Australian native plants that survive drought or low water
Australia is the driest inhabited continent on Earth, so many of our native plants have evolved to cope with unreliable rainfall. Their drought tolerance is cleverly built into the way they grow. Narrow leaves reduce water loss, while grey or textured foliage helps reflect heat. Some store moisture in their leaves, while others send roots to access deep water.
Some Australian natives can survive dry conditions that would quickly stress or kill exotic garden plants. Understanding how these plants operate explains why natives consistently outperform during drought.
The list below is split into two parts. The first covers reliable, well-known groupings of native plants that have proven themselves repeatedly. The second highlights lesser-known natives that are still readily available but offer a bit more individuality without increasing water use.
10 familiar drought-tolerant groups of Australian native plants
1. Callistemons and bottlebrush hybrids
Bottlebrushes are well known for their toughness. Compact and modern bottlebrush hybrids are some of the most reliable flowering shrubs for Australian dry gardens. Their brush-like flowers are structurally tough, nectar-rich and designed for heat. Once established, most varieties will continue flowering through warm, dry periods.
Why they work
Many callistemons have narrow, leathery leaves and strong woody root systems that help reduce water loss and cope with extended dry periods. They are capable of maintaining healthy foliage and repeat flowering with far less supplemental watering than many exotic flowering shrubs.
Diversity
This group includes compact shrubs, medium hedging plants and small trees with long flowering seasons and strong wildlife appeal. With a wide range of flower colours from deep red to soft pink and cream, and growth habits suited to courtyards through to larger landscapes, there is a bottlebrush to suit almost any Australian garden setting.
Watch out for
Some larger or soft-leaf varieties require more water during establishment and may struggle in shallow or very dry soils. Choosing the right species or hybrid for your soil depth and drainage is essential to ensure long-term resilience in a low-water garden.
Best options
- Crimson bottlebrush (Callistemon citrinus) — reliable and widely adaptable, suited to temperate, subtropical and Mediterranean climates.
- Weeping bottlebrush (Callistemon viminalis) — ideal for warmer temperate and subtropical regions, especially where summers are hot.
- Dwarf bottlebrush varieties (Callistemon hybrids such as 'Little John') — compact and hardy, well suited to small gardens in temperate and subtropical climates.
2. Correas
Correas are excellent drought performers once settled, particularly in drier shade. Their natural growth habit suits sheltered garden positions.
Why they work
Correas have thick, often hairy leaves that slow evaporation and suit dry, sheltered conditions. Many species naturally grow in exposed coastal or rocky environments, which makes them well adapted to low-water gardens once established.
Diversity
They range from low groundcover forms to medium shrubs and are valued for winter flowering. Flower colours span white, green, pink and red, providing nectar at a time of year when few other native plants are in bloom.
Watch out for
Poor drainage causes more issues for correas than lack of water, particularly in heavier soils. They are best suited to temperate and cool temperate climates and can struggle in high humidity or tropical conditions.
Best options
- White correa (Correa alba) — tough and adaptable, suited to temperate and coastal climates including exposed sites.
- Native fuchsia (Correa reflexa) — best in temperate to cool temperate regions with good drainage and light shade.
- Dusky bells correa (Correa 'Dusky Bells') — a compact hybrid well suited to temperate climates and protected garden positions.
3. Hakeas
Hakeas are often overlooked in home gardens but are naturally adapted to dry environments. Many have tough leaves and spectacular flowers.
Why they work
Many hakeas evolved in harsh environments and use needle-like or rigid foliage to drastically reduce water loss. Deep root systems and low nutrient requirements allow them to perform well in sandy or impoverished soils with minimal supplemental watering once established.
Diversity
This group includes compact shrubs through to larger architectural plants with dramatic flowers and sculptural seed pods. Flower colours range from creamy white and blush pink to deep red, often appearing in late autumn through winter when the garden needs structure and interest.
Watch out for
Some species have very sharp foliage and are better suited to open spaces away from paths. Most hakeas demand excellent drainage and are best suited to Mediterranean, temperate and semi-arid climates rather than humid tropical regions.
Best options
- Pincushion hakea (Hakea laurina) — suited to Mediterranean, temperate and semi-arid climates with good drainage.
- Red pokers hakea (Hakea bucculenta) — best in Mediterranean and inland temperate climates with low humidity.
- Grass-leaf hakea (Hakea francisiana) — well suited to semi-arid and Mediterranean regions with sandy or free-draining soils.
4. Grevilleas (small-leaf and compact types)
While not all grevilleas are drought tolerant, many small-leaf varieties perform exceptionally well in dry conditions.
Why they work
Small-leaf grevilleas lose less moisture through transpiration and tolerate drought far better than large-leaf varieties. Many are adapted to lean, free-draining soils and can maintain flowering with minimal supplemental watering once established.
Diversity
They range from groundcovers to shrubs and small trees with flowers that attract birds year-round. Flower colours span red, pink, orange and cream, making them one of the most versatile groups for adding long-lasting colour to low-water gardens.
Watch out for
Large, soft-leaf grevilleas generally need more water and are less reliable in prolonged dry conditions. Most grevilleas require excellent drainage and are best suited to Mediterranean, temperate and subtropical climates rather than humid tropical regions.
Best options
- Rosemary grevillea (Grevillea rosmarinifolia) — hardy and reliable in temperate, Mediterranean and semi-arid climates.
- Scarlet Sprite grevillea (Grevillea 'Scarlet Sprite') — a compact shrub suited to temperate and Mediterranean climates.
- Poorinda Royal Mantle grevillea (Grevillea 'Poorinda Royal Mantle') — a tough groundcover well suited to temperate and Mediterranean regions with good drainage.
5. Native grasses
Native grasses such as kangaroo grass and wallaby grass are among the most drought-resilient plants available.
Why they work
Native grasses survive drought by developing deep root systems and entering dormancy during extreme dry periods. Rather than failing under stress, they slow growth and conserve energy, allowing them to recover rapidly when rainfall returns.
Diversity
They include tufted, clumping and spreading forms that add movement and texture to the garden. Their fine foliage softens hard landscaping and pairs well with flowering shrubs in waterwise planting schemes.
Watch out for
Some grasses look dry or untidy during drought but recover quickly with rain or seasonal change. Most are best suited to temperate, Mediterranean and semi-arid climates and may struggle in persistently humid tropical conditions.
Best options
- Kangaroo grass (Themeda triandra) — highly adaptable and suited to temperate, Mediterranean and semi-arid climates.
- Stout spear grass (Austrostipa ramosissima) — best in temperate and semi-arid regions with free-draining soils.
- Wallaby grasses (Rytidosperma species) — reliable across temperate and Mediterranean climates and tolerant of low fertility soils.
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6. Lomandra and similar strappy plants
Lomandras are widely used for a reason. Their overall toughness makes them extremely reliable in dry conditions.
Why they work
Lomandras have fibrous root systems and tough foliage that allow them to withstand long dry periods with minimal care. Once established, they maintain structure and colour even through extended heat and low rainfall.
Diversity
This group ranges from compact edging plants to large architectural forms. Many selections differ in leaf width, height and growth habit, making them useful for mass planting, erosion control or structural contrast in waterwise gardens.
Watch out for
While lomandras tolerate a wide range of soil conditions, prolonged waterlogging in heavy, compacted soils can reduce vigour over time. Good drainage still improves long-term performance, particularly in cooler climates.
Best options
- Spiny-headed mat rush (Lomandra longifolia) — extremely adaptable and suited to temperate, Mediterranean and subtropical climates.
- Tanika lomandra (Lomandra 'Tanika') — a compact form ideal for temperate and Mediterranean regions.
- Nyalla lomandra (Lomandra 'Nyalla') — well suited to temperate and subtropical climates with good drainage.
7. Dianella
Dianellas cope well with drought once established and offer more colour and softness than some other strappy plants.
Why they work
Dianellas tolerate drought by balancing flexible roots with tough, strappy foliage that copes well with heat. Many species naturally grow in open woodland and coastal environments, allowing them to adapt to dry periods once settled.
Diversity
They come in blue-green, green and variegated forms with decorative berries and flowers. Their blue to purple berries and star-shaped flowers add seasonal interest without demanding high water use.
Watch out for
Some varieties benefit from occasional deep watering during prolonged extreme heat. Most dianellas are best suited to temperate, Mediterranean and subtropical climates and prefer well-drained soils rather than heavy, permanently wet conditions.
Best options
- Black-anther flax lily (Dianella revoluta) — hardy and well suited to temperate, Mediterranean and semi-arid climates.
- Blue flax lily (Dianella caerulea) — adaptable across temperate and subtropical climates including coastal areas.
- Little Jess flax lily (Dianella 'Little Jess') — a compact variety suited to temperate and Mediterranean gardens.
8. Saltbushes and other silver-leaf natives
Plants with silver or grey foliage are often highly drought tolerant because they reflect heat and reduce water loss.
Why they work
Silver and grey foliage reflects sunlight and reduces leaf temperature, limiting water loss during hot conditions. Many saltbush species are also adapted to saline, sandy or coastal soils, giving them an additional edge in harsh environments.
Diversity
This group includes low shrubs and larger forms with strong structural presence. Their muted foliage tones contrast beautifully with green grasses and flowering shrubs in waterwise Australian gardens.
Watch out for
Many prefer open, sunny positions and may struggle in dense shade. Most are best suited to Mediterranean, temperate and semi-arid climates and require excellent drainage for long-term performance.
Best options
- Coast saltbush (Atriplex cinerea) — well suited to temperate and coastal climates with sandy or free-draining soils.
- Creeping saltbush (Atriplex semibaccata) — ideal for Mediterranean and semi-arid regions and useful for groundcover in dry sites.
- Berry saltbush (Rhagodia spinescens) — hardy in temperate and semi-arid climates and tolerant of wind and poor soils.
9. Pigface and succulent natives
Succulent natives store water, allowing them to survive extended dry periods with ease.
Why they work
Succulent natives store water directly in their leaves, allowing them to survive extended drought with minimal stress. Their low, spreading growth also helps shade the soil surface, reducing evaporation in exposed positions.
Diversity
They are mostly spreading groundcovers but vary in flower colour and growth habit. Flowers range from bright pink and purple to yellow and magenta, often appearing in abundance through spring and summer in full sun.
Watch out for
Heavy soils without good drainage can lead to rot. Most succulent natives are best suited to Mediterranean, temperate and coastal climates and perform poorly in persistently wet or shaded conditions.
Best options
- Pigface (Carpobrotus glaucescens) — well suited to temperate and coastal climates with sandy or free-draining soils.
- Rounded noon-flower (Disphyma crassifolium) — ideal for Mediterranean and coastal regions and tolerant of wind and salt spray.
- Rock purslane (Calandrinia grandiflora) — best in Mediterranean and semi-arid climates with excellent drainage.
10. Tea tree
Some tea tree species are surprisingly drought tolerant, particularly those with smaller leaves and compact habits.
Why they work
Many tea trees tolerate drought by combining tough foliage with flexible growth habits. Smaller leaf forms lose less moisture through transpiration and can maintain flowering and structure once established in well-drained soils.
Diversity
They range from groundcovers to shrubs and small trees with aromatic leaves and seasonal flowers. Flower colours include white, pink and deep rose, providing strong spring display in low-water gardens.
Watch out for
Some tea trees prefer more regular moisture, so plant selection is critical. Hardy forms are generally best suited to temperate, Mediterranean and coastal climates with good drainage, while humid tropical regions can increase disease pressure.
Best options
- Manuka tea tree (compact forms of Leptospermum scoparium) — best suited to temperate and Mediterranean climates with free-draining soil.
- Lemon-scented tea tree (Leptospermum polygalifolium) — adaptable across temperate and subtropical climates with good drainage.
- Cardwell tea tree (Leptospermum 'Cardwell') — a low-growing form suited to temperate and coastal regions.
10 lesser-known Australian natives that handle drought
If you are already familiar with the usual drought-tolerant natives, the plants below offer something a bit different. They are tough, water-wise and widely available, but tend to fly under the radar a little more in home gardens.
1. Mulla mulla (Ptilotus exaltatus)
This plant looks soft and delicate, but it is naturally adapted to hot, dry inland conditions and thrives in free-draining soil with minimal water. Its sculptural flower spikes add texture that stands out from more familiar natives. Avoid heavy soils or overwatering, which can cause rapid decline.
Mulla mulla tip: Cut the fluffy flower spikes back after the first flush to encourage a second round of blooming and resist the urge to overwater — these are plants shaped by the Australian interior.
2. Common fringe myrtle (Calytrix tetragona)
Calytrix has fine foliage and star-shaped flowers that belie its ability to tolerate long dry spells. It adds a light, airy quality to dry gardens without increasing water demand. It performs best in open, sunny positions and struggles in humid or poorly drained sites.
3. Golden buttons (Chrysocephalum apiculatum)
This low-growing native daisy thrives in hot, dry conditions and flowers reliably with very little supplemental water. It works well as a groundcover or filler plant where colour is needed without ongoing care. Excess watering or rich soils tend to reduce flowering and resilience.
4. Silver cassia (Senna artemisioides)
Silver cassia is exceptionally drought tolerant due to its soft grey foliage, which reflects heat and reduces water loss. It offers strong contrast in dry gardens and bright yellow flowers with minimal input. Some forms can grow larger than expected, so allow space or choose compact varieties.
5. Hop goodenia (Goodenia ovata)
Often overlooked, hop goodenia tolerates dry conditions well and provides long-lasting colour when many plants have shut down. It suits informal, low-maintenance gardens and supports pollinators.
6. Creeping boobialla (Myoporum parvifolium)
This groundcover is extremely drought tolerant and spreads to shade soil and reduce evaporation. It performs well in hot, exposed sites and stabilises dry slopes. Poor drainage is a greater risk than drought and should be avoided.
7. Creeping saltbush (Atriplex semibaccata)
Creeping saltbush is a low-growing native groundcover that thrives in dry, exposed conditions and survives extended drought. Its silver-grey foliage reflects heat and helps reduce moisture loss while its spreading habit shades soil and limits evaporation.
8. Soft spear grass (Austrostipa mollis)
Austrostipa mollis is a native grass that thrives in dry, open conditions and survives extended drought by entering dormancy. Its fine texture and gentle movement add interest to water-wise gardens. Some self-seeding may occur, which can be managed through selective removal if needed.
9. Spotted emu bush (Eremophila maculata)
Spotted emu bush survives extended dry periods by reducing water loss through resinous foliage and efficient growth habits. Its distinctive spotted tubular flowers provide colour and interest even during hot, dry conditions. It performs best in full sun with excellent drainage and minimal interference.
10. Cushion bush (Leucophyta brownii)
Cushion bush survives long dry periods through its fine, silver foliage, which reflects heat and significantly reduces moisture loss. It forms a soft, rounded shrub that holds its shape and colour even during extended drought. Overwatering and heavy soils are far more likely to cause problems than lack of water.
Gardening successfully in drought and heat
Choosing drought-tolerant native plants is only part of the equation. How you prepare the soil and work in hot conditions makes a real difference to how well those plants cope long term.
Using tools designed for cutting into hard or compacted ground makes planting easier and helps ensure plants are set at the right depth rather than shallowly placed and prone to drying out. Preparing the soil properly once reduces the need for ongoing intervention later.
During establishment, targeted watering is far more effective than frequent surface watering. Ollas are particularly useful in dry conditions, slowly delivering moisture directly to plant roots while reducing evaporation and water waste. This supports young plants as they settle in without encouraging shallow root growth.
Gardening in heat also places demands on the gardener. Wearing gardening gloves protects hands from dry, abrasive soil and rough foliage, while a sun hat helps manage heat exposure during planting and maintenance. Working early in the day, mulching well and letting plants adapt naturally all support a more sustainable, low-stress approach to gardening in challenging conditions.
By pairing genuinely drought-tolerant native plants with the right tools and techniques, it is possible to create a garden that is resilient, water-wise and far better suited to Australia's climate, now and into the future.
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A Guide to Australian Native Gardening
How to plan, plant and care for a thriving native garden, whatever your experience level.
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