Drought Tolerant Plants: Buying Guide

Drought-tolerant indoor plants are a fantastic choice for those who want to enjoy the beauty of greenery without the hassle of constant watering. These resilient plants have evolved to thrive in dry conditions, making them perfect for anyone with a busy lifestyle or those who might forget to water their plants regularly. 

Not only are they low-maintenance, but many drought-resistant houseplants also offer other significant benefits, such as purifying the air and releasing oxygen at night. These undemanding plants are tough enough to withstand heat and dry conditions, ensuring they stay lush and vibrant even in less-than-ideal environments. 

Whether you want to add some greenery to your home or office, we offer plenty of drought-tolerant plants to choose from. Consider the striking Bromeliad Neoregelia, which showcases blue or white flowers in its center, the sturdy Cast Iron Plant, the exotic ZZ Plant, and the charming Watermelon Peperomia. Each of these plants is as beautiful as it is easy to care for, making them perfect companions for any space. 

Choose From a Variety of Drought Resistant Plants

Drought-resistant plants come in a range of sizes and styles, making them ideal for various spaces, whether you need something compact for a small desk or a larger statement piece for a living room. From succulents to tropical evergreen perennials or hanging plants, there’s a drought-tolerant plant to suit every environment or make the ultimate easy-care plant gift. Here’s a look at 4 standout options from our collection:

Sansevieria Zeylanica Snake Plant

• Characteristics: Known for its upright, sword-like leaves with yellow edges, the Zeylanica Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata Zeylanica) is a resilient choice that can tolerate low light and irregular watering.
• Level of care: Extremely easy; this plant thrives on neglect and is almost impossible to kill.
• Pet-friendliness: Mildly toxic to pets if ingested.

White Striped Dracaena (Dragon Tree) Plant

• Characteristics: With its white striped, spiky, arching leaves and tall, slender form, the White Striped Dracaena (Dracaena warneckii) adds a touch of drama to any room.
• Level of care: Low-maintenance; prefers moderate light and needs watering only when the top inch of soil is dry.
• Pet-friendliness: Toxic to pets if consumed.

Ruby Rubber Tree Plant

• Characteristics: The Ruby Rubber Tree (Ficus elastica ‘Ruby’) features broad, glossy leaves and can grow to impressive heights, making it perfect for larger spaces.
• Level of care: Easy; enjoys bright, indirect light and occasional watering.
• Pet-friendliness: Toxic to pets if ingested.

Hoya Heart Plant

• Characteristics: The Hoya Heart Plant (Hoya kerrii), often called the "Sweetheart Plant," is a vining Hoya variety that can be grown as a single leaf.
• Level of care: Low-maintenance; thrives in bright, indirect light and only needs water when the soil is completely dry.
• Pet-friendliness: Pet-friendly and non-toxic.

Drought Resistant Plants: Care & Maintenance Guide

Caring for drought-resistant plants is straightforward, making them ideal for both beginners and busy plant enthusiasts. Here's a simple guide to keeping these hardy plants healthy and vibrant.

Soil & Watering

Drought-tolerant plants thrive in well-draining soil. For most, a cactus or succulent mix works well, ensuring that excess water doesn’t sit around the roots, which can cause rot. When watering, it's best to allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Water thoroughly, ensuring moisture reaches the roots, but always avoid letting the plant sit in standing water. Overwatering is one of the most common issues with drought-tolerant plants.

Light & Temperature

These plants generally prefer bright, indirect light, although many can tolerate lower light conditions. Succulents and cacti, for example, thrive in bright sunlight, while varieties like Sansevierias can handle low-light environments. Temperature-wise, most drought-resistant plants prefer warm conditions, typically between 60-75°F (15-24°C). Avoid placing them in drafts or areas with sudden temperature changes.

Feeding & Humidity

Drought-tolerant plants don't require frequent feeding. A balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength once or twice during the growing season (spring and summer) is sufficient. In terms of humidity, these plants generally do well in average indoor humidity levels. Succulents, for instance, prefer drier air, while plants like Rubber Trees and Dracaenas can tolerate slightly higher humidity.

Pruning, Pests & Cleaning

Pruning is essential to maintaining the plant’s shape and removing any yellowing or dead leaves, which can harbor pests. Regularly inspect your plants for common pests like spider mites, mealybugs, and scale. If found, treat the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Cleaning the leaves occasionally with a damp cloth helps remove dust, allowing the plant to breathe and photosynthesize more efficiently.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Overwatering, overexposure to direct sunlight, and neglecting to prune dead leaves are common issues. If leaves start yellowing, it may be due to overwatering or lack of light. Move the plant to a brighter location and adjust your watering schedule. If pests are a problem, ensure your plants are cleaned regularly and treated promptly at the first sign of infestation.

Green Up Your Space With Easy Care Drought Tolerant Plants 

Transform your home, office, or outdoor space with Lively Root’s selection of drought-tolerant plants. These low-maintenance, sustainable options are perfect for conserving water resources while adding aesthetic appeal to any environment. Whether you’re looking for indoor plants to brighten up your living room, bedroom, or desk or outdoor options for gravel gardens, rockeries, and patios, these resilient plants thrive with minimal care. Drought-tolerant plants are ideal for creating stylish, beautiful, sustainable, low-water landscapes.