Using Low Water Plants To Add Color To Your Garden

Published Date: Aug 10, 2015

Whether you’re looking for an environmentally friendly way to have a beautiful garden or you’d simply prefer something a little bit more low-maintenance, there are many incredible low water plants that can be used to add a splash of color to your outdoor space. From native plants to wonderful exotics, a number of different varieties of low water plants are available to suit every style and every space. When you start thinking of low water plant options, begin your planning by looking at what already works well in your outdoor space (and within your neighborhood) and then do a little bit of research on some of the best low water plant options.

When searching for low water plants, start by seeking out plants deemed “drought tolerant,” or else opt for varieties of plants that are inherently low water users, such as succulents. Common varieties of plants that fall into the “low water” category include Apricot mallow, a flowering plant that erupts in clusters of apricot-orange blossoms. As an added bonus, this is a plant that attracts butterflies, which will add even more color to your garden! For a great option that will last throughout the year you may instead opt for blue-eyed grass, which will emerge with large blue-violet blossoms in the spring and, after a dormant period during the summer, will usually have a second blooming in the cooler months before winter.

Native varieties such as California mountain lilac use very little water and have large clusters of purple blossom that make them a great addition for filling in gardens with plenty of color. Likewise, purple sage is a low water user that has lovely purple flowers that are sure to add visual interest to any outdoor space. Another option for a pop of purple is lupine, which comes in many varieties and is perfect for areas that see little water during the warmer months of the year.

Finally, consider succulents for your garden such as “Voodoo,” a low-growing plant with rich burgundy leaves that can add dramatic appeal to a space. Other popular and colorful succulent options include tree aeonium, Echeveria, and spider aloe, which features orange growths.

There are numerous ways to include low water plants into a garden space. For flowers such as lupine, or blue-eyed grass, consider planting in large areas where these plants can fill in and cover a large amount of space. These plants are perfect for low beds along retaining walls or beside patios.

You may also consider incorporating low water plants and succulents into rock gardens, where they can add a splash of color that helps to maintain visual interest. This kind of low maintenance xeriscaping is perfect for the gardener who wants a beautiful yard without the effort and environmental costs of maintaining a garden. Whatever you choose, rest assured that your options are not limited by any means just because you decide to incorporate low water plants into your outdoor space!