We all know that drought is bad news, but a true-blue Aussie gardener simply takes it in their stride and gets back to work. Here are a few tough-as-nails plants to turn your yard into a flourishing oasis, whatever the conditions. 

1. Australian natives

Droughts aren’t exactly rare around here, so it’s only natural that our vegetation has evolved accordingly. From the lush green of the ‘limelight’ acacia, to the almost-otherworldly flowers of the kangaroo paw, Australia offers a wealth of sturdy plant life brimming with vivid colour. We’d particularly suggest investing in some prickly bottlebrush. Now that’s what we call red.

2. Succulents

The thick, fleshy build of succulents makes them well suited for surviving droughts, as they’re capable of storing far more moisture than other types of plant. Coming in all kinds of colours and shapes, they look absolutely awesome, and a few aloe plants or cacti dotted about can add a unique sense of character to any garden. Plus, they require almost no looking-after – so even if you’re not blessed with the greenest thumb, you should have no trouble keeping these guys alive.

3. Ivy-leaved geraniums

Even in a drought, there’s no need to neglect our hanging baskets. Ivy-leaved geraniums (or pelargonium peltatum, if you’re feeling fancy) can survive with relatively little water, and are available in various gorgeous hues of red, mauve, white and pink.

4. Heavenly or sacred Japanese bamboo

This little plant may be confusingly named (it’s not actually bamboo), but there’s no need to wonder why it’s such a popular feature in Aussie gardens. Found all over South East Asia, it’s widely sought for its durability, low maintenance and shimmering, rust-dusted foliage. Plant a whole bed of them for maximum effect, and watch your outdoor space bloom into life.

5. Bromeliads

Bromeliads don’t require a lot of watering, and the fact that there’s nearly a thousand different species out there means your drought-proof garden never needs to look the same from one season to the next. Whether it’s tubular tillandsias, spiky nidulariums or a sharp, pink aechmea that takes your fancy, you’re very well covered with these plants.

6. Lavender

A garden without fragrance is like pie without sauce: sure it’s possible, but why would you bother? Heavily scented flowers tend to be a bit thirsty and favour a regular shower, but one notable exception is the trusty old lavender. This famously aromatic species is a full-sun stalwart, and the scent will keep you smiling all summer long.

Need a hand setting up your outdoor garden? Talk to a gardener near you today.