Long-Flowering, Low-Maintenance Perennials
Hardy Geraniums (Cranesbills)
These classic garden perennials are a must for low-maintenance borders and bloom prolifically from spring into late summer with minimal care, their ability to tolerate dry conditions makes them ideal for gardeners who want color without the fuss.
With violet-blue flowers adored by bees, catmint is both ornamental and practical, it forms soft, aromatic mounds of foliage and thrives even in poor, dry soils, you can also trim it back after flowering for a second flush of blooms.
A hardy perennial that grows well with other shrubs in borders and attracts bees and butterflies. English lavender is a popular aromatic, drought-tolerant variety, other lavenders such as French lavender are not so hardy and often need replacing every few years.
Yarrow is incredibly tough., and feathery foliage and flat-topped flower heads in shades of white, yellow, and pink., its deep fibrous roots make it highly drought-tolerant, and it actually prefers poorer soils.
Sedums, or stonecrops, are a staple of drought-tolerant gardens, their fleshy, succulent leaves store water, and their late-summer flower domes attract pollinators.
Echinacea thrives in full sun and dry conditions. They are loved for their bold daisy-like blooms and pair beautifully with ornamental grasses.
With its dainty daisies that flower continuously from spring to frost, Erigeron is a cheerful ground-hugger that happily self-seeds in cracks and dry corners.
Tall, airy stems topped with clusters of purple flowers make this verbena a garden favourite. Drought-tolerant and nectar-rich, it’s great for pollinators and adds height to borders.
Aromatic Herbs & Subshrubs
Sage (Salvia officinalis)
This sun-loving herb thrives in dry conditions and poor soil. Not only does sage provide fragrant foliage and beautiful purple blooms, but it also attracts pollinators and can be harvested for the kitchen.
A striking silver-leaved perennial with spires of lavender-blue flowers that tolerate dry conditions and is perfect for sunny borders.
While not true geraniums, pelargoniums are popular bedding plants that thrive in hot, dry conditions, their bright flowers and scented leaves make them ideal for pots and window boxes.
Climbers & Trees
Star Jasmine (Trachelospermum jasminoides)
This waxy-leaved evergreen climber offers fragrant white flowers and year-round interest. Star jasmine prefers a sunny, sheltered spot and, once established, is surprisingly drought-tolerant, just water it well in its first season.
If you’re looking to plant a tree in a dry area, silver birch is a great option. Its delicate, shimmering leaves and graceful form bring lightness to any garden. Once mature, it can cope with dry spells and provides dappled shade.
Tips for Success with Drought-Tolerant Plants
- Even drought-tolerant plants need well-drained soil, amend heavy clay with grit or compost.
- Water deeply but infrequently to encourage roots to grow deeper.
- A good layer of mulch retains moisture and keeps roots cool.
- Even tough plants need regular watering during their first season while establishing.
Happy planting!