Drought Tolerant , Summer Perennials

Fran Sorin, a garden designer, writer and nationally known gardening expert is changing how people perceive gardening. Her multi-media exposure reflects her philosophy that, just like exercising regularly or following a wholesome diet, gardening is necessary for living a healthier life. http://fransorin.com/book/

Below is a list of five perennials that can be planted during mid-summer and that are promised to be drought resistant (if you water consistently for the first weeks until the plant becomes adjusted to its new home).
 
1. Achillea specimens (Yarrow) has grey or green fernlike leaves with daisy like flowerheads that continue to bloom throughout the summer and fall. Comes in a variety of colors including: white, yellow, orange, red and pink. Depending on the species (over 85), they can be grown anywhere from Zone 3- 9. Check the species to make sure it thrives in your zone. Prefers full sun in an open space but will survive in a variety of conditions.
 
2. Coreopsis specimens (Tickseed) From 80-100 species of annuals and perennials that are part of the Asteraceae family. They have daisy like yellow or pink flowerheads that grow on long stalks and are attractive to bees. Long blooming period, great for cut flowers. A rapid spreader. Check species and your zone to make sure it thrives in your climate. Some species do well from Zone 3- 9. Grow in full sun or partial shade. Deadhead for continuous bloom.
 
3. Hemerocallis (Daylilies) These are one of the great workhorses of  the garden. Daylilies are usually clump forming with thin, elongated leaves. Flowers come in a variety of forms and range in color from white to pink to
orange to yellow to a deep burgundy. Many daylilies are repeat blooming. Although they are rapid spreaders, they look most impressive when planted in drifts. They do well in sun, but will do just fine in partial shade. Hardy
in Zones 3-10.
 
4.   Lavandula (Lavender) a group of aromatic shrubs and perennials that are grown mainly for their lavender spiked flowers full of fragrance which appeal to bees because of their high level of nectar. Does well in moderately fertile soil in full sun. Known to be grown abundantly in Mediterranean climates. Great for hillside plantings, border plantings and part of a perennial border. Leaves and flowerheads can be used as flowers, sachet and potpourri. Depending on the species, can be grown from Zones 5-9.

5.  Sedum species (Stonecrop) Over 400 species of annuals and perennials that areusually succulent. The often fleshy and have 5 petaled flowers that bloom in the summer and the fall. Grow in fertile, well drained, neutral to a bit alkaline soil in full sun. Even when the flower is not in bloom in spring and early summer, the leaves and shape (fairly low growing mound) of the sedum offer an unusual texture and color to the mixed border or rock garden. Will continue to bloom throughout the fall season. Looks beautiful in the fall garden when combined with salvias, asters and fall blooming perennial grasses. Depending on species can thrive from Zones 5-9.

Article By Fran Sorin