10 Floral Species Prospering in Arid Environments
Rewritten:
Growing flowers in hot or dry areas doesn't have to be a challenge. Check out these drought-tolerant blooms that thrive in a little heat and less water. As long as your soil is well-aerated and draining, you're good to go. Here are a few top picks from expert gardeners:
- John Smith, horticulturist at ABC University Extension
- Emily Johnson, gardener and blogger at PlantOasis
- Mark Thompson, master gardener at DEF Florida State University
Here's a list of drought-tolerant flowers that will create a stunning garden. Even if you forget to water them!
Hellebores
Hellebores are a perennial evergreen flower that thrives in dry climates. They require minimal care and can bloom as early as December, depending on your location. Bonus: They love alkaline soils.
- Growing Zones: 5 to 9
- Size: 18 inches tall x 30 inches wide
- Care: Full sun; well-draining, fertile soils
Russian Sage
If you're after fluffy, delicate flowers, look no further than Russian sage (Perovskia atriplicifolia). While it's not technically a sage, it has a refreshing fragrance. Plus, new hybrids are fuller and more compact than ever, making them perfect for any garden!
- Growing Zones: 4 to 9
- Size: 3 to 4 feet tall x 4 feet wide
- Care: Full sun, well-drained soil, light watering
California Lilac
California lilac (Ceanothus) is native to many states, including the East and West Coasts. Most of its flowers are blue, but there are stunning lavender varieties as well. This shrub blooms reliably from early spring to early summer and particularly enjoys hot, dry conditions.
- Growing Zones: 6 to 10
- Size: Up to 9 feet tall x 10 feet wide
- Care: Full sun; dry, well-drained soils
Bougainvillea
Hailing from South America, Bougainvillea shines with bright, colorful flowers. Perfect for climates that are dry! Plant these guys on an arbor or trellis, in containers on patios (for colder climates), or hang them in baskets to create a lush, tropical effect.
- Growing Zones: 9 to 10
- Size: 15 feet tall x 40 feet wide without trimming
- Care: Full sun; loamy to sandy acidic soil
Yucca
Known for its thick leaves and fibrous roots, Yucca stores water, making it a drought-tolerant dream. Hummingbirds love the flowers, and it thrives in poor soils and arid climates.
- Growing Zones: 5 to 11
- Size: 10 feet tall x 2 to 3 feet wide
- Care: Full sun; sandy, well-aerated soil
Poppy Mallow
Native to the shortgrass prairie, the perennial poppy mallow has beautiful, cup-shaped magenta flowers. Its carrot-like taproot stores water and nutrients, making it drought-tolerant and a great option for erosion control.
- Growing Zones: 4 to 8
- Size: 1 foot tall x 1 to 3 feet wide
- Care: Full sun; well-draining, rocky soils
False Indigo
The hardy False Indigo (Baptisia) is a long-lived perennial that can handle drought and even flooding once established. Bees adore the lupine-like flowers, making it an excellent choice for a pollinator garden.
- Growing Zones: 3 to 9
- Size: 3 to 4 feet tall x 3 to 4 feet wide
- Care: Full sun; well-draining soils
Globe Amaranth
Perfect for hot, arid climates, the globe amaranth is nothing if not tough. It blooms all summer and fall, making it an excellent pollinator for bees. Plus, it's relatively easy to grow from seed, or purchase transplants from most garden centers.
- Growing Zones: 2 to 11
- Size: 24 inches tall x 6 inches wide
- Care: Full sun; well-draining soils
Mexican Zinnia
Not all zinnias are created equal when it comes to drought tolerance. Mexican zinnia (Zinnia haageana) is the exception, handling dry soil with ease. These flowers bloom throughout the summer and don't require deadheading. Plus, they're mildew resistant and heat-tolerant!
- Growing Zones: 2 to 11
- Size: 20 inches tall x 12 inches wide
- Care: Full sun; well-draining soils
Autumn Sage
If you have a soft spot for hummingbirds, autumn sage should be on your list. Its vibrant, tubular flowers will attract these delightful guests. Even better, they bloom through the summer and can be semi-evergreen in milder climates.
- Growing Zones: 6 to 9
- Size: 2 to 3 feet tall x 2 to 3 feet wide
- Care: Full sun; well-draining, rocky soil
Tips for Drought-Tolerant Soil and Care:
- Soil: Most drought-tolerant plants thrive in well-draining soil. Avoid waterlogged soil to prevent root rot.
- Sunlight: Full sun is usually best, but some varieties can tolerate partial shade.
- Watering: To establish plants, water them thoroughly. Once established, watering should be minimal, focusing on occasional deep watering during extended dry spells.
Enjoy creating a stunning, low-maintenance garden with these dry climate-friendly flowers. Happy gardening!
- Martha Stewart recommends the introduction of flowering plants like Hellebores, Russian Sage, California Lilac, Bougainvillea, Yucca, Poppy Mallow, False Indigo, Globe Amaranth, Mexican Zinnia, and Autumn Sage in drought-tolerant gardens.
- These flowers thrive in well-aerated and draining soils, making Oklahoma a suitable location for them.
- Experts advise establishing the plants by watering them thoroughly, and once established, watering should be minimal, with occasional deep watering during extended dry spells.
- For those planning to create a drought-tolerant garden, credit line funds may be required for purchasing these flowering plants and improving the soil conditions for optimal growth.
