Drought-Tolerant Flower Bulbs

Iris

• Iris bulbs include full-size and dwarf varieties. Most iris flowers grow well with at least six hours of full sun each day in well-drained soil. A few varieties, such as Japanese iris and the Louisiana iris, prefer moist soil. Afternoon shade aids the flowers in keeping their vibrant colors from waning over time. Many iris varieties have large flowers that range in color from blue and purple to white and yellow. Some varieties of iris are as short at 6 inches, while others reach heights of more than 20 inches.

Amaryllis

• Amaryllis flowers grow in many colors, including pink, red, orange, salmon and white. Some varieties have two colors, while others are a single color. These drought-tolerant bulbs produce flowers that are shaped like the horn of a trumpet. Amaryllis plants bloom in the spring and are not particular about the soil in the garden if it drains well to avoid soggy conditions. These flowering bulbs are common members of outdoor and indoor gardens.

Tulips

• Tulips are a drought-tolerant plant that produces colorful flowers for one or more growing seasons, depending on location. In the United States, tulips grow well for one season but are difficult to obtain a second or third season, even though the flowers are perennial. Many varieties of tulips are available in colors of white, red, maroon, pink, apricot and yellow. Some flowers are a solid color, while others are striped or have a color change at the tips. Tulip plants can reach heights of 30 inches, making them a striking addition to a spring garden.

Crocus

• Crocus flowers bloom from late winter through spring. Often, these are the first of the bulb flowers to bloom in the season. These drought-tolerant bulbs enjoy full sun or partially shaded areas of your garden. These shorter bulbs grow in a variety of colors, such as purple, white and yellow, and have a cup-like shape.

Daffodils

• Numerous varieties of daffodils exist in gardens throughout the country. These drought-tolerant, perennial bulbs often have white or yellow flowers with a bell shape. The tallest varieties reach heights of 16 inches. Like other bulbs, daffodils prefer well-drained soil in a location that receives at least six hours of sun per day.