I know you’re feeling it. We’re midway through July and the summer sun is not holding back!
Some of your plants may be feeling it too. Watering multiple times a day, installing shade covers, looking for wilt… it’s a lot of work! We know a few awesome plant varieties that can really handle the heat, so if you’re looking for the resilient ones that will pull through in your full sun beds or containers, this list is for you.
1. Lavender
There are a few different varieties of lavender that tolerate heat or drought differently, but some of the best ones for our semiarid climate will be among the English cultivars.
L. angustifolia ‘Hidcote’ is an English cultivar that will endure our climate well. It has that classic lavender appearance and is well scented. This is an excellent choice capable of producing great enjoyment in your landscape or garden.
Another example, L. x intermedia ‘Grosso’, is also a strong choice for a hot, dry environment and is going to be a good candidate for essential oil production, as it is among the strongest scent producers of the lavender family.
2. Sedum/Stonecrop
This plant will easily endure up to 100 degrees F and can hold steady through our winters (down to -20 degrees F), making it a good choice for overall resilience here in the Treasure Valley. Some varieties can show signs of heat stress without adequate watering, however, so make sure to read your plant tags when selecting a sedum for your space.
Some of our favorites include Stone Crop ‘Silver Stone,’ Sedum ‘Red Carpet,’ Sedum ‘Coral Carpet,’ Sedum ‘Rock and Round Popstar’, and Dazzleberry Sedum.
3. Hens & Chicks (Sempervivum)
These resilient succulents are able to withstand a wide range of temperature fluctuation and can handle our climate quite well. Despite this, make sure they receive adequate watering and monitor for heat stress if we have prolonged extreme heat – like topping the 100s over the course of several days. You can protect them better with mulch or shade cloth as needed.
4. Euphorbia
These guys are great for general heat tolerance, but this one is worth paying attention to individual plant needs for. Some varieties will not do as well as others come winter time. Some of the ones we recommend include Red Martin Euphorbia, Euphorbia ‘Glacier Blue,’ or Euphorbia Mrs Robbs Bonnet.
5. Goldenrods (Solidago)
Golden Torch is a variety with stunning levels of heat and drought tolerance. These plants are doubly helpful because they are also good for local pollinator populations. Wichita Mountain Goldenrod is another excellent choice for overall tolerance. You will likely find success with Sweet Goldenrod as well!
If you have questions about which perennial plants will work best for the blazing sunny spots in your yard or garden, don’t hesitate to come ask your questions here at Franz Witte Garden Center. Our knowledgeable staff are eager to put the right plants in your arsenal!
