30+ Xeric Plants for Colorado, Wyoming, Utah & the West
Extremely drought-tolerant perennials, shrubs, trees, and grasses
Want to lower your water bill, while keeping your curb appeal up?
Explore this list of very low-water plants from Plant Select. These plants can handle dry conditions—and still look good!
We consider this list of very low-water plants to be “xeric plants.” Typically, xeric plants should receive water when they’re planted and getting established. After that, they may only need supplemental irrigation during prolonged periods of drought, if at all.
We assume about 12 to 16 inches of natural precipitation from Mother Nature per year. If you live someplace drier, you may need to water slightly more frequently. If you live someplace with more precipitation, you may not need to water at all once these plants are established.
This list is intended as a helpful guide only. Individual growing conditions can vary.
Xeric perennials (extremely drought tolerant)
Filigree daisy
Anthemis marschalliana
View the plant description
Note: This plant can be harder to find. Look for it at botanic garden sales.
Xeric sub-shrubs (extremely drought tolerant)
Baby Blue rabbitbrush (aka, dwarf rabbitbrush)
Ericameria nauseosa var. nauseosa
View the plant description
Xeric shrubs and trees (extremely drought tolerant)
Bluestem joint fir
Ephedra equisetina
View the plant description
Note: Good for dry shade. Do not plant in sandy soil.
Xeric ornamental grasses (extremely drought tolerant)
Standing Ovation little bluestem
Schizachyrium scoparium ‘Standing Ovation’
View the plant description
Thin Man golden prairie grass (formerly Indian grass)
Sorghastrum nutans ‘Thin Man’
View the plant description
Where to find Plant Select plants
Plant Select is a nonprofit collaboration between Denver Botanic Gardens, Colorado State University, and professional horticulturists across the West.
You can find Plant Select plants at independent garden centers, online retailers and wholesalers. Ask for Plant Select on your next visit.
If your retailer doesn’t have the plant you want, let them know you’re interested in it. Demand can help drive what retailers carry. In some cases, they may be able to order the plant for you.
