Xeriscape Landscaping Ideas

Until recently, water conservation was strictly an issue facing the dry western states. But as our population grows, the existing water supply may not keep pace with increasing demands elsewhere. Whether this is related to drought or inadequate delivery infrastructure, it is now a more widespread challenge. With efforts to live green with greater sensitivity to water consumption, dry landscaping strategies are in demand everywhere.

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• This plant rich composition features New Zealand tea tree in red combined with African succulents and Mexican sage.
• This south facing slope features Cistus purpureus and other Mediterraneans with a generous mulch of wood chips.
• The combination of drought resistant Raphiolepis and Pittosporum hedges offers contrasting shades of green.
• This very dry garden depends on species from southern Africa and Australia for its varied forms and colors.
• Trees in the xeriscape garden are vital to protecting plants from hot afternoon sun in the summer.
• The beauty of a xeriscape is the ability to combine fabulous plants from around the world that originate in similar climates.

1. Plants

The term xeriscape describes a landscape that demands little water. It is composed of naturally drought resistant species from North America and dry climates around the world. In the dry western states, this style of landscape also supports exotics from South Africa, the Middle East and Australia. These plants are naturally adapted to the same long dry season as most western natives making them compatible in the garden. Because of water concerns, many western homeowners are turning to lawn-free landscapes.

Xeriscape Plant List

Discover the best trees and shrubs for planting in a western Xeriscape garden. The list includes the top ten evergreen trees, top ten deciduous trees, top ten native shrubs and top ten flowering shrubs.