Canberra's Best Plant Choices for Low-Maintenance Gardens

Apr 08, 2025By Claudio Mauro

CM

Embrace the Beauty of Low-Maintenance Gardens

Creating a garden that requires minimal upkeep doesn't mean sacrificing beauty or variety. With the right plant choices, you can enjoy a lush and vibrant garden without spending hours tending to it. Canberra's climate offers unique challenges, but also opportunities for gardeners seeking low-maintenance solutions.

For those looking to bring greenery into their outdoor spaces without the added stress of constant care, selecting plants that thrive in the local environment is key. Below, we explore some of the best options for low-maintenance gardens in Canberra.

drought tolerant plants

Choose Native Plants

Native plants are naturally adapted to Canberra's climate and soil conditions, making them an excellent choice for low-maintenance gardens. These plants are resilient, drought-tolerant, and support local wildlife, including birds and beneficial insects.

Kangaroo Grass

Kangaroo Grass is an attractive native grass that adds texture and movement to any garden. It thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, requiring little water once established. This makes it a perfect choice for those looking to reduce water usage.

Grevillea

Grevillea offers a stunning display of flowers that attract birds and pollinators. With a variety of shapes and sizes available, Grevilleas are versatile and can suit any garden design. These hardy plants require minimal pruning and are drought-resistant.

grevillea flowers

Opt for Drought-Tolerant Varieties

Drought-tolerant plants are ideal for Canberra's dry climate. These plants require less water, making them perfect for sustainable gardening practices. Incorporating drought-tolerant varieties helps conserve water and reduces the need for constant maintenance.

Lavender

Lavender is not only beautiful but also incredibly easy to care for. Its fragrant blooms add a delightful scent to the garden, and it thrives in sunny spots with well-drained soil. Regular pruning after flowering is all that's needed to keep it looking its best.

Succulents

Succulents are renowned for their ability to store water, making them low-maintenance stars in any garden. They come in an array of shapes, colors, and sizes, allowing for creative landscaping opportunities. Simply ensure they have good drainage and minimal watering.

succulent garden

Incorporate Hardy Shrubs

Hardy shrubs are a gardener's friend when it comes to low-maintenance landscaping. They provide structure and color throughout the year with minimal care requirements.

Pittosporum

Pittosporum is a versatile shrub that can be used as a hedge or standalone feature. It is tolerant of both sun and shade and requires little more than occasional pruning to maintain its shape. Its glossy leaves add a touch of elegance to any outdoor space.

Westringia

Also known as Coastal Rosemary, Westringia is perfect for Canberra gardens due to its hardiness and low water needs. This shrub offers year-round greenery with lavender-like flowers that appear sporadically. It's an excellent choice for borders or as a feature plant.

By selecting plants that are suited to the local climate and require minimal care, you can create a stunning garden that enhances your home without becoming a burden. Whether you opt for native species or drought-tolerant favorites, there are plenty of options to suit your style and space.