Beginner Friendly Succulents & Drought-Resistant Plants

It’s no secret that California is in a pretty severe drought. As residents of California, it is our duty to do what we can to save water and enforce water-wise procedures into our everyday lives.

You may think that this may mean that you have to sacrifice the beauty of your landscaping, but the good news is that you don’t.

Due to its fleshy leaves, Succulents are able to store water in their leaves, stems, or at their roots efficiently. These plants have adapted to survive arid conditions and require little to no watering. There are so many gorgeous succulents and drought-resistant plants that you can plant into your yard without worrying too much about maintaining them.

Here are a few of our favorite succulents and drought-tolerant plants:

Ground Cover

1. Ceanothus Maritimus

   • Description: Also known as Maritime Ceonothus, this ground cover plant is native to coastal regions. It boasts vibrant blue flowers and glossy, dark green leaves.
   • Drought Tolerance: Ceanothus Maritimus is well-adapted to dry conditions, making it an excellent choice for water-conscious gardening.

2. Sedum Spacthulifolim

   • Features: This succulent ground cover is characterized by its fleshy, spoon-shaped leaves that form dense mats. It’s not only visually appealing but also resilient in various environmental conditions.

3. Nassella Tenuissima

   • Attributes: Also known as Mexican Feather Grass, this ornamental grass adds a graceful touch to landscapes with its feathery, fine-textured blades. It’s drought-tolerant and adds movement to the garden with its swaying plumes.

4. Mimulus Tilingii

   • Unique Qualities: Known as the Mina Lobata or Spanish Flag, this plant produces vibrant tubular flowers that transition in color, creating a visually striking display. It’s not just drought-tolerant but also attracts pollinators.

Succulents

1. Sempervivum

   • Characteristics: Commonly referred to as hens and chicks, Sempervivum forms rosette-shaped clusters. These hardy succulents are known for their ability to thrive in arid conditions, making them perfect for your drought-tolerant garden.

2. Crassula Ovata

   • Popularly Known As: Jade Plant or Money Plant, Crassula Ovata is recognized for its thick, glossy leaves. It’s not only a symbol of good luck but also a resilient succulent that stores water efficiently.

3. Kalanchoe Tomenosa

   • Noteworthy Traits: Often called the Panda Plant, this succulent features fuzzy, silvery leaves with brown spots, resembling a panda’s ears. It’s well-suited for drought-prone areas and adds a touch of whimsy to the garden.

Shade Succulents

1. Agave Attenuata

   • Distinctive Features: Sometimes referred to as the Foxtail Agave, it is known for its gracefully arching leaves. While most succulents prefer sunlight, Agave Attenuata can thrive in partial shade, making it versatile for different garden settings.

2. Sansevieria Trifasciata

   • Commonly Known As: Snake Plant or Mother-in-law’s Tongue, this succulent is known for its upright, sword-like leaves. It’s not only adaptable to low light conditions but also contributes to indoor air purification.

3. Aloe Maculata

   • Eye-Catching Elements: Also called the Soap Aloe, it features spotted leaves and produces vibrant coral-colored flowers. Aloe Maculata thrives in partial shade and is well-suited for gardens with diverse light conditions.

Flowers

1. Marigold

   • Charm and Benefits: Marigolds are not only known for their vibrant hues but also for their ability to repel pests. These hardy annuals bring a burst of color to your garden while serving a practical purpose.

2. Lavender

   • Aromatic Delight: Besides its enchanting fragrance, lavender is celebrated for its calming properties. This perennial herb is drought-tolerant and adds a touch of elegance to any garden.

3. Poppies

   • Colorful Elegance: Poppies, with their delicate petals and vibrant colors, are not only visually stunning but also resilient. They thrive in well-drained soil and are a symbol of remembrance and beauty.

4. Yucca

   • Architectural Appeal: Yucca plants, known for their striking rosette of sword-like leaves, add a touch of drama to the garden. These drought-tolerant plants are excellent for landscapes seeking a bold and architectural element.

 

For more information on the specific maintenance required for each individual plant, give us a call!To learn more about what you can do to help save California’s water, check out this article: 4 Websites to Help You Stay Informed About the California Drought.

Cutting Edge Landscape knows how to take care of your landscaping during the drought. If you have any questions about how to conserve water and still have amazing landscaping, give us a call at (310) 406-2251. We can’t wait to hear from you soon.