Perennial Xeriscaping Plants

Gaillardia

• The blanket flower (Gaillardia pulchella), also called Indian blanket and firewheel, is native to the Central U.S. It is equally at home on a prairie or on the beach. It blooms from May to September in shades of red, yellow and orange, and covers large areas quickly by reseeding itself. Gaillardia grows best where it grows wild, such as in open fields or meadows. It can be tamed enough to be an excellent ground cover in traditional gardens.

Daylily

• Daylilies (Hemerocallis spp.) are hardy to 5 degrees Fahrenheit and are sometimes found growing wild in ditches along the sides of country roads, giving them the common name ditch lily. They prefer full sun, but adapt to only morning sun. Although they bloom better when watered during the bloom season, these tough plants bloom and thrive with very little water overall. Once established, they need little or no special care. With hundreds of hybrids available, daylilies can come in many shapes, sizes and colors. Using the daylily in mass plantings on slopes prevents erosion.

Salvia

• Salvias are some of the most versatile and interesting members of the mint family. Also called sages, these plants are so easy they almost grow themselves. Some species, such as the Mexican sage and California coastal sage, grow into large shrubs. There are salvias native to many countries in the world ranging from 4 inches to 6 feet tall with different-colored flowers. Some sages are edible, and some have medicinal qualities.

Hosta

• Hostas are an acceptable choice for waterwise gardens. While they like some shade, they do not thrive in deep shade. Hostas like rich, organic, well-draining soil. Their leaves come in many sizes, textures, colors, and shapes from solid to variegated. There are miniature hostas for small spaces. Hosta blooms are spikes of white-to-lavender lilylike flowers, which appear in the summer. Some varieties have fragrant blooms.