Collection: Drought Tolerant Groundcovers

Drought tolerant ground cover plants can spread color and texture through sunny, dry spaces while using less summer water once established. Use them to soften pathway edges, dress up rock gardens, cover open soil, or knit larger plants into a living carpet. Foliage, flower color, growth rate, cold tolerance, and evergreen performance vary by selection—this is a cast of characters, not one plant wearing several hats.

Match each groundcover to your climate, light, soil, drainage, expected foot traffic, and available space. Many water-wise choices prefer full sun and sharply drained soil; sandy or gravelly conditions suit some, but not all. New plantings still need regular water while roots establish, and even established plants may need supplemental irrigation during prolonged heat or drought. Check each plant page for mature spread and care details before inviting an enthusiastic groundcover to roam.

Explore more: Browse drought-tolerant plants or explore plants by type.