In Idaho’s arid climate, selecting the right plants for commercial landscapes can be challenging.
However, with careful consideration of drought-tolerant species, it’s possible to create beautiful, low-maintenance outdoor spaces that thrive in our unique environment. This guide will introduce you to a variety of trees, shrubs, perennials, and grasses that are well-suited to Idaho’s climate and require minimal watering once established.
Drought-tolerant trees suitable for a commercial landscape
Regarding drought-tolerant trees, three species stand out for their ability to withstand Idaho’s dry conditions.
The Ponderosa Pine (Pinus ponderosa) is a majestic evergreen that can reach impressive heights, providing year-round interest and shade.
The Rocky Mountain Juniper (Juniperus scopulorum) offers a more compact option, with attractive blue-green foliage that adds texture to the landscape.
For those seeking a deciduous option, the Bur Oak (Quercus macrocarpa) is an excellent choice, known for its robust nature and distinctive, deeply lobed leaves.
Drought-tolerant shrubs suitable for a commercial landscape
Shrubs are crucial in commercial landscapes, offering structure and visual interest. Three drought-resistant options that perform well in Idaho are Rabbitbrush (Chrysothamnus nauseosus), Sagebrush (Artemisia tridentata), and Mountain Mahogany (Cercocarpus ledifolius).
Rabbitbrush boasts vibrant yellow flowers in late summer, while Sagebrush provides a soft, silvery texture to the landscape.
Mountain Mahogany, with its small, leathery leaves and interesting seed plumes, adds an element of intrigue to any garden design.
Drought-tolerant, colorful perennials are ideal for a commercial landscape
To add pops of color to your commercial landscape, consider incorporating drought-tolerant perennials. Yarrow (Achillea millefolium) offers flat-topped flower clusters in various hues, attracting pollinators throughout the summer.
The vibrant Blanket Flower (Gaillardia aristata) brings warm tones of red, orange, and yellow to the garden, while the classic Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta) provides cheerful yellow blooms with dark centers.
These hardy perennials not only withstand dry conditions but also return year after year, offering long-term value for your landscape investment.
Drought-tolerant ornamental grasses are ideal for commercial landscapes
No drought-tolerant landscape is complete without the addition of ornamental grasses.
Blue Grama (Bouteloua gracilis) is a low-growing grass with distinctive, eyelash-like seed heads that add whimsy to the garden.
Idaho Fescue (Festuca idahoensis), true to its name, is perfectly adapted to our state’s climate, forming neat clumps of blue-green foliage.
Western Wheatgrass (Pascopyrum smithii) offers a taller option, with attractive blue-green blades that sway gracefully in the breeze.
