Verbena, lavender and iris have been named as some of the best plants to survive and thrive in scorching summer temperatures.
Plant specialists from GardeningExpress.co.uk have compiled a guide on the best drought resistant plants which thrive in searing heat.
Last summer, hose-pipe and sprinkler bans were placed across the nation in an effort to conserve water – with those not complying being hit by hefty fines.
But such bans can spell havoc for many garden plants, which rely on an abundance of water to survive.
Alternatively, drought resistant plants are naturally adapted to flourish in dry conditions. As long as a good root system is established, they require little water even when left directly under sunlight.
Chris Bonnett from GardeningExpress.co.uk explained: “It’s best for gardeners to be prepared for another load of heatwaves this summer. Whilst we may be able to escape to the shade indoors, our plants cannot.
“Choosing flowers and shrubs carefully is imperative if you want to achieve a flourishing flower bed throughout summer.
“By including some of the best drought resistant plants, you can ensure a blossoming garden all season long.”
Here are GardeningExpress.co.uk’s top drought resistant plants:
Verbena
The tiny clusters of bright purple flowers blossom throughout summer and well into autumn. Known for attracting butterflies and bees due to its rich nectar, they can reach heights of up to 60cm.
Dierama
With elegant, bowing flower stems and bell-shaped blooms, it is often referred to as ‘Angels fishing rod’ and is best planted in spring.
Iris
When established Iris is incredibly drought-intolerant however newly planted must be
watered on a regular basis in order to develop roots.
Cape Daisy
This South African daisy can bloom even with just half an inch of water once a week. It’s also great for gardeners who want to produce large quantities of blooms.
Blue Spire
Commonly called Russian sage, this plant is a real sun-worshipper. Often place in large amounts, the tiny, violet flowers which appear on silver-grey spikes provide maximum impact for the looker-on.
Sea holly
Large vivid blue flowers complemented with deep green leaves, they are often planted with the Blue Spire for striking impact. Sea holly thrives in containers with good drainage during summer and cannot tolerate cold and wet weather.
Jerusalem Sage
A small evergreen shrub, the plant can flower from late spring into late autumn. Exceptionally fast growing, it can reach up to 4 feet tall with an equal spread.
Sedums
One of the easiest plants to grow, there are few that are more forgiving of bad soil and harsh sun than the Sedum plant. A rarity to find a plant that thrives even when neglected, sedums are perfect for novice gardeners.
Lavender
An iconic native to the Mediterranean and the middle east the plant copes well in sunny conditions, with its strong aromatic flowers and incredibly easy to plant, lavender should be a staple in any drought-intolerant garden.
