Drought resistant plants for a water-wise garden

Looking to create a drought tolerant garden full of vibrant life? There are a number of Australian native plants, as well as some exotics, that can survive on little water.

Gardening in Australia can be tough; the driest continent on earth has only small parts of land that are able to support lush, green gardens like those we see in Europe. Many of the water-hungry plants that have traditionally been seen in our gardens are not really suitable for the dry conditions here. And with water restrictions set to stay, if you want to ensure a healthy garden, it's time to start thinking about drought resistant plants.

Australian native plants for drought conditions

The most drought resistant plants of all are indigenous to the drier parts of Australia. These plants have evolved to be able to survive and prosper with very little water and in sometimes extreme conditions. This group of plants includes grasses, groundcovers, shrubs and trees.

When selecting a plant with drought tolerance, look for varieties with small, hard or hairy leaves. And then of course there are succulents and cacti. With their water-storing stems and leaves, they are making a comeback in gardening in Australia.

Exotic drought tolerant plants

But it's not only Australian native plants that survive well on little water. Many drought resistant plants that come from parts of the world with similar conditions to Australia can also do well here. Plants from the Mediterranean (such as rosemary, lavender and thyme), California (agave), Mexico (Mexican orange blossom) and South Africa (African daisy and treasure flower) all prosper in dry conditions.

Many exotic plants that are associated with traditional gardens are also quite drought tolerant, such as camellias, ornamental pears, Chinese lanterns, rhododendrons, gardenias and, of course, roses. Once established, many of these plants are as tough as old boots.

Caring for drought tolerant plants

Just because a plant is tolerant of dry conditions doesn't mean that you can plant it and forget it. Plant varieties with drought resistance can get by on very little water and maintenance, but a bit of extra attention can ensure that they prosper.

When watering, make sure you provide the plants with a good long drink occasionally, rather than short drinks; and water in the evening and morning rather than during the day. This will ensure they are better able to cope with those inevitable times when they receive almost no water.

Because Australia is such a huge and diverse continent, the best way to choose plants for gardening success in Australia is to ask your local nursery, or consult a horticultural specialist. They will be able to direct you to drought tolerant plants that will bring vibrant life to your garden without sucking up huge amounts of water: