Colorado's climate can be challenging for plants, with intense sun, low humidity, temperature swings, and occasional late-season freezes. These low-maintenance plants not only survive but thrive in our conditions.
1. Russian Sage (Perovskia atriplicifolia)
This stunning perennial produces clouds of lavender-blue flowers from summer through fall. Its silvery foliage is drought-tolerant and deer-resistant. Russian sage grows 3-5 feet tall and loves full sun.
Care: Minimal watering once established, cut back to 6 inches in early spring.
2. Karl Foerster Feather Reed Grass
This ornamental grass is a Colorado favorite for good reason. It provides vertical interest, beautiful plumes in summer, and maintains structure through winter. Growing 4-5 feet tall, it works well as a specimen or in mass plantings.
Care: Tolerates various soil types, cut back once in early spring before new growth emerges.
3. Coneflower (Echinacea)
Native to North America, coneflowers are incredibly tough. Their daisy-like flowers bloom from June through September and attract butterflies. Available in purple, white, yellow, orange, and pink varieties.
Care: Deadhead for continued blooming or leave seed heads for winter birds. Divide every 3-4 years.
4. Blue Mist Spirea (Caryopteris)
This compact shrub produces abundant blue flowers in late summer when many other plants have finished blooming. It's drought-tolerant, deer-resistant, and attracts pollinators.
Care: Cut back hard in early spring. Extremely drought-tolerant once established.
5. Autumn Joy Sedum
This succulent perennial is nearly indestructible. Its thick leaves store water, making it extremely drought-tolerant. Flowers transition from pale pink to deep rose and finally russet-bronze, providing interest from August through winter.
Care: Requires virtually no maintenance. Simply cut back old flower heads in spring.
Planting Tips
- Prepare soil with compost before planting
- Water regularly during the first growing season to establish roots
- Apply 2-3 inches of mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds
- Group plants with similar water needs together
Ready to create a beautiful, low-maintenance landscape? Contact Weston Landscape & Design for professional design and planting services.