18 Best Drought-Tolerant Plants for Hot Weather and Busy Plant Owners

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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.

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