10 flowers to plant that barely need watering and are perfect for lazy gardeners

Daily Record

30-04-2025

If you want your garden to be awash with colour this summer but lack the time, or indeed the inclination to tend to it, the good news is there are plants that can easily withstand a bit of neglect. Some varieties are even able to thrive with very little watering meaning lazy gardeners can have the best of both worlds.
So even if you have committed to an extended holiday this summer or simply know you'll forget to get the watering can out there are options for you to ensure you plants still bloom. The trick is to choose species that are drought-tolerant and are used to warmer, dry weather.
And while we don't usually have an issue with a lack of rain, a heatwave or prolonged dry spell won't faze these unthirsty plants which don't require constant or frequent watering.
The experts at Southern Living have helpfully compiled a list of 10 flowers that won't wilt if they're not drenched daily so you can plant them and pretty much forget about them.
And while one is perfect for cat lovers, others promise to attract butterflies to your garden this summer and all will add a pop of colour to your borders and beds, reports the Mirror.
1. Globe amaranth
Southern Living describes the globe amaranth as 'a lazy gardener's dream'. They are easy to grow from seed and don't require deadheading.
They're beautiful to look at, too. Their compact blooms come in electric purples and deep pinks – adding eye-catching pops of colour to your garden.
2. Summer snapdragon
The clue is in the name – these elegant flowers enjoy basking in the sun. They are native to the tropics and are distinctive for their tall flowerheads that come in blue, pink and purple.
To take care of them properly, they only need occasional deadheading. They are also butterfly magnets, so gardeners can enjoy an influx of the fluttery winged insects this summer.
3. Blanket flowers
Native to North America, these gorgeous blood-orange flowers are frequently found growing by beaches. This means they're accustomed to drier climates and high temperatures.
If you want to see them flourish, clip their old flowerheads to allow new growth. As an added bonus, these sweet flowers are known to attract butterflies to your garden.
4. Dianthus
These five-pronged blooms are mainly native to Europe and Asia. With their deep pink hues, they make a gorgeous addition to your garden.
Plus, they don't require much watering. They don't enjoy extreme midsummer temperatures, however this is unlikely to be a problem in a British garden.
5. Ornamental purslane
These delicate, trailing flowers come in an irresistible shade of sunset red and make fantastic flowers for a hanging basket. They require minimal maintenance and prefer less water.
6. Lantana
These tiny yellow flowers can add much-needed joy to any garden. Better still, they are incredibly low maintenance and can be pretty much left to their own devices.
They don't need deadheading or much watering. Just make sure they are receiving at least six hours of direct sunlight a day and are placed in well-draining soil.
7. Butterfly bush
Named so for its ability to attract butterflies and other pollinators, the butterfly bush is a must for any garden. Its graceful purple flowers add an unmistakable regal look.
Plus, it's also ideal for anywhere that may go through a period of drought. The bush can survive for several weeks without any water.
8. Lavender
These purple plants are already well-loved for their distinctive fragrance. But it turns out they're also great for an absent gardener.
Native to the sunny Mediterranean, lavenders are accustomed to periods of little rain and high heat. Simply place them in a sunny spot and allow them to freshen up your garden.
9. Purple coneflower
These tall, pink flowers will brighten up any home. Plus, their bright blooms are fantastic magnets for pollinators, bringing life to your lawn.
It's advisable to deadhead their old blooms to allow for new flower growth. However, if you don't, Southern Living advises that their old seeds make great food for finches.
10. Catmint
As the name suggests, this is a must for anyone who loves cats. These tall drought-resistant plants somewhat resemble lavender, however they come with their own lemony-mint scent – which is known to draw felines to your yard.