Reno’s high-desert climate brings hot summers, cold winters, and low annual rainfall—making plant selection a critical part of successful landscaping. Homeowners in Northern Nevada are turning to drought-tolerant and native plants to create low-maintenance, attractive yards that thrive in local conditions. Here are some top plant options that work well in the Reno area.
Sagebrush (Artemisia tridentata)
As Nevada’s state plant, sagebrush is well-suited for local landscaping. It’s highly drought-tolerant, low-maintenance, and adds a soft, silvery texture to gardens. Sagebrush thrives in full sun and dry soil.
Russian Sage (Perovskia atriplicifolia)
This flowering perennial adds vibrant purple color from summer through fall. It’s deer-resistant, drought-tolerant, and attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies—making it both beautiful and eco-friendly.
Yarrow (Achillea millefolium)
Yarrow is a hardy, sun-loving perennial with clusters of small flowers in white, yellow, pink, or red. It requires minimal watering and grows well in rocky or sandy soil—ideal for Reno’s terrain.
Blue Fescue (Festuca glauca)
This ornamental grass is compact and low-maintenance, with bluish foliage that adds color and texture. It’s perfect for borders or filling small gaps in your garden.
Rabbitbrush (Chrysothamnus nauseosus)
A common sight in the Nevada landscape, rabbitbrush produces bright yellow flowers in late summer and fall. It handles extreme temperatures well and supports native wildlife.
Penstemon (Beardtongue)
With showy blooms in shades of pink, red, and purple, Penstemon is a favorite for attracting hummingbirds. It’s a hardy plant that performs well in dry soil and full sun.
Serviceberry (Amelanchier alnifolia)
A small shrub or tree, Serviceberry offers year-round interest: white spring flowers, edible summer berries, and colorful fall foliage. It’s well-adapted to the Reno climate and supports local birds.
Tips for Successful Reno Landscaping
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Use mulch to retain moisture and reduce weeds.
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Group plants by water needs to improve efficiency.
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Incorporate rocks and gravel to reflect Reno’s natural landscape.
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Install drip irrigation to deliver water directly to the roots and minimize waste.
Choosing the right plants for Reno landscaping means focusing on drought tolerance, low maintenance, and seasonal appeal. By selecting native and climate-adapted plants, you can create a beautiful yard that conserves water and thrives year-round. Whether you're updating your curb appeal or designing a new garden, these plant choices are practical, sustainable, and perfectly suited to Northern Nevada living.
Photography Credit : Firesky Design-Build
