Drought Tolerant Perennial Plants

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Hosta

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Andropogon

Andropogon g. 'Blackhawks' PP27949 (30)ct Flat

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Armeria

Armeria maritime 'Victor Reiter' (10)ct Flat

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Artemisia

Artemisia 'Silver Lining' PPAF (20)ct Flat

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Artemisia

Artemisia schmidtiana 'Silver Mound' (25) BR Plants

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Asclepias

Asclepias incarnata 'Cinderella' (25) BR Plants

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Asclepias

Asclepias t. 'Hello Yellow' (30)ct Flat

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Asclepias

Asclepias tuberosa (25) BR Plants

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Asclepias

Asclepias tuberosa (30)ct Flat

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Asclepias

Asclepias tuberosa (4) 1-gallons

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Baptisia

Baptisia 'American Goldfinch' PP30478 (25) BR Plants

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Baptisia

Baptisia 'Blueberry Sundae' PP23891 (25) BR Plants

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Baptisia

Baptisia 'Burgundy Blast' PP34689 (25) BR Plants

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Andropogon

Andropogon g. 'Blackhawks' PP27949 (30)ct Flat

Andropogon gerardii 'Blackhawks' PP27949 (30)ct FlatCommon Name: Big Bluestem, Ornamental Grass Big Bluestem are perfect for providing height and color to the garden, coming into prime a little earlier than other ornamental grasses. The foliage of...

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Armeria

Armeria maritime 'Victor Reiter' (10)ct Flat

Armeria maritima 'Victor Reiter' (10)ct Flat Common name: Thrift-Common, Sea Pink, Sea Thrift. Zones 4 to 8. Full sun to part shade. Plants reach 4 inches tall and 8 inches wide, slow spreading, grassy evergreen mound. Herbaceous perennial Grassy,...

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Artemisia

Artemisia 'Silver Lining' PPAF (20)ct Flat

Artemisia 'Silver Lining' PPAF - Proven Winners®(20)ct Flat Common Name: White Sagebrush, ArtemisiaA hybrid of native North American species including Artemisia ludoviciana. 'Silver Lining' finds the best in its parentage as a spectacular, durable...

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Artemisia

Artemisia schmidtiana 'Silver Mound' (25) BR Plants

Artemisia schmidtiana 'Silver Mound' (25) Bare Root Plants Aptly named, 'Silver Mound' has soft, feathery foliage and forms a compact, silky, cushion-like mound. It has many applications in the garden including: edging, rock gardens, pots, or a filler...

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Asclepias

Asclepias incarnata 'Cinderella' (25) BR Plants

Asclepias incarnata 'Cinderella' (25) Bare Root Plants Common Name: Swamp Milkweed; A virtually hassle-free perennial, offering three months of vanilla scented, rose pink flowers in large, compact clusters from midsummer to early fall. Deadheading...

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Asclepias

Asclepias t. 'Hello Yellow' (30)ct Flat

Asclepias tuberosa 'Hello Yellow' (30)ct Flat Common Name: Butterfly Weed, pleurisy root. This hassle-free perennial will provide three months of golden yellow blooms from early through late summer. Deadheading the flowers will stimulate another bloom...

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Now: $183.26
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Asclepias

Asclepias tuberosa (25) BR Plants

Asclepias tuberosa (25) Bare Root PlantsCommon Name: Butterfly Weed A virtually hassle-free, very long lived perennial, offering three months of tangerine orange blooms (occasionally red or yellow) from early through late summer. Deadheading the flowers...

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Now: $195.56
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Asclepias

Asclepias tuberosa (30)ct Flat

Asclepias tuberosa (30)ct Flat Common Name: Butterfly Weed, pleurisy root. A virtually hassle-free, very long lived perennial, offering three months of tangerine orange blooms (occasionally red or yellow) from early through late summer. Deadheading...

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Now: $180.13
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Asclepias

Asclepias tuberosa (4) 1-gallons

Asclepias tuberosa (4) 1-gallons Common Name: Butterfly Weed, pleurisy root. Zones 3 to 9. Full sun. Plants reach 24 inches tall and 24 inches wide. Herbaceous perennial. This hassle-free perennial will provide three months of tangerine orange...

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Now: $115.20
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Baptisia

Baptisia 'American Goldfinch' PP30478 (25) BR Plants

Baptisia 'American Goldfinch' PP30478 (25) Bare Root Plants Common name: Indigo-Blue. Nothing says American like this big, bold, and beautiful native cultivar, which will make a dramatic statement in your garden come late spring. Gorgeous, golden...

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Baptisia

Baptisia 'Blueberry Sundae' PP23891 (25) BR Plants

Baptisia 'Blueberry Sundae' PP23891 CPBR5095 (25) Bare Root PlantsDECADENCE® SeriesCommon Name: False IndigoDeep indigo blue flowers much more vibrant than B. australis and a perfect plant habit are the key features of this new variety. An...

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Baptisia

Baptisia 'Burgundy Blast' PP34689 (25) BR Plants

Baptisia 'Burgundy Blast' PP34689 (25) Bare Root PlantsCommon Name: False Indigo A color break for False Indigo! The shade of purple is redder than the typical purple Baptisia. Dark wine purple flowers are produced over very dark blue-green foliage. When...

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Drought Tolerant Perennial Plants Characteristics:

Succulent leaves or stems: These plants can store water in their tissues, allowing them to withstand dry periods.
Deep roots: Deep roots enable plants to access water from deeper soil layers.
Waxy cuticles: A waxy coating on the leaves helps reduce water loss.
Small leaves: Smaller leaves can reduce the surface area exposed to the sun, minimizing water loss through transpiration.

Soil: Use well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Avoid heavy clay soils that can retain too much moisture.
Light: Most drought-tolerant perennials prefer full sun, but some can tolerate partial shade.
Water: While these plants are drought-tolerant, they still require occasional watering, especially during extended dry periods. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.

If your garden has all day sun exposure, your landscape does not include irrigation, or there are water restriction concerns, consider a garden that focuses on drought-tolerant plants. However, a perennial plant will require water to establish itself, only when they have well-established roots will they tolerate drought.
While many drought-tolerant plants are also tolerant of poor-to-average soils, soils that are high in organic matter will help plants both establish themselves and survive periods of drought. Spending efforts to improve soil conditions will improve the gardens performance, but most drought tolerant perennials prefer soils that are well-drained.

Mulches are a prime gardening technique to reduce water evaporation. Not only will mulch assist the water problem, it adds organic matter to the soils and reduces weeds.

Water less often, with more water. Increasing the amount of water, when you do water, allows it to penetrate deeper and naturally improves the depth of the plants root system. Water early in the morning when temperatures are cooler to minimize evaporation.

Ornamental Grasses: Calamagrostis, Erianthus, Festuca, Helictotrichon, Panicum, Pennisetum, Schizachyrium, Sorghastrum, and Sporobolus.

What are the characteristics of Drought Tolerant Perennial Plants?

Drought-tolerant perennial plants are superstars when it comes to surviving and thriving in dry conditions. They have developed a number of clever adaptations to help them conserve water and make the most of what little rainfall they receive. Here are some of the key characteristics that make them stand out:

Water-Wise Adaptations:

Deep Root Systems: Many drought-tolerant perennials have deep roots that delve deep into the soil, allowing them to tap into underground water reserves that other plants cannot reach.
Waxy or Hairy Leaves: Some have leaves coated with a waxy layer or covered in fine hairs. This helps to reduce water loss through transpiration, the process by which plants release water vapor into the air.
Small or Fewer Leaves: Some species have smaller leaves or fewer leaves overall, reducing the surface area from which water can evaporate.
Succulent Stems and Leaves: Some store water in their fleshy stems and leaves, acting like reservoirs during dry periods.
Rolling or Drooping Leaves: Certain plants have leaves that can roll up or droop during hot, dry weather, further minimizing water loss.

Efficient Water Usage:

Closing Stomata: During periods of drought, some plants can close tiny pores on their leaves called stomata. This helps to prevent water loss while still allowing essential gas exchange for photosynthesis.
Reduced Photosynthesis: Some species can temporarily slow down their photosynthesis process during dry spells to conserve water.

Other Beneficial Traits:

Heat Tolerance: Many drought-tolerant perennials are also heat-tolerant, making them well-suited to hot, dry climates.
Low Maintenance: They generally require less watering and care than other plants, making them ideal for busy gardeners or those living in water-restricted areas.
Long Bloom Times: Many drought-tolerant perennials offer beautiful blooms throughout the season, adding color and interest to your garden even during dry times.

By incorporating these resilient plants into your landscaping, you can create a beautiful and water-efficient garden that thrives even in challenging conditions.

What Are The best Varieties Of Drought Tolerant Perennial Plants?

Choosing the best drought-tolerant perennial plants for your garden depends on several factors, including your climate, desired flower colors and bloom times, and preferred plant characteristics. However, here are some popular and versatile options to consider:

Early Spring Bloomers:

Pasque Flower (Pulsatilla vulgaris): This charming perennial boasts delicate, bell-shaped flowers in shades of purple, blue, and white in early spring. It thrives in well-drained soil and enjoys full sun.
Siberian Iris (Iris sibirica): Showy sword-like foliage complements vibrant blue, purple, or white blooms in late spring to early summer. It tolerates a wide range of soil conditions and prefers full sun to partial shade.
Dianthus (Pinks): These low-growing perennials come in a vast array of colors and offer fragrant, long-lasting blooms from late spring to early summer. They thrive in well-drained soil and full sun.

Summer Bloomers:

Catmint (Nepeta x faassenii): This easy-care perennial produces fragrant lavender-blue flowers throughout summer and attracts pollinators. It tolerates various soil conditions and prefers full sun.
Coneflower (Echinacea purpurea): A classic choice, coneflowers offer daisy-like blooms in shades of purple, pink, and white, attracting butterflies and bees. They thrive in well-drained soil and full sun.
Yarrow (Achillea millefolium): This low-maintenance perennial produces flat clusters of yellow, pink, red, or white flowers all summer long. It tolerates various soil conditions and prefers full sun to partial shade.

Fall Bloomers:

Sedum (Stonecrop): This diverse genus offers a range of drought-tolerant options with various foliage colors and textures. Many varieties produce clusters of star-shaped flowers in late summer to fall. They thrive in well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade.
Goldenrod (Solidago spp.): Often maligned for allergies, goldenrod varieties like Solidago sphacelata offer beautiful golden plumes in fall, attracting beneficial insects. They tolerate various soil conditions and prefer full sun.
Aster (Aster spp.): These late-blooming perennials come in various colors and shapes, adding a vibrant touch to the autumn garden. They thrive in well-drained soil and prefer full sun to partial shade.

Remember, these are just a few examples, and many other drought-tolerant perennials can add beauty and interest to your garden. Consider your specific needs and preferences when making your selections!

Are There Any Common Pests Or Diseases That Affect Drought Tolerant Perennial Plants?

Even drought-tolerant plants are not completely immune to pests and diseases. While their adaptations help them withstand dry conditions, they can still face challenges from various organisms and environmental factors. Here are some common pests and diseases to be aware of for drought-tolerant perennials:

Pests:

Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects suck sap from leaves and stems, stunting growth and causing distortion. While drought might limit their population, they can still be a problem.
Thrips: Tiny, slender insects that feed on flower buds and petals, leaving them scarred and discolored. Their populations can increase during hot, dry weather.
Japanese beetles: These metallic green beetles can skeletonize leaves and damage flowers, especially during their peak feeding times.
Slugs and snails: These slimy creatures munch on leaves and petals, leaving unsightly holes. Their activity can be more prominent during rainy periods after dry spells.
Grubs: The larvae of various beetles can feed on roots, weakening plants, and making them more susceptible to stress.

Diseases:

Powdery mildew: This white fungal growth on leaves reduces photosynthesis and weakens plants. While less common in dry conditions, it can still occur during periods of higher humidity.
Botrytis blight (gray mold): This fungal disease causes soft rot on flowers and stems, especially in humid conditions following dry periods.
Leaf spots: Fungal or bacterial leaf spots appear as discolored areas on leaves, reducing their aesthetic value and potentially affecting photosynthesis. These can be more prevalent during periods of wetness after drought.
Rust: Fungal rust diseases produce orange or brown pustules on leaves, weakening plants and causing defoliation. Similar to leaf spots, these can be more prominent after periods of rain following drought.

Additional Challenges:

Heat stress: Even drought-tolerant plants can suffer from extreme heat, especially if prolonged.
Nutrient deficiencies: Lack of essential nutrients can affect plant growth, flowering, and disease resistance, even in drought-tolerant varieties.
Competition from weeds: Weeds compete with plants for water, nutrients, and sunlight, hindering their growth and flowering, regardless of their drought tolerance.

Management Strategies:

Prevention: Choose resistant varieties, practice good sanitation, and encourage beneficial insects by planting companion flowers.
Monitoring: Regularly inspect your plants for signs of pests and diseases. Early detection is key for effective control.
Cultural practices: Proper watering, fertilization, and spacing can help maintain plant health and reduce disease susceptibility.
Organic controls: Use insecticidal soap, neem oil, or biological control agents like ladybugs when pest populations are low.
Fungicides: Apply fungicides according to label instructions if disease outbreaks occur.
Physical removal: Handpick pests like caterpillars or remove infected leaves and dispose of them properly.

Remember, even drought-tolerant plants require basic care and monitoring to thrive. By staying informed and taking necessary actions, you can help your resilient perennials survive and flourish, even in challenging conditions.

How Do I Care For Drought Tolerant Perennial Plants In My Garden?

Taking care of drought-tolerant perennials in your garden is easier than you might think! Here are some key practices to remember:

Planting and Initial Care:

Choose the right location: Select areas with well-drained soil and adequate sunlight (refer to specific needs of each variety). Amend soil with compost or organic matter if needed.
Plant at the appropriate time: Fall is generally the best planting time for most perennials, allowing them to establish strong root systems before summer heat. Spring planting might also be suitable depending on your climate and specific plants.
Water properly: Water deeply and infrequently during the first year to encourage deep root growth. Gradually reduce watering frequency as plants mature. Avoid shallow, frequent watering, which encourages surface roots that dry out quickly.
Mulch: Apply a 2–3-inch layer of organic mulch around your plants to help retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.
Fertilize moderately: Overfertilizing can lead to weak stems and fewer blooms. Use a balanced fertilizer sparingly according to package instructions and avoid fertilizing in late summer or fall.

Ongoing Care:

Deadheading: Regularly remove spent blooms to encourage repeat blooming and prevent seed formation, which can drain energy from the plant.
Dividing: Some perennials benefit from dividing every 3-5 years to prevent overcrowding and maintain vigor. Divide in spring or fall according to specific needs of the variety.
Monitoring: Regularly inspect your plants for signs of pests, diseases, or stress. Address any issues promptly using organic methods whenever possible.
Winter protection: In colder climates, some drought-tolerant perennials might benefit from winter protection, especially new plantings. Apply a light layer of mulch or evergreen boughs around the base of the plants.

Additional Tips:

Group plants with similar water needs: This simplifies watering and prevents overwatering some plants while underwatering others.
Use drought-tolerant companion plants: Interplanting with other water-wise plants adds visual interest and promotes a healthy ecosystem.
Collect rainwater: Utilize rain barrels or other methods to collect rainwater for watering your plants, especially during extended dry periods.
Adjust watering based on weather: Increase watering slightly during periods of extreme heat or prolonged drought but avoid overwatering.

By following these simple guidelines, you can create a beautiful and low-maintenance garden with drought-tolerant perennials that thrive even in dry conditions. Remember, observing your plants and adapting your care based on their individual needs and your specific climate will ensure their long-term health and beauty.

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