The Best Drought-Tolerant Plants for Fayetteville Summers

Fayetteville summers can be hot, humid, and sometimes dry. If your plants start to droop and fade by mid-June, it might be time to switch up your garden game with drought-tolerant varieties. Choosing the right plants for our local climate helps save water, reduces maintenance, and keeps your garden thriving through the dog days of summer.

Here are some of our top drought-tolerant picks that love life in the Sandhills region:

1. Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia)
With its sunny yellow petals and dark centers, Black-eyed Susan is a tried-and-true favorite in Southern gardens. These perennials bloom from June into fall and attract pollinators while standing up to full sun and dry spells.

2. Russian Sage (Perovskia atriplicifolia)
This airy plant adds height, movement, and color with lavender-blue blooms. Russian sage thrives in full sun, poor soil, and drought, making it perfect for Fayetteville gardens.

3. Lantana
Butterflies love it, deer don’t, and it blooms non-stop in the summer heat. Lantana comes in a variety of vibrant colors and is incredibly drought-resistant once established.

4. Yarrow (Achillea millefolium)
This hardy perennial produces clusters of small blooms that add texture and attract beneficial insects. It’s a great low-maintenance choice for sunny spots.

5. Sedum (Stonecrop)
Succulent sedums, especially groundcover varieties like ‘Dragon’s Blood,’ are perfect for hot, dry areas. They’re tough, colorful, and virtually care-free.

Pro Tip: Even drought-tolerant plants need regular watering as they get established. Once their roots are settled, they’ll reward you with resilience and beauty all summer long.

Stop by Green Side Up to browse our full selection of heat-loving, low-maintenance plants that are well-suited to life in Fayetteville. Our team is here to help you build a garden that doesn’t just survive the summer—it thrives!