The Southern California forecast in June? Warm with plenty of sunshine.
In October? Still warm with plenty of sunshine.
A summer thunderstorm is a rare sight in a region that blends desert landscapes with more temperate zones.
Los Angeles wouldn’t exist without imported Colorado River water and the Los Angeles Aqueduct, which transports water from the Owens Valley over 200 miles away. There simply isn’t enough rainfall and H20 in the ground to sustain millions of people.
How Much Water Does a Standard Lawn Need vs. a Xeriscape?
A traditional grass lawn can use up to 1.5 inches of water per week during the growing season, amounting to approximately 62 gallons per square foot annually. When you scale that up to the size of a typical yard, the water use becomes substantial.
On the other hand, xeriscaping — a landscaping method designed for water efficiency — leverages drought-tolerant plants, mulch, and efficient irrigation systems to reduce water consumption by up to 50–75% compared to traditional lawns.
A well-planned xeriscape can require as little as 10 gallons of water per square foot annually, making it an excellent option for conserving water without sacrificing aesthetics.
Not only do drought-tolerant plants need less water, they’re much easier to maintain and less susceptible to pests and disease. Woo-hoo!
How to Design a Drought-Tolerant Landscape
- Opt for plants native to California. They’re naturally adapted to the local environment.
- Mulching helps retain soil moisture, reducing water demands.
- Position plants with similar water requirements together to avoid over- or underwatering.
- Choose well-draining soil to prevent root rot and support plants that love dry conditions.
- Consider drip irrigation to deliver water directly to the soil, minimizing evaporation.
Now, on to the plants!
1. California Poppy (Eschscholzia californica)
This iridescent orange state flower is rugged, beautiful, and incredibly drought-tolerant.
- Best features: Self-seeding, low-maintenance, and flourishes in sunny areas.
- Ideal for: Flower beds and native landscaping.
The California State flower is rugged, beautiful, and incredibly drought-tolerant.
2. Lavender (Lavandula spp.)
Known for its fragrance and vibrant purple blooms, lavender thrives in dry, sunny spots.
- Best features: Attracts pollinators, repels pests, and can serve as a natural air freshener.
- Ideal for: Border plants or garden edges.
Lavender attracts pollinators, repels pests, and can serve as a natural air freshener.
3. California Lilac (Ceanothus spp.)
This stunning shrub offers bursts of blue flowers and requires minimal water.
- Best features: Can grow as a ground cover or a full shrub; supports native bees.
- Ideal for: Sloped areas and erosion control.
The California lilac offers bursts of blue flowers and requires minimal water.
4. Succulents
These plants come in endless varieties and need almost no water.
- Best features: Add texture to your garden; virtually indestructible.
- Ideal for: Rock gardens, containers, or as fillers in landscaping.
Closeup of an aloe vera succulent.
5. Manzanita (Arctostaphylos spp.)
Manzanita is striking and resilient with its smooth, rich red bark and evergreen leaves.
- Best features: Bears fruit that attracts birds; withstands extreme drought.
- Ideal for: Hedges or natural-looking landscapes.
The rich red bark and silvery foliage of a manzanita tree.
6. Agave (Agave spp.)
These architectural gems store water in their thick leaves, making them perfect for arid environments.
- Best features: Low maintenance; produces dramatic blooms once in its lifecycle.
- Ideal for: Focal points or desert-themed gardens.
These beautiful blue agave plants also make mighty fine tequila!
7. Sage (Salvia spp.)
Sage is a must-have for its aromatic leaves and vibrant flowers that attract pollinators.
- Best features: Comes in various species, including culinary sage and ornamental varieties like purple and white sage.
- Ideal for: Wildflower gardens or herb gardens.
Sage plants in bloom.
8. Yarrow (Achillea millefolium)
With its delicate, fern-like leaves and clusters of flowers, yarrow adapts well to poor, dry soils.
- Best features: Attracts butterflies and beneficial insects; spreads quickly as ground cover.
- Ideal for: Filling gaps in garden beds or creating natural meadows.
The delicate white flowers of a yarrow plant.
9. Bougainvillea (Bougainvillea spp.)
This climbing plant explodes with color and grows like gangbusters in dry, hot conditions.
- Best features: Virtually pest-free and drought-resilient.
- Ideal for: Trellises, walls, or fences.
The brilliant papery bracts of the bougainvillea plant.
10. Desert Marigold (Baileya multiradiata)
Its sunny yellow blooms bring instant cheer to any dry landscape.
- Best features: Flowers almost year-round and requires little upkeep.
- Ideal for: Dry, rocky soil or desert-themed gardens.
Desert marigold flowers in the wild.
11. Red Yucca (Hesperaloe parviflora)
This “faux yucca” provides yucca-like charm with coral-pink blooms.
- Best features: Attracts hummingbirds and tolerates extreme heat.
- Ideal for: Xeriscaping or accent pieces in garden beds.
The brilliant crimson flowers of a red yucca plant.
12. Oleander (Nerium oleander)
This hardy shrub offers brilliant flowers and stays evergreen all year.
- Best features: Withstands neglect, heat, and drought.
- Ideal for: Hedges or privacy screens.
A closeup of oleander blossoms.
Transform Your Garden Today
By incorporating drought-tolerant plants, you can enjoy a beautiful, eco-friendly outdoor space that saves water and supports California’s unique ecosystem.
Follow our outlined steps to create a lush, sustainable garden, even in harsh conditions.
Do you need any help choosing the best plants for your space? Contact your local Anawalt garden expert for personalized advice. It’s time to grow smarter and greener!
FAQs: Drought-Tolerant Plants
Q: Can drought-tolerant plants survive without any watering?
Most drought-tolerant plants still need occasional watering to establish roots, especially during their first year. After that, they require minimal water.
Q: Are all succulents drought-tolerant?
Most succulents are drought-tolerant, but some prefer partial shade to avoid sunburn in extreme heat.
Q: How do I prevent weeds in my drought-tolerant garden?
Apply mulch around plants to suppress weeds and retain soil moisture.
Q: Can drought-tolerant plants survive frost?
Some, like lavender and yarrow, tolerate light frost. Others, like bougainvillea, may need frost protection.
Q: Do drought-tolerant plants attract pests?
Many repel pests naturally. Lavender, for instance, deters mosquitoes and flies.
Q: Should I fertilize drought-tolerant plants?
Most do well without fertilizer. If necessary, use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer once a year.
Q: Can I grow drought-tolerant plants in containers?
Many, like succulents and agave, thrive in containers with well-draining soil.
Q: How do I know if my soil suits drought-tolerant plants?
Test your soil for good drainage. Amend heavy clay with sand or compost for better results.