Like it or not, it seems these periods of high heat are the new normal and in Portland, we've been experiencing above average temps for weeks. As we work to adapt ourselves and our gardens to these challenging conditions, having a palette of plants to draw upon that will take the heat in stride is essential. ..

This parking strip garden in Portland, OR is a tough and resilient composition for full sun that has good year-round structure thanks to Bupleurum fruticosum and Cupressus sempervirens 'Totem', but it also provides a very long season of bloom with the addition of easy care perennials like Geranium 'Rozanne' and Coreopsis ‘Zagreb'. ..

Who doesn't want this scene in their garden? This summer blooming perennial border that includes Echinacea 'Merlot' and Sedum 'Autumn Joy' is a magnet for butterflies, bees and hummers.  ..

This is a drought tolerant, easy-care plant combo recipe for full sun. The strappy, golden, variegated foliage of Yucca filamentosa 'Golden Sword' provides structure and is handsome year-round, but this planting combination really shines from mid to late summer when in bloom. ..

WHY IT WORKS: This planting combination for your garden is ultra low maintenance without sacrificing style. With its reliance on foliage, not flower, this tough, drought-tolerant quartet relies on a variety of colors and textures that keep the scene interesting year-round.   ..

This drought tolerant perennial combination for full sun is an easy way to add a carefree planting scheme to your home and it lends a stylish and modern flair to your garden.   ..

This waterwise perennial planting combination for a full sun garden provides long-lasting summer-into-fall blooms, fragrance and is a magnet for hummingbirds, bees and pollinators.  ..