Low-Water-Use Plants
In the greater Phoenix area, low-water-use plants are integral to sustainable gardening. Given our region's arid climate and limited water resources, low-water-use plants play a crucial role in conserving water and promoting environmental responsibility. Unlike traditional garden species, low-water-use plants have adapted to survive in dry conditions, requiring significantly less water for their growth and maintenance, once established.
By incorporating these water-efficient plants into landscapes, you can substantially reduce your water consumption and irrigation needs, leading to cost savings and improved water resource management. Plus, their resilience during droughts means that your garden can maintain its beauty and functionality even in challenging conditions.
Native low-water-use plants also supports local biodiversity and contributes to the preservation of our region's ecosystem. Low-water-use plants are well-suited to the valley's climate, soil, and wildlife, making them valuable contributors to the natural balance of our environment.
Low-water-use plants are low-maintenance and require less effort and time spent on pruning and irrigation (once established), making gardening a more manageable and enjoyable endeavor.
Click on the below low-water-use resources to learn more!
These cactus varieties and sun-tolerant succulents require little water, and all are well suited to life in the desert.
Discover low-water-use trees that grow well in the valley.
Explore a variety of low-water use shrubs that grow well in the Valley.
We've got a variety of flowers, trees and shrubs that are native to Arizona—many of which attract and support beneficial pollinators.
11 Groundcovers for Desert Gardens Groundcovers are an excellent alternative to traditional lawns or artificial turf in the Greater Metro Phoenix area. Unlike high-water-use grass or heat-retaining synthetic turf, many desert-adapted groundcovers thrive with minimal irrigation while still providing a lush, inviting look. They offer the beauty and softness people often want from a lawn—but with far less maintenance, far lower water demands, and better long-term resilience in our intense desert climate.
Learn how low-water-use plants benefit your garden and landscape...
Check out a list of low-water-use plants recommended by the AZ Dept. of Water Resources for our greater Phoenix area.
Explore watering guides for a variety of uses.
