Edited by David Mizejewski, National Wildlife Federation Naturalist
When we think of drought, our minds usually jump straight to the West or Southwest. But as shifting weather patterns bring longer, hotter dry spells to regions all over the country, water conservation is no longer just a regional issue—it is a nationwide priority.
Heading into spring, more than 40% of the United States is in drought, affecting 47 states. Whether you are gardening in California, Colorado, or the Carolinas, we are all looking for ways to keep our landscapes lush and full of life without constantly running the hose. Enter Xeriscaping.
While the word might conjure up images of barren rock gardens or sparse cacti, xeriscaping is simply a style of landscaping designed to minimize or eliminate the need for irrigation. And the secret to doing it beautifully isn't gravel—it’s native plants.
The core principle of xeriscaping is planting species that are naturally adapted to your local ecosystem and precipitation levels.
Unlike non-native turf grass or exotic ornamentals that often require constant life support, native plants have evolved over thousands of years to thrive in your specific climate conditions. They often feature deep, extensive root systems that allow them to access moisture far below the soil surface, making them incredibly resilient.
The magic of native plants is that, generally speaking, once they are established, you don't need to water them again. They are designed to survive on the natural rainfall of your region.
Note: "Established" usually takes about one year of regular watering after planting. After that first year, you can largely put away the hose.
While native plants are tough, they aren't invincible. With climate change creating more frequent and intense heat waves, even the hardiest natives might need a helping hand.
If you are experiencing an extreme heat event and notice your plants wilting, give them a drink. Even in a xeriscape, we have to adapt to the changing weather patterns to keep our wildlife habitats healthy.
So, which plants are tough enough to handle these extremes? We have taken the guesswork out of the equation with these curated kits.
Ready to swap your thirsty lawn for a vibrant, drought-tolerant habitat? We have curated specific collections designed to thrive in water-scarce regions.
Looking for some shrubs and hardy perennials to add to those collections? Here are five individual 'Xeriscape All-Stars' that define resilience in the West.
1. The Desert Icon: Soapweed Yucca (Yucca glauca)
Why it works: It is virtually indestructible once established, thriving in poor, sandy, or rocky soils where other plants fail. Plus, it sends up massive flower spikes that are a beacon for moths and pollinators.
2. The Late-Season Hero: Rubber Rabbitbrush (Ericameria nauseosa)
Why it works: It creates a massive visual impact when the garden needs it most. It’s incredibly cold-hardy and drought-tolerant, making it a staple for the intermountain West. Plus, the silvery-green foliage looks great year-round.
3. The "Apricot" Stunner: Desert Globemallow (Sphaeralcea ambigua)
Why it works: It loves the heat. While other plants wilt in the intense afternoon sun of the Southwest, Globemallow thrives. It’s a fast-growing perennial that fills space quickly.
4. The Aromatic Keystone: White Sage (Salvia apiana)
Why it works: It’s a critical species for pollinators, specifically large carpenter bees and bumblebees. Its extreme drought tolerance makes it a centerpiece for any water-wise garden.
5. The Monarch Magnet: Antelope Horn Milkweed (Asclepias asperula)
Why it works: It’s much tougher than the non-native tropical milkweed often sold in big-box stores. It’s adapted to dry, rocky slopes and offers fascinating, intricate green-and-purple flowers that are a conversation starter.
With durable, vibrant living options like these available, the argument for synthetic alternatives simply doesn't hold up.
In the quest to save water, some homeowners turn to artificial turf. While it might seem like a quick fix, fake grass creates an "ecological dead zone." It offers no food or shelter for wildlife, contributes to the "heat island" effect (getting dangerously hot in the sun), and eventually ends up as plastic waste in landfills.
Xeriscaping with native plants offers the best of both worlds: you conserve water and create a cooling, living habitat that supports local biodiversity.
You don't need a green thumb to save water; you just need the right plants. By choosing species adapted to your local region, you can create a stunning, sustainable landscape that thrives—rain or shine.