Drought Tolerant Shrubs

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Drought tolerant shrubs help you beat the heat in any climate. From creating a xeriscape that needs no irrigation or maintenance to choosing easy-care plantings for difficult soil composition, you’ll love saving time and money on these drought resistant bushes without sacrificing aesthetic beauty.

Russian Sage

Drought Tolerant Flowering Shrubs

If you thought all flowers require lots of water, think again! We carry a variety of flowering shrubs and bushes that can tolerate a range of soil types, including low-moisture areas. Crape myrtle shrubs are one of the most popular drought resistant plants we sell. Browse our inventory for vibrant purple, red, pink, white and more varieties that bring easy-care versatility to your garden. Other sure bets for adding color while withstanding well-drained soil and occasional dryness include Diablo Ninebark, Goldmound Spirea and Double Take Orange™ Quince, which blooms bright orange in spring and is resistant to deer.

Evergreens & Other Plants for Xeriscapes

You can’t beat juniper bushes for multiplying the visual and textural impact of any landscape. These hardy evergreen shrubs thrive in full sun and difficult terrain, like steep slopes and rock gardens. Plus, there are a variety of sizes, heights and hues to choose from. Sunshine Ligustrum brings a ray of yellow happiness to borders or topiary endeavors while tolerating heat, drought, salt and wildlife pests. Another excellent choice for drought, deer and disease resistance is Concorde Barberry, which also delivers velvety foliage in an intense purple-maroon shade.

The Nature Hills Difference

Whether you’re looking for drought resistant shrubs, shade trees or full-sun perennials, Nature Hills Nursery is the place to find the highest quality and best selection available. We guarantee all our plants for their first year of life, and we remain continuously compliant with all local, state and federal regulations as a member of Plant Sentry™. Click on any image to learn more about a specific item or contact our knowledgeable staff for advice. Join thousands of happy customers who get all their planting needs delivered right to their door from Nature Hills.

FAQS for Buying Drought Tolerant Shrubs Online

What are the best drought tolerant shrubs for low-water landscapes?

Top-performing drought tolerant shrubs include Crape Myrtle shrubs, Juniper, Diablo Ninebark, and Goldmound Spirea. These selections provide vibrant flowers or colorful foliage while thriving in hot, dry conditions. Whether you're designing a xeriscape or enhancing curb appeal with minimal water usage, these shrubs are reliable, beautiful, and easy to grow.

Can flowering shrubs be drought resistant?

Yes, many flowering shrubs are surprisingly drought resistant once established. Options like Double Take Orange™ Quince, Crape Myrtle, and Spirea offer long-lasting blooms and colorful displays with low water needs. These plants are perfect for adding beauty and pollinator interest to dry-climate gardens or water-wise landscapes.

Which evergreen shrubs are best for dry climates?

Evergreen shrubs like Juniper and Sunshine Ligustrum are ideal for dry, sunny locations. They require little water once established, and their year-round foliage adds color and structure to the landscape. These shrubs also perform well in poor soil, steep slopes, and areas prone to drought and heat.

How do I create a drought tolerant landscape?

To create a drought tolerant landscape, choose plants that thrive in your USDA zone and tolerate low water conditions. Use mulch to retain soil moisture, install drip irrigation to target roots directly, and group plants with similar water needs together. Select low-maintenance shrubs like Barberry, Ligustrum, and Ninebark for lasting beauty with minimal upkeep.

Do drought tolerant shrubs still need watering?

Drought tolerant shrubs still need consistent watering during their first growing season to establish strong roots. Once established, they can withstand extended dry periods with minimal supplemental water. These shrubs are ideal for reducing irrigation costs and conserving water without sacrificing the look of your landscape.

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