Hydrangeas are a beautiful addition to any garden. fact. But they’re thirsty shrubs, and with rumors of Wimbledon swapping out hydrangeas for even more drought-tolerant plants as extreme heat becomes more common, garden experts have revealed five drought-tolerant plants you can swap hydrangeas for—ones that still provide a stunning and attractive display.
Now I’m not saying you should stop Growing hydrangea. In fact, if you have a wet garden with moist clay soil, hydrangeas are among the best flowering shrubs you can plant. However, as summer gets warmer and warmer, more gardeners are looking to it Their gardens heat-proof.
To create a garden that can withstand extremely hot weather, Drought tolerant cultivar is essential. Here are five gorgeous, drought-tolerant flowering plants that you can swap hydrangea for.
1. Viburnum
(Image credit: Getty Images/Photos by RA Kearton)
Viburnum is a stunning flowering shrub that is quietly replacing hydrangea For a while now. such as varieties Viburnum Opulus (£34.99, Thompson & Morgan) Mophead look similar to hydrangeas, but are hardier once established.
‘Viburnums have large clusters of flowers that can look like hydrangeas. If you are growing an evergreen variety, they are generally drought tolerant and do not require additional water once they are established. They are better able to survive hot summers or dry spells, as these conditions can cause hydrangeas to drop their buds,” says Richard Barker, horticulturist and commercial director. LBS Horticulture.
Where to buy viburnum
2. Agapanthus
(Image credit: Getty Images/Katrin Rae Shumakov)
One of the reasons we love hydrangeas is their large, flower heads. If you want the same dramatic look, a well-placed Agapanthus can have the same effect. Not to mention, it’s also one The best plants for a Mediterranean garden.
Agapanthus is another plant that is popular for garden displays. This hardy herbaceous plant, also commonly known as African lily, thrives in dry conditions and produces attractive flowers in a rich purple color throughout the summer,’ says plant and garden expert Paul Parker. Perennial experts, J. Parkers.
‘One of my favorite varieties Agapanthus ‘Melbourne’A bi-colored variety with distinctive lilac stripes running through its white flowers.’
Where to buy agapanthus
3. Sedums
(Image credit: Future plc/Camilla Reynolds)
With thick, fleshy leaves and stunning star-shaped flowers, it’s easy to see why gardeners are choosing them Growing Sedums. Not only is it a drought tolerant plant, but it’s brilliant for attracting pollinators and other animals. Wildlife Even in your garden.
‘Sedum produces large, flat-topped clusters of pink flowers that bloom in late summer. Established sedum plants are drought tolerant and rarely need water unless there is prolonged dry weather, as they store water in their leaves. It also thrives in full, direct sunlight, which would normally scorch hydrangeas,’ says Richard.
Where to buy sedum
4. Euphorbia
(Image credit: Getty Images/ Alex Manders)
A A bedding plant that banishes hatredEuphorbia is another great choice for Mediterranean gardens and one that will add height and structure to your outdoor space.
‘Euphorbia is a great addition to any garden, as it is both low maintenance and drought-resistant. There are many different types of euphorbia in the genus, so choosing the right variety is key,’ says Paul.
‘I recommend Euphorbia ‘Bonfire‘, a popular spring perennial with yellow flowers and colorful foliage that changes from green and purple to burgundy in summer to fiery red in late summer, hence the name.’
Where to buy euphorbia
5. Escalonia
(Image credit: Getty Images)
Escalonia is fast growing A shrub that thrives on neglectIt’s a great choice if you don’t have hours of spare time to spend tending to your garden. Plus, this minimal effort will be rewarded with beautiful pink and white flower clusters.
‘Escallonia is an evergreen shrub that will produce clusters of pink, red or white flowers in summer. Plants will need regular watering when established, but after this, they are very drought tolerant and can handle dry spells well,’ says Richard.
Where to buy Escalonia
While hydrangeas will always hold a special place in my heart, and I’m sure yours too, these drought-tolerant alternatives are an excellent choice if hydrangeas are struggling to thrive in your garden.
