Hardy Groundcovers for Arid Environments

It can seem hopeless to try to cultivate grass in deserts or other arid areas. Because of this, many individuals who live in these types of climates choose to cover their ground with pebbles, gravel, or artificial materials rather than grass. However, a number of hardy, low-growing groundcover plants thrive in arid environments. Compared to artificial grass, they might not be able to withstand foot activity. However, they draw beneficial insects to your land and can improve its appearance.

Baileya multiradiata, often known as desert marigold, is one such plant. The groundcover features silvery leaves and lovely yellow blooms. In the spring, they bloom. Very little water is needed by the plant. It only lasts for one season, though. If one wants desert marigold, one must plant it year. The bushy Gold Mound Lantana, also called Lantana camara, grows to a height of typically slightly over half a meter. Its water requirements range from low to moderate, and its yellow blooms bloom intermittently from spring through autumn. Lantana montevidensis, its related, grows in a horizontal manner. Its purple flowers add year-round color to the garden. The water needs of the groundcover are moderate. Although it can withstand partial sunshine, it prefers full sunlight.

Dalea greggii, often known as trailing indigo, is another groundcover that thrives in arid environments. The long-lived shrub produces pink or purple pea-shaped flowers and blue-gray foliage. It blossoms in full or partial sunshine from spring through summer. The plant requires relatively little water, although during its blooming season, it could want a little bit more. It can expand up to three meters wide.Convolvulus cneorum, also known as silverbush, is a quickly spreading evergreen that blooms for roughly two weeks in the springtime in the desert. The 60-centimeter-tall plant features silvery leaves and white flowers with a golden core. Oenothera caespitosa, the white evening primrose, often has blooms from spring to summer. However, they are only open from early morning to late afternoon. The white flowers turn pale pink, deepen, and finally turn rich pinkish-purple. The plant thrives in full sun to partial shade and has moderate water requirements.