22 Best Drought-Tolerant Plants for Texas

Texas summers test every plant in your yard. Record heat and long dry spells can turn a green landscape brown in a matter of weeks. Choosing drought-tolerant plants is the smartest move you can make.

The right drought-tolerant plants save water, cut maintenance, and still deliver color and shade year-round. Native and adapted species attract pollinators, resist pests, and hold up through the worst Texas summers without constant irrigation.

Building a low-water landscape takes some planning, but the payoff is a yard that looks great without running up your water bill. LawnStarter landscaping pros can help you design and install a drought-tolerant yard tailored to your region.

Key Takeaways

• Texas native plants like Texas sage, lantana, and blackfoot daisy thrive in drought with minimal watering once established. • Group drought-tolerant plants by type (trees for shade, shrubs for privacy, ground covers and perennials for color) to build a complete low-water landscape. • Plant in fall or early spring, water deeply but infrequently, and avoid overwatering to give drought-tolerant plants the best start.

Drought-Tolerant Trees for Texas

The best drought-tolerant trees for Texas include cedar elm, bald cypress, Texas ash, Texas redbud, and Texas mountain laurel. These trees provide shade and curb appeal without heavy watering once established.

1. Cedar Elm (Ulmus crassifolia)

Also known as the Texas elm, this native deciduous tree is famous for its drought tolerance. It adapts to various soil types and light conditions and provides ample shade to keep homes cool during hot Texas summers.

• Plant type: Tree

• USDA Hardiness Zone: 6 to 9

• Sun: Partial shade

• Soil: Adapted to most soil types, from moist to dry, and prefers alkaline soils

• Foliage: Deciduous

• Season of interest: Summer and fall — fine-textured green leaves turn yellow in the fall.

• Water needs: Moderate

• Mature size: Trunk has a diameter of 2 to 3 feet, and the tree can grow up to 75 feet tall. Its stiff branches form a narrow, oblong crown.

• Potential problems: Common pests include aphids, powdery mildew, and mistletoe. Prune low-hanging branches to avoid accidents.

• Note: This native elm is commonly found in East Texas and gets its name from its rough, cedar scale-like leaves.

2. Bald Cypress (Taxodium distichum)

The bald cypress is a striking deciduous tree that enhances any landscape. Its bright green leaves turn rust-colored in the fall, and it can grow 50 to 70 feet tall.

The feathery, delicate foliage adds a touch of sophistication. Its distinct shape and form create an intriguing silhouette in winter.

• Plant type: Tree

• USDA Hardiness Zone: 4 to 10

• Sun: Full sun to part shade

• Soil: Prefers moist, slightly acidic to neutral soil, and can handle some flooding.

• Foliage: Deciduous

• Season of interest: Needle-like leaves that are bright green during the growing season and turn orange or rusty brown in the fall.

• Water needs: Moderate

• Mature size: 50 to 70 feet tall and 20 to 30 feet wide

• Potential problems: No major health issues. The tree may shed leaves and cones, which will require regular cleanup.

• Note: When planted near water, it develops “knees” with woody projections emerging from the water.

3. Texas Ash (Fraxinus texensis)

The Texas ash is a common shade tree throughout south and central Texas. Known for its rounded crown, it is easy to maintain once established because it handles drought well and needs little fertilizer.

In fall, it puts on a stunning display of colors ranging from yellow, orange, and red to purple and maroon.

• Plant type: Tree

• USDA Hardiness Zone: 5 to 9

• Sun: Full sun

• Soil: Prefers well-draining, loamy soil but can also grow in sand or clay. Tolerates acidic, neutral, or alkaline soil.

• Foliage: Deciduous

• Season of interest: Spring, summer, and fall — yellow, orange, and purple leaves.

• Water needs: Moderate

• Mature size: 30 to 40 feet tall

• Potential problems: Emerald ash borers can affect younger trees, and ash tree diseases are a common risk.

• Note: Texas ash is one of the few ash trees that will grow here.

4. Texas Redbud (Cercis canadensis var. texensis)

This small to medium-sized native tree blooms with stunning pink and purple flowers in early spring. Known for its heart-shaped leaves, the Texas redbud can be found across central and north-central Texas.

It is a great option for ornamental purposes, light shade, and pollinator gardens.

• Plant type: Tree

• USDA Hardiness Zone: 6 to 9

• Sun: Full sun to partial shade

• Soil: Alkaline and well-draining soil, but can tolerate a range of soil types

• Foliage: Deciduous

• Bloom time: Early spring

• Water needs: Moderate

• Mature size: 15 to 20 feet tall and wide

• Potential problems: Stem cankers are a common problem.

• Note: The nectar attracts butterflies, bees, and other pollinators. Birds eat the seeds.

5. Texas Mountain Laurel (Dermatophyllum secundiflorum)

The Texas mountain laurel is a slow-growing evergreen that produces purple-blue flowers in late winter and early spring. It attracts pollinators, requires little maintenance, and is drought-tolerant.

This is a great option for busy homeowners who want a beautiful, low-maintenance tree.

• Plant type: Tree

• USDA Hardiness Zone: 7 to 9

• Sun: Full sun to partial shade

• Soil: Well-drained soil

• Foliage: Evergreen

• Bloom time: Late winter and early spring

• Water needs: Low

• Mature size: 10 to 20 feet tall on average, but can reach 30 feet tall and wide

• Potential problems: All parts of the Texas mountain laurel are toxic if ingested, so use cautiously around small children and pets.

• Note: Plant a few together for a privacy screen, or use one as a focal point in your front yard landscaping.

6. Eve’s Necklace (Styphnolobium affine)

This small to medium-sized tree is a Texas native plant. In spring, Eve’s necklace produces fragrant white flowers, followed by seed pods that resemble long bead necklaces.

Eve’s necklace is valuable to pollinators (especially bees) and provides cover and nesting habitat for birds.

• Plant type: Tree

• USDA Hardiness Zone: 6 to 9

• Sun: Full sun to partial shade

• Soil: Well-drained, rocky, or sandy soils

• Foliage: Green, pinnate leaves

• Bloom time: Spring

• Water needs: Low

• Mature size: Up to 30 feet tall and 20 feet wide

• Potential problems: Seeds are poisonous.

7. Mexican Palmetto (Sabal mexicana)

This palm is an excellent choice for homeowners who want a palm tree that can survive drought and thrive in Texas. Originating from the Rio Grande Valley, the Mexican palmetto has a tropical look.

It tolerates both drought and cold, withstanding temperatures as low as 15 degrees.

• Plant type: Palm tree

• USDA Hardiness Zone: 8 to 11

• Sun: Full sun to partial shade

• Soil: Tolerates different soil types, including salty and poorly drained soils

• Foliage: Evergreen

• Bloom time: Spring

• Water needs: Low to moderate

• Mature size: Up to 50 feet tall

• Potential problems: Extreme cold and lethal yellowing disease are its biggest threats.

• Note: It can be planted in groups or as an accent tree.

Drought-Tolerant Shrubs for Texas

Drought-tolerant shrubs for Texas add privacy, structure, and year-round greenery to your yard without heavy watering. These hardy options thrive in tough conditions and create a beautiful landscape even in the driest summers.

8. Texas Sage (Leucophyllum frutescens)

This low-maintenance shrub produces beautiful purple, pink, or white flowers that give off a scent similar to sage. It can be easily shaped with hedge trimmers, making it a popular choice for water-efficient landscaping in Texas.

• Plant type: Shrub

• USDA Hardiness Zone: 8 to 11

• Sun: Full sun

• Soil: Well-draining soil

• Foliage: Evergreen

• Bloom time: Summer

• Water needs: Low

• Mature size: 3 to 8 feet tall and wide, depending on the variety

• Potential problems: It may suffer from cotton root rot if overwatered.

• Note: Texas sage is drought-tolerant and can survive on rainfall alone. It is also deer-resistant.

9. Texas Ebony (Ebenopsis ebano)

The Texas ebony is a slow-growing evergreen shrub that can reach up to 30 feet tall and 20 feet wide. Its glossy dark green foliage produces small white flowers and black seed pods.

This plant is drought-tolerant, grows in various soil types, and is resistant to most pests and diseases.

• Plant type: Large shrub or tree

• USDA Hardiness Zone: 9 to 11

• Sun: Full sun

• Soil: Well-draining soil, but can tolerate a range of soil types

• Foliage: Evergreen

• Bloom time: Summer

• Water needs: Low

• Mature size: Up to 30 feet tall and 20 feet wide

• Potential problems: No serious pests or diseases

• Note: The Texas ebony is slow-growing and requires minimal care.

10. Hopbush (Dodonaea viscosa)

Native to Arizona and Florida, hopbush is widely used as an adapted ornamental hedge in South and Central Texas. It has lush, evergreen foliage that thrives in full sun and grows quickly, making it a perfect water-conserving hedge for a private landscape.

In spring, small green and yellow flowers bloom, followed by light brown, papery seed pods.

• Plant type: Shrub

• USDA Hardiness Zone: 7 to 11

• Sun: Full sun to partial shade

• Soil: Well-draining sandy, clay, rock, or loam soils

• Foliage: Evergreen

• Bloom time: Spring through fall

• Water needs: Low

• Mature size: 8 to 12 feet tall and wide

• Potential problems: No serious pests or diseases

• Note: Hopbush leaves come in two colors — green and purple-tinted.

Drought-Tolerant Ground Covers for Texas

Purple heart, creeping thyme, and silver ponyfoot are 3 of the best drought-tolerant ground covers for Texas. All 3 spread quickly, require minimal water, and add color or texture to beds and borders.

11. Purple Heart (Setcreasea pallida)

The purple heart is a low-growing perennial with purple leaves and stems, producing small pink flowers in summer. It is drought-tolerant, grows in a variety of soil types, and makes a good ground cover for your rock garden design.

• Plant type: Perennial ground cover

• USDA Hardiness Zone: 8 to 11

• Sun: Full sun to partial shade

• Soil: Well-draining soil, but can grow in a range of soil types

• Foliage: Evergreen

• Bloom time: Summer

• Water needs: Moderate

• Mature size: 0.5 to 0.75 feet tall and 1 to 2 feet wide

• Potential problems: Scales and mealybugs can cause issues.

• Note: The sap from this plant can irritate sensitive skin.

12. Creeping Thyme (Thymus serpyllum)

Creeping thyme is a tough, low-growing ground cover that blooms in summer with fragrant leaves and pink, lavender, or white flowers. It tolerates drought and grows in sandy or rocky soils.

If you want a grass alternative or are creating a living patio, this plant is a great choice.

• Plant type: Perennial ground cover

• USDA Hardiness Zone: 4 to 9

• Sun: Full sun

• Soil: Sandy or rocky soil

• Foliage: Evergreen

• Bloom time: Summer

• Water needs: Low

• Mature size: Up to 6 inches tall and 12 inches wide

• Potential problems: Overwatering can cause root rot.

• Note: Creeping thyme is deer-resistant and good for high-traffic areas.

13. Silver Ponyfoot (Dichondra argentea)

This West Texas native ground cover features small flowers and green, silvery foliage, making it an attractive option for homeowners who want low-maintenance plants. It grows well in different soil types and tolerates drought.

• Plant type: Perennial ground cover

• USDA Hardiness Zone: 8 to 11

• Sun: Full sun to partial shade

• Soil: Well-draining soil, but can grow in a range of soil types

• Foliage: Evergreen

• Bloom time: Summer

• Water needs: Low

• Mature size: 3 to 4 inches tall and 2 to 3 feet wide

• Potential problems: Too much water causes root rot, but it is relatively problem-free.

• Note: This plant grows quickly and can be used to prevent erosion.

Drought-Tolerant Cacti and Succulents for Texas

Golden barrels, agave, and yucca are top drought-tolerant cacti and succulents for Texas. These low-water plants are ideal for rock gardens, xeriscaping, and adding architectural interest to your landscape.

14. Golden Barrels (Echinocactus grusonii)

The golden barrel is a small, colorful cactus that comes in various sizes. These cacti have a distinctive round shape and are pale green with gold accents. They create focal points and add bold texture to any Texas landscape.

• Plant type: Cactus

• USDA Hardiness Zone: 9 to 12

• Sun: Full sun

• Soil: Well-draining loam or sandy soil

• Foliage: Evergreen

• Bloom time: Spring

• Water needs: Low

• Mature size: 2 to 3 feet tall and wide

• Potential problems: Sharp spines. Pests like spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects are something to watch for.

• Note: No problems with disease, and it is deer-resistant.

15. Agave (Agave spp.)

Agave is a popular succulent that thrives in Texas’ dry climate. It is hardy, low-maintenance, and comes in various shapes and sizes, making it a versatile option for cactus landscaping.

Once established, agave requires little water or fertilizer.

• Plant type: Succulent

• USDA Hardiness Zone: 8 to 11

• Sun: Full sun to partial shade, depending on the variety

• Soil: Well-draining

• Foliage: Evergreen

• Bloom time: Depends on the variety

• Water needs: Low

• Mature size: Depends on the variety

• Potential problems: Some varieties have sharp spines or thorns.

• Note: Agaves come in various sizes and shapes, from small rosettes to large architectural forms.

16. Yucca (Yucca spp.)

Yuccas are drought-tolerant succulents that thrive in Texas’ hot, dry climate. There are over 30 species, and this versatile plant comes in different shapes and sizes.

Spanish dagger grows multiple branches with lime-green leaves, while the red yucca produces pink flowers all year.

• Plant type: Succulent

• USDA Hardiness Zone: 5 to 10, depending on the cultivar

• Sun: Full sun

• Soil: Prefers sandy, well-drained soil

• Foliage: Evergreen

• Bloom time: Spring and summer

• Water needs: Low

• Mature size: Large yuccas can reach 30 feet and spread to 25 feet wide. Smaller varieties grow to be only 2 to 4 feet tall and wide.

• Potential problems: Too much water can cause fungal disease and blight.

• Note: Mildly toxic and one of the toxic plants for dogs and cats.

Drought-Tolerant Perennials for Texas

Blackfoot daisy and purple coneflower are 2 of the best drought-tolerant perennials for Texas. Unlike annuals, these plants come back every year and thrive in Texas heat with minimal water.

These hardy plants deliver color from spring through fall with minimal watering once established.

17. Blackfoot Daisy (Melampodium leucanthum)

Blackfoot daisies are hardy perennials that produce bright white flowers with yellow centers and a honey scent. They are drought-tolerant and grow in various soil types, from sand to clay.

This low-maintenance plant requires no fertilizer and very little water.

• Plant type: Perennial

• USDA Hardiness Zone: 4 to 9

• Sun: Full sun

• Soil: Well-draining soil, but can grow in a range of soil types

• Foliage: Evergreen

• Bloom time: Spring to fall

• Water needs: Low to moderate

• Mature size: 6 to 12 inches tall and 1 to 2 feet wide

• Potential problems: No serious pests or diseases. Be careful not to overwater it.

• Note: The blackfoot daisy is a great choice for rock gardens and xeriscapes. It looks great planted next to verbena and penstemons.

18. Purple Coneflower (Echinacea purpurea)

The purple coneflower is an attractive perennial that produces large, daisy-like flowers with purple petals and dark centers. It handles drought and grows in various soil types.

This low-maintenance plant works well as a border plant or in small front yards.

• Plant type: Perennial

• USDA Hardiness Zone: 3 to 8

• Sun: Full sun to partial shade

• Soil: Well-draining soil, but can grow in a range of soil types

• Foliage: Deciduous

• Bloom time: Summer

• Water needs: Low to moderate

• Mature size: 3 to 4 feet tall and 1 to 2 feet wide

• Potential problems: No serious pests or diseases

• Note: Several new hybrid varieties are available in various heights and colors, including green, orange, and pale pink.

19. Lantana (Lantana camara)

Lantana is a Texas favorite that produces clusters of yellow, orange, and red flowers from spring through the first frost. This tough perennial attracts butterflies, tolerates extreme heat, and thrives on neglect once established.

It spreads quickly and works well in borders, containers, and mass plantings.

• Plant type: Perennial

• USDA Hardiness Zone: 9 to 11

• Sun: Full sun to partial shade

• Soil: Well-draining soil; tolerates poor soils

• Foliage: Semi-evergreen

• Bloom time: Spring to fall

• Water needs: Low

• Mature size: Up to 4 to 5 feet tall and wide

• Potential problems: Can become invasive in some areas. Berries are toxic if ingested.

• Note: Lantana is deer-resistant and one of the best pollinator plants for Texas gardens.

20. Autumn Sage (Salvia greggii)

Autumn sage is a Texas native evergreen shrub that produces tubular flowers in red, pink, coral, or white from spring through fall. It is one of the best plants for attracting hummingbirds to your yard.

Once established, it needs very little water and handles full sun with ease.

• Plant type: Perennial

• USDA Hardiness Zone: 7 to 9

• Sun: Full sun to partial shade

• Soil: Well-draining soil; prefers limestone-based or rocky soil

• Foliage: Evergreen

• Bloom time: Spring to fall

• Water needs: Low

• Mature size: 3 to 5 feet tall and 3 feet wide

• Potential problems: No serious pests or diseases. Avoid overwatering.

• Note: Autumn sage is deer-resistant and attracts hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees.

Drought-Tolerant Ornamental Grasses for Texas

Drought-tolerant ornamental grasses add movement, texture, and year-round interest to a low-water landscape. These grasses thrive in Texas heat and require little supplemental water once established.

21. Gulf Muhly Grass (Muhlenbergia capillaris)

Gulf muhly grass is a Texas native known for its stunning pink-purple flower plumes that appear in fall. This low-maintenance grass grows in clumps, tolerates poor soil, and adds dramatic color to borders and mass plantings.

• Plant type: Ornamental grass

• USDA Hardiness Zone: 7 to 11

• Sun: Full sun

• Soil: Well-draining; tolerates sand, clay, and rocky soil

• Foliage: Semi-evergreen

• Bloom time: Fall

• Water needs: Moderate to low

• Mature size: 1 to 3 feet tall and 1.5 to 2 feet wide

• Potential problems: No serious pests or diseases

• Note: Gulf muhly grass is deer-resistant and attracts birds.

22. Lindheimer’s Muhly (Muhlenbergia lindheimeri)

Named after Texas botanist Ferdinand Lindheimer, this native bunch grass produces silvery flower plumes during the warm months. It handles full sun and poor soil with ease, making it a reliable choice for borders or natural-style plantings.

• Plant type: Ornamental grass

• USDA Hardiness Zone: 7 to 10

• Sun: Full sun

• Soil: Well-draining; tolerates limestone and rocky soil

• Foliage: Semi-evergreen

• Bloom time: Spring through fall

• Water needs: Moderate

• Mature size: 3 to 6 feet tall and 1 to 2 feet wide

• Potential problems: No serious pests or diseases

• Note: Lindheimer’s muhly is native to the Texas Hill Country and Edwards Plateau.

How to Plant and Care for Drought-Tolerant Plants in Texas

Choosing the right drought-tolerant plants is only half the work. How you plant and maintain them determines whether they thrive or struggle in Texas heat.

When to Plant Drought-Tolerant Plants in Texas

Fall is the best time to plant drought-tolerant species in Texas. Cooler temperatures and occasional rain give roots time to establish before summer heat arrives. Early spring is the next best option.

Watering Tips for Drought-Tolerant Plants

Water deeply but infrequently to encourage deep root growth. Newly planted specimens need regular watering for the first 1 to 2 growing seasons until their roots are fully established.

After that, most drought-tolerant plants can survive on rainfall alone, with occasional deep soaking during extended dry spells.

Soil and Mulch for Drought-Tolerant Plants

Most drought-tolerant plants prefer well-draining soil. If your soil is heavy clay, amend it with compost or expanded shale before planting.

Apply a 2- to-3-inch layer of mulch around plants to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature. Avoid piling mulch against stems, which can cause rot.

How to Fertilize Drought-Tolerant Plants

Skip the fertilizer. Most native and drought-tolerant plants thrive in lean soil. Over-fertilizing can cause leggy growth and reduce drought resistance.

When to Call a Drought-Tolerant Landscaping Pro

Designing a drought-tolerant landscape takes planning, from choosing the right plants for your soil and sun conditions to spacing them properly for mature growth. If you want expert guidance, LawnStarter’s local landscaping pros can help you select, install, and maintain drought-tolerant plants that thrive in your Texas yard.

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Main Image: Purple creeping thyme groundcover blooming in grass. Image Credit: Dan / Adobe Stock