Posted on April 19th, 2023.

As a gardener in Colorado Springs, it can be a challenge to find plants that can thrive in our arid climate. However, by choosing native and drought-tolerant plants, you can create a beautiful and sustainable garden that is both low-maintenance and water-wise. In this post, we'll explore some of the best plant recommendations for Colorado Springs gardeners.

• Coneflower (Echinacea purpurea) - Coneflowers are a classic choice for any garden, and for good reason. These hardy perennials are native to the Great Plains and can tolerate both drought and cold temperatures. Plus, they attract pollinators like bees and butterflies with their showy, daisy-like blooms.
• Penstemon (Penstemon spp.) - Penstemons are another native plant that is well-suited to Colorado's climate. With their striking trumpet-shaped flowers in shades of pink, purple, and red, these perennials add a splash of color to any garden. They are also great for attracting hummingbirds.
• Russian Sage (Perovskia atriplicifolia) - If you're looking for a plant that is both drought-tolerant and visually stunning, look no further than Russian Sage. This tall, silvery perennial has aromatic leaves and spiky blue-purple flowers that bloom in mid-summer. It's also a favorite of bees and butterflies.
• Yarrow (Achillea millefolium) - Yarrow is a tough and adaptable perennial that is native to Colorado. With its fern-like leaves and clusters of small, flat-topped flowers in shades of pink, yellow, and white, it adds a delicate beauty to any garden. It's also a great plant for attracting beneficial insects.
• Blue Grama Grass (Bouteloua gracilis) - Grasses are an important component of any drought-tolerant garden, and Blue Grama Grass is a top choice for Colorado. This native grass has delicate, blue-green leaves and produces attractive seed heads that resemble eyelashes. It's also a host plant for the caterpillars of several butterfly species.
• Catmint (Nepeta spp.) - Catmint is a tough and adaptable perennial that is well-suited to Colorado's climate. With its aromatic leaves and clusters of lavender-blue flowers, it adds a pop of color and texture to any garden. Plus, it's a favorite of cats!
• Blanket Flower (Gaillardia spp.) - Blanket Flower is a hardy perennial that is native to the western United States. With its bright, daisy-like flowers in shades of red, orange, and yellow, it adds a cheerful touch to any garden. It's also a favorite of butterflies and other pollinators.

By incorporating these native and drought-tolerant plants into your garden, you can create a beautiful and sustainable landscape that is uniquely suited to Colorado Springs. And with their low-maintenance and water-wise qualities, you'll have more time and resources to enjoy your garden and all the beauty it has to offer. So go ahead and plant away, and enjoy the colorful rewards of a thriving, sustainable garden!