Sun-loving Waterwise Plant Combo in Sunset Tones

This combination would work well in a Pacific Northwest landscape that is not automatically irrigated. Most of the plants used in this plant combo with make do with occasional  water and some actually prefer NO summer water. So without an automatic system, you'll be able to spot-water; accurately delivering supplemental water as needed, where needed. Specifically, the Sunset manzanita and California fuchsia would be fine without any supplemental water, although they'll tolerate some. Be aware: some varieties of Arctostaphylos are much fussier and do not tolerate any summer water.  The others plants included in this vignette will appreciate periodic dousings to keep them looking their best and performing well. That said, this combination is very drought-tolerant and is well adapted the winter wet, summer dry cycle of PNW gardens with just a bit of well-timed care and maintenance. 

Handsome year-round, this garden plan includes a nice balance of evergreen plants for structure; plants that flower throughout the year; and a pleasing composition of varied plant shapes and foliage textures. The largest plants—the ninebark, manzanita, and lawson cypress—can be arranged in an informal hedge to provide screening or privacy. Surround with the lower growing plants to create a mid-level that includes the blue star juniper, Corsican hellebore, and yucca. Anchor the scene and suppress weeds with swirls of Carex testacea carpeting the ground. Decorate the in-between spaces with drifts of flowers—the coneflowers, hummingbird mint, and California fuchsia create a floral banquet for butterflies, hummingbirds and other pollinators.


Growing Conditions

Zone: 7, 8, 9
Exposure: Full Sun, Afternoon Sun
Water Needs: Low, Occasional, Drought-tolerant

Design Considerations

Style: Naturalistic, Northwest Eclectic, Wildlife Friendly, Waterwise
Features: Attracts Pollinator, Drought Tolerant, Fabulous Foliage, Four Season Appeal, Harmonious Colors, Low Maintenance, Varied Foliage, Texture, and Form, Warm Colors, Winter Interest
Focus: Color Theme, Curb Appeal, Hellstrip / Parking Strip, Mixed Border, Saving Water, Year-round Interest
Seasons of Interest: Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall, Year-round Interest, Three Seasons of Interest

Care and Maintenance


Maintenance Level: low
Maintenance Tasks: Once-a-Year Care, Deadheading



Plants In this Combo