfall to thrive. They don't require soil modification and are more resistant to local pests. Native plants also support the health and sustainability of your area wildlife and environment.

Trees

• Examples of trees suitable for xeriscape include the gray birch, russian olive, osage orange, plum and honey locust. These trees establish deep root systems to tap sources of water deep underground and, after they are established, they will not require supplemental watering. Appropriate trees for xeriscape vary with geographic areas, and your county extension is a great resource to determine the best trees for your xeriscape.

Shrubs

• Shrubs that thrive in a xeriscape tend to have smaller, thicker leaves to reduce the amount of water lost through evaporation. This does not mean that they are drab or boring. With the right shrub choices, a xeriscape can be alive with color almost year-round. For example, in an area that might normally be used for water-intensive turf, the cotoneaster plant provides fast-spreading groundcover that will produce brilliant red ornamental berries. Flowering quince produces not only vibrant beautiful blooms in spring but also a fruit in fall that makes flavorful jams and jellies. The butterfly bush explodes into blooms that draw lovely winged visitors.

Perrenials

• The selection of perennials for xeriscapes features many traditional favorites. Hedge roses form beautiful natural fences that put on a spectacular displays of blooms throughout spring and summer. Asters, coneflowers, hollyhocks and batchelor's buttons thrive in a xeriscape. Multicolored grasses, such as plume grass, add color and protect more fragile plants from wind. A well-planned xeriscape offers the beauty of an English garden in an environmentally responsible and sustainable form.