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NZ Native Plants for Dry, Hot Conditions

What to Grow, Where, and Why

Dry, hot environments present challenges like low soil moisture, intense sun exposure, and high temperatures. Native plants adapted to these conditions often have tough, drought-resistant foliage, deep root systems, and growth habits that minimise water loss, making them perfect for sustainable landscaping and restoration in dry areas.

What Makes Dry, Hot Sites Unique

  • Climate: High summer temperatures, low rainfall, and strong sunlight.

  • Soil: Often sandy, rocky, or well-drained soils with low organic matter.

  • Water Availability: Limited and irregular, requiring drought tolerance.

  • Exposure: High UV radiation and wind that increase evaporation.

What to Plant by Dry, Hot Site Type

Site Type

Best Plant Choices

Why These Work

Dry hills and slopes

Kunzea ericoides (Kānuka), Leptospermum scoparium (Mānuka), Ozothamnus leptophyllus (Tauhinu), Coprosma Red Rock 

Hardy shrubs that tolerate drought and poor soils, with small, tough leaves that reduce water loss.

Rocky outcrops & ridges

Poa cita (Silver tussock), Leptospermum scoparium (Manuka), Olearia paniculata

Plants adapted to shallow soils and heat, with deep roots and spiny or small foliage to reduce moisture loss.

Dry river terraces & plains

Austroderia richardii (Toetoe), Coprosma propinqua, Olearia odorata, Astelia Westland; Coprosma ‘Hāwera’

Tough grasses and shrubs that survive dry conditions and provide shelter.

 

Signature Dry, Hot Native Plants

  • Astelia Westland – Strong architectural clumping plant; “withstanding most conditions including dry, cold & wind.” Good for contrast and tough spots.

  • Leptospermum scoparium (Mānuka) – Hardy shrub with fragrant foliage, drought adapted.

  • Ozothamnus leptophyllus (Tauhinu) – Light, silvery shrub well-suited to dry soils.

  • Poa cita (Silver tussock) – Deep-rooted tussock grass thriving in dry, exposed areas.

  • Coprosma Red Rock – Groundcover/divaricating shrub with small needle‑like foliage; good in hot, dry conditions; good for banks or underplanting.

Planting Tips for Dry, Hot Sites

Tip

Advice

Planting time

Early autumn or late winter to establish before hot, dry summer conditions.

Soil preparation

Incorporate organic matter if possible to improve moisture retention in poor soils.

Watering

Water regularly during establishment, then reduce frequency as plants mature and root deeply.

Mulching

Use coarse mulch to conserve soil moisture and protect roots from heat stress.

Shelter

Protect young plants from harsh winds with temporary shading or windbreaks if needed.

 

Why Choose Natives for Dry, Hot Sites?

  • Naturally drought-tolerant, reducing irrigation needs

  • Help stabilise soils and prevent erosion in dry landscapes

  • Provide habitat and food sources for native wildlife adapted to dry environments

  • Lower maintenance compared to exotic species in hot, dry gardens

  • Support natural regeneration and restoration of dryland ecosystems