As climate change continues to impact our planet, concerns about water usage and drought-tolerant gardening have become more prevalent. Fortunately, there are many beautiful plants that thrive in dry conditions and require minimal watering. While succulents and cacti are well-known for their ability to survive in arid climates, there are many other underrated plants that can also add interest and beauty to a drought-tolerant landscape. In this article, we will explore ten of the best drought-tolerant plants that are often overlooked but deserve more attention.

1. Red Yucca (Hesperaloe parviflora)

Red yucca is a stunning plant that produces tall spikes of coral-colored flowers in the summer and fall. Despite its name, it is not actually related to the true yucca plant, but rather a member of the agave family. Red yucca is drought-tolerant, low-maintenance, and attracts hummingbirds with its nectar-rich blooms. It can be used as a focal point in a xeriscape garden or planted in groups for a dramatic effect.

2. Blue-Eyed Grass (Sisyrinchium spp.)

Blue-eyed grass is a small, clumping perennial that produces delicate blue or purple flowers in the spring and summer. It is native to North America and thrives in dry conditions. Blue-eyed grass is often used as a ground cover or border plant in xeriscape gardens. It is also edible, with a slightly sweet flavor, and can be added to salads or used as a garnish.

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3. Desert Willow (Chilopsis linearis)

Desert willow is a deciduous tree or large shrub that produces beautiful, trumpet-shaped flowers in shades of pink and purple. It is native to the southwestern United States and is drought-tolerant, low-maintenance, and attracts bees and hummingbirds. Desert willow can be pruned to maintain a smaller size, making it a great choice for small gardens or as a focal point in a larger xeriscape garden.

4. Golden Barrel Cactus (Echinocactus grusonii)

The golden barrel cactus is a striking plant with a round, spiny shape and bright yellow color. It is native to Mexico and can grow up to three feet tall and wide. The golden barrel cactus is drought-tolerant and low-maintenance, making it a great choice for xeriscape gardens or as a focal point in a rock garden. It is also one of the easiest cacti to grow and propagate.

5. Lantana (Lantana spp.)

Lantana is a versatile and colorful plant that produces clusters of small flowers in shades of red, orange, yellow, and pink. It is native to tropical regions but is often used in xeriscape gardens for its drought-tolerant properties. Lantana is also a magnet for butterflies and hummingbirds, making it a great choice for wildlife gardens.

6. Manzanita (Arctostaphylos spp.)

Manzanita is a family of evergreen shrubs and trees native to the western United States. They are drought-tolerant and low-maintenance, with beautiful bark and delicate, bell-shaped flowers. Manzanitas are often used in xeriscape gardens as a focal point or as a hedge. They also produce edible berries that were prized by Native American tribes.

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7. Mexican Feather Grass (Nassella tenuissima)

Mexican feather grass is a graceful, fine-textured ornamental grass that produces delicate, feathery plumes in the summer and fall. It is native to Mexico and the southwestern United States and is drought-tolerant, low-maintenance, and attracts birds. Mexican feather grass can be used as a ground cover or planted in mass for a stunning effect.

8. Penstemon (Penstemon spp.)

Penstemon is a diverse family of plants that produce tubular flowers in shades of red, purple, pink, and white. They are native to North America and thrive in dry conditions. Penstemons are often used in xeriscape gardens as a border plant or mass planted for a colorful display. They are also great for attracting bees and hummingbirds.

9. Redbud (Cercis spp.)

Redbuds are small trees or large shrubs that produce showy, pink or purple flowers in the spring before the leaves emerge. They are native to North America and are drought-tolerant and low-maintenance. Redbuds can be used as a focal point in a xeriscape garden or planted in groups for a stunning effect. They also produce edible seed pods that were used by Native American tribes.

10. Yarrow (Achillea spp.)

Yarrow is a hardy perennial that produces clusters of small flowers in shades of pink, yellow, and white. It is native to Europe but has naturalized throughout much of North America. Yarrow is drought-tolerant, low-maintenance, and attracts butterflies and bees. It can be used as a border plant or mass planted for a colorful display.

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In conclusion, there are many underrated plants that are well-suited for a drought-tolerant landscape. These plants not only add beauty and interest but also require minimal watering and maintenance. By incorporating these ten plants into your xeriscape garden, you can create a stunning and sustainable outdoor space that is both beautiful and environmentally friendly.

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