People who live in areas that are prone to long periods of time with little to no precipitation need to choose drought-resistant plants if they are planning on landscaping areas of their lawn. There are several different species of plants that are thrive in areas where extreme temperatures and lack of moisture are common. Where the plants are located and how they are placed will also play a role in how well they thrive. With a little research, a homeowner can create a virtual oasis using only drought-resistant plants and a few creative decorating ideas.
Grasses
While most lawn grasses need excessive amounts of water to survive, decorative grasses can thrive on much less. A few of the most common grasses used in landscaping include:
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Nassella tenuissima is a decorative grass found in Mexico and Texas that thrives on very little moisture. It grows to approximately 24 inches in height and is known for its long, whispy blades.
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Helitotrichon sempervirens is a blueish green grass that is originally from the Mediterranean. It grows in large clumps and makes an excellent backdrop for other types of colorful foliage.
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Japanese decorative grasses also work well in drought prone areas.
Grasses work well when used to fill in areas that create boundaries or to divide sections of landscaping.
Shrubs and Ground Cover
Drought-resistant plants can be used to divide or cover large areas. Shrubs and plants that are used as ground cover can reduce the amount of decorative stone or wood chips that are needed as filler without increasing the amount of water needed to sustain the garden.
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Sedum rupestre (Angelina) is a succulent form of ground cover. It produces fluffy, full coverage and grows very well with limited amounts of moisture.
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Sedum spathulifoleum grows close to the ground and provides thick, full coverage.
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Sedum Spurium is another low growing ground cover. This one, however, has reddish blooms that bloom during the summer months. It spreads quickly and covers completely.
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Cacti are not necessarily considered a shrub or ground cover, but they can be planted close together and will continue to spread if they are not disturbed. As a form of succulent, a cactus can thrive in almost desert conditions, and in some cases, produce beautiful, vibrantly colored flowers.
Including shrubs and ground cover in your landscaped area provides variety and can give the entire landscaped area a very unique look. Talk to you local florist or nursery specialist and find out what type of shrubs and ground cover plants work best together. By researching the different types of plants, you will be able to choose the ones that work best for your area and the type of landscaping you are planning on using.
Perennials
Perennials can provide you with an abundance of color and textures. A perennial returns year after year and requires little in the way of repetitive care, other than watering. A few of the most common drought resistant perennials include:
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Yarrow
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Silver Artemisias
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Purple Coneflower
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Rosemary
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Thyme Lavender
Many herbs are perennials and provide both color and culinary benefits. They can easily be included in the landscaped area and harvested as they are needed throughout the year. As drought-resistant plants, they are extremely beneficial because they have additional uses other than just being for decoration. If you want, your entire landscaped area can revolve around plants you need for the kitchen.
Drought-resistant plants can be used in almost any combination. Many have multiple uses and don't have to be replanted year after year. Taking the time to learn about the plants that are available to your area and will thrive in extreme conditions will help you create the perfect landscaped area. Learn more about how to plan your backyard landscape design or view some ideas for drought-tolerant landscaping.
