About the author
Elena Vasquez
Indoor Gardening & Lifestyle Editor
Elena writes about apartment-friendly plants, design-forward houseplant trends, and creative projects like kokedama and terrariums. She balances aesthetics with realistic care advice for busy households.
"Drought-tolerant plants need less water once established and handle heat and dry spells better. Ideal for balconies, hot patios, and anyone who forgets to water. Here are 18 that look good and stay tough.
Water-wise gardening is a focus in many regions. The RHS and USDA Plants highlight drought-resistant species for different zones. Use ePlant to name plants you see and get care notes in our encyclopedia. For indoor tough plants, see beginner-friendly houseplants.
18 Drought-Tolerant Plants for Hot Weather
- Lavender (Lavandula) – Sun-loving; fragrant; low water once established.
- Sedum (stonecrop) – Succulent leaves; great for hot, dry spots.
- Agave – Bold form; full sun; very low water.
- Yucca – Architectural; tolerates heat and drought.
- Rosemary – Herb; sun; well-drained soil; light watering.
- Sage (Salvia) – Ornamental and culinary; heat and drought tolerant.
- Echeveria – Succulent; ideal for containers and hot balconies.
- Portulaca (moss rose) – Colorful flowers; thrives in heat and dry soil.
- Gaillardia (blanket flower) – Bright blooms; low water.
- Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia) – Tough perennial; sun; moderate drought.
- Coneflower (Echinacea) – Pollinator favorite; tolerates dry spells.
- Verbena – Long bloom; heat and drought tolerant.
- Lantana – Full sun; colorful; low water.
- Oleander – Very drought tolerant; toxic; use with caution around kids and pets.
- Bougainvillea – Showy; sun; let soil dry between waterings.
- Jade plant (Crassula) – Succulent; containers; minimal water.
- Aloe – Succulent; sun; very low water.
- Penstemon – Tubular flowers; many species; drought tolerant.
Match plants to your zone and site. For more ideas, see our 2026 plant trends and invasive plants to avoid so you choose non-invasive, climate-appropriate species.
Pro Tip
Drought tolerant does not mean no water. Water deeply after planting and during long dry spells so roots establish. Then you can ease off.
Identify Drought-Tolerant Plants on the Go
Snap a photo with ePlant to name the plant and get care and water needs.
Identify with ePlantFrequently Asked Questions
What does drought tolerant mean?
Drought-tolerant plants can survive with less water once established. They often have adaptations like thick leaves, deep roots, or reduced leaf area. They still need water during establishment and in extreme drought.
Can I grow drought-tolerant plants in containers?
Yes. Use well-draining soil and pots with drainage. Succulents, lavender, sedum, and many herbs do well in pots on hot balconies. Water when the soil is dry; avoid soggy soil.