Drought-tolerant plants may bring to mind barren rockscapes and boring curb appeal, but that doesn’t have to be the case. “There are countless options for dry-climate curb appeal,” says Noelle Johnson, a horticulturist, landscape consultant, and the pro behind the plant advice site AZ Plant Lady. “From the vibrant colors of drought-tolerant ground covers, shrubs, and vines to the unique shapes of cacti and other succulents, there are many options to add beauty to outdoor spaces.” The key to acing a landscape design that’s both climate-friendly and attractive lies in finding the right balance. “I like to think about adding beauty and benefit,” says Arianna Iappini, the gardening expert and coach behind The Birch Arbor Gardens. “A lovely flowering aromatic will add visual interest and feed the native pollinators. Many drought-tolerant plants offer both eye-catching appeal and help to elevate biodiversity.” Check out some pro-approved, drought-tolerant plants below. They will thrive with very little water and still give you one of the prettiest yards on the block. Hardiness Zone: Perennial in Zones 9 through 11, but can be grown as a summer annual in Zones 1 through 8 Hardiness Zone: Zones 3 through 8 Hardiness Zone: Zones 5 through 9 Hardiness Zone: Zones 5 through 11 Hardiness Zone: Zones 5 through 8 Hardiness Zone: Zones 8 through 11 Hardiness Zone: Zones 3 through 9 Hardiness Zone: Zones 8 through 9 Hardiness Zone: Zones 4 through 8 Hardiness Zone: Zones 4 through 9 Hardiness Zone: Zones 4 through 9 Hardiness Zone: Zones 7 through 10, but can be grown as an annual or brought indoors for the winter in colder zones Hardiness Zone: Zones 4 through 9
