The Best Drought-Tolerant Plants for Late Summer in Atlanta

In Atlanta’s hot, humid climate, late summer can be especially tough on landscapes. Intense sun, irregular rainfall, and prolonged heat waves can stress even the most beautiful yards—unless they’re designed with resilience in mind. That’s where drought-tolerant plants come in.

At Outdoor Makeover, we believe in creating landscapes that are not only stunning but sustainable. Our approach combines artistry with smart horticultural planning—ensuring that every outdoor space is built to thrive through all of Georgia’s seasons, especially late summer. Here’s our curated list of the best drought-tolerant plants that deliver beauty, texture, and structure while standing up to Atlanta’s heat.

Why Choose Drought-Tolerant Landscaping?

Incorporating drought-resistant plants into your outdoor design is about more than saving water—it’s about creating a low-maintenance, high-impact landscape that stays vibrant with less effort. These plants are:

• Ideal for Atlanta’s USDA zones (7b–8a)
• Resistant to heat and inconsistent rainfall
• Perfect for luxury landscapes that require longevity and performance

1. Muhly Grass (Muhlenbergia capillaris)

A favorite in high-end landscapes, this ornamental grass is as tough as it is elegant. With soft, pink plumes that bloom in late summer and early fall, it adds texture and movement to beds and borders.

• Design Tip: Use in clusters for dramatic color impact.
• Bonus: Extremely low-maintenance and deer-resistant.

2. Russian Sage (Perovskia atriplicifolia)

This drought-hardy perennial thrives in full sun and poor soil, making it ideal for Atlanta landscapes. Its silver foliage and violet-blue flowers bring a touch of softness to structured garden designs.

• Best For: Transitional zones and pollinator gardens.
• Design Pairing: Looks stunning against stone retaining walls or near hardscape paths.

3. Yarrow (Achillea millefolium)

Yarrow thrives on heat and neglect—perfect for Georgia’s late summer. Its flat, clustered blooms come in a variety of colors and attract butterflies while resisting deer and drought.

• Functional Bonus: Excellent for erosion control on slopes.
• Design Tip: Use in naturalized plantings or wildflower borders.

4. Coneflower (Echinacea purpurea)

A staple in Atlanta-area gardens, coneflowers deliver bold color with very little water. Their strong upright form and long bloom season make them a favorite for both homeowners and pollinators.

• Best Use: Centerpieces in mixed perennial beds.
• Color Palette: Purple, white, and increasingly, peach and coral hybrids.

5. Lantana (Lantana camara)

Lantana is heat-loving, colorful, and nearly indestructible. It produces clusters of bright flowers from late spring into fall and performs beautifully in both containers and beds.

• Homeowner Bonus: Attracts hummingbirds and butterflies.
• Maintenance Note: Prune lightly to encourage reblooming.

6. Sedum (Sedum spp.)

Also known as stonecrop, sedums are succulent-like perennials that hold water in their fleshy leaves—making them ultra-drought-resistant. They’re ideal for modern landscapes and rooftop gardens.

• Design Application: Perfect for borders, edging, or container gardens.
• Texture Value: Their clean, architectural look complements hardscaping beautifully.

7. Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)

This culinary favorite does double duty as an ornamental shrub. In Atlanta, it thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, adding fragrance, structure, and function to garden beds and kitchen gardens.

• Versatility: Great for hedging, borders, or raised beds.
• Design Pairing: Combines well with lavender and other Mediterranean plants.

8. Black-Eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta)

With its golden-yellow petals and dark centers, Black-Eyed Susan brings warmth and vibrancy to any landscape. It’s tough, drought-resistant, and loves Georgia sunshine.

• Landscape Value: Great for naturalistic plantings or children’s garden zones.
• Seasonal Bonus: Blooms extend into fall, offering late-season color.

Build a Sustainable, Luxury Landscape with Outdoor Makeover

Choosing the right drought-tolerant plants doesn’t mean sacrificing beauty—it means building a smarter landscape. At Outdoor Makeover, we specialize in transforming Atlanta yards into personalized sanctuaries that are both elegant and eco-conscious.

Our expert designers:

• Integrate native and drought-tolerant species that thrive in Atlanta’s climate
• Create layered planting designs for color, texture, and seasonal interest
• Ensure proper grading, drainage, and irrigation to reduce water waste
• Deliver high-touch, white-glove service from concept to completion

Let’s Design a Yard That Thrives—Even in the Heat

Whether you’re planning a full backyard transformation or simply want to refresh your summer garden beds, our team is here to help. From hardscape integration to plant selection, we design with intention, resilience, and beauty in mind.

📞 Call Outdoor Makeover at 404-301-8340 or
💻 Contact us online to schedule your personalized design consultation.

Let’s make your outdoor space both stunning and sustainable—crafted for Atlanta’s climate and your lifestyle.

Design Consultation, Drought-Tolerant Landscaping, Irrigation System, Outdoor Living Spaces