When we moved to Arizona three years ago, I nearly gave up gardening altogether.
The scorching heat and water restrictions made it seem impossible to grow anything beautiful.
But after lots of research and plenty of failed attempts, I found these incredible drought-resistant groundcovers that changed everything!
My Top 10 Groundcovers for Dry Gardens
1. Ice Plant (Delosperma sp.)
Would you believe a plant with “ice” in its name loves the heat?
These succulents have completely transformed my rocky slope into a colorful paradise.
In late spring, their needle-like foliage bursts into life with stunning purple-pink flowers.
And here’s my favorite part – they thrive in poor soil, no fertilizer needed!
2. Moss Phlox (Phlox subulata)
Remember that patchy lawn that used to drive me crazy?
Moss Phlox turned it into a beautiful, low-maintenance carpet that only grows 6 inches tall.
The springtime display of star-shaped flowers is absolutely breathtaking, and best of all – deer won’t touch it!
Trust me – plant them 12 inches apart and watch the magic happen over the next couple of years.
3. Periwinkle (Vinca minor)
That shady spot under my oak tree used to be a gardener’s nightmare.
Then I discovered periwinkle, with its glossy leaves and charming blue or white flowers.
Quick tip from my experience: Check your local regulations first – this beauty can spread quite enthusiastically!
4. Wine Cup (Callirhoe)
My Midwest garden friends introduced me to this prairie native, and I’m forever grateful.
The magenta, poppy-like flowers dancing above finely cut foliage bring such joy from late spring through early fall.
I’ve planted them along my garden paths where they can sprawl naturally, and they handle our dry spells like champions.
5. Blue Fescue (Festuca)
Looking for year-round interest? Blue fescue is your answer.
I’ve used these stunning blue-hued grasses to line my pathways, and they never fail to draw compliments from visitors.
The tidy mounds maintain their structure even during the hottest summers, and those buff-colored flowers in late summer are an unexpected bonus.
6. Dianthus ‘Fire Witch’
The moment I planted Fire Witch in my rock garden, I knew I’d found something special.
Those vibrant pink flowers with their delicate fringed edges stop everyone in their tracks.
The clove-like fragrance is absolutely intoxicating, especially on warm summer evenings when I’m watering my garden (which isn’t often, thanks to how drought-tolerant these beauties are!).
7. Ostrich Ferns
Don’t let anyone tell you ferns can’t handle dry conditions!
My ostrich ferns have proven them wrong, creating a gorgeous backdrop in my woodland garden area.
While they might get a bit smaller during drought periods, they bounce right back when rain returns.
8. Woolly Thyme (Thymus pseudolanuginosus)
I fell in love with woolly thyme when I first touched its soft, fuzzy leaves.
At just 2-4 inches tall, it’s perfect between my stepping stones where it releases its gentle fragrance with each step.
The pale pink flowers aren’t just pretty – they’re pollinator magnets!
9. Sunset Rock Rose (Cistus x pulverulentus)
This Mediterranean beauty has transformed my fire-prone hillside into a stunning display.
The fuchsia flowers might look delicate, but don’t be fooled – this plant is tough as nails.
I especially appreciate how it stays neat with just a light pruning, spreading 6-8 feet wide without becoming unruly.
10. Epimedium
My shaded, dry areas used to be a gardening nightmare until I discovered Epimedium.
Those heart-shaped leaves in various colors create the most beautiful ground cover under my large trees.
The delicate flowers in lavender, yellow, or white dancing above the foliage in spring are just magical.