California Poppy – A drought-tolerant wildflower with bright orange blooms, full sun, 6–12 inches tall.

Indian Paintbrush – Striking red flower spikes that love full sun, reaching 12–24 inches tall.

Penstemon – Tubular red or purple blooms attract hummingbirds, full sun, 1–3 feet tall.

Rocky Mountain Columbine – Blue and white blooms thrive in sun to partial shade, 12–24 inches tall.

Blue Flax – Delicate blue flowers blooming in full sun, growing 1–2 feet tall.

Sagebrush – Silvery-green, aromatic leaves thrive in full sun, reaching 2–5 feet tall, offering habitat for many desert animals.

Rabbitbrush – Bright yellow blooms add late-summer color, growing 3–6 feet in sunny spots, attracting pollinators and requiring little maintenance.

Manzanita – Glossy evergreen foliage and pink blossoms love full sun, 2–7 feet tall, with striking red bark adding year-round beauty.

Bitterbrush – Hardy native with golden flowers, flourishes in sunny, dry soil, 3–5 feet tall, supporting deer and small wildlife populations nearby.

Snowberry – Produces clusters of white berries in sun or partial shade, 3–6 feet tall, providing food for birds throughout the winter season.

Western gardens thrive best with drought-tolerant plants, so choose native species adapted to dry, sunny conditions. Use drip irrigation or soaker hoses to conserve water and avoid frequent shallow watering, which can stress roots. Adding mulch helps retain soil moisture, reduce weeds, and protect plants from extreme heat. Finally, group plants with similar water and sunlight needs for easier care and healthier growth.