Drought-Tolerant Trees for a Resilient Landscape

We’ve all experienced the challenge of the drought this year following possibly one of the wettest spring and summers in 2024 and as climate patterns shift and summers grow hotter, we need to try and create more resilient spaces that can thrive with minimal water. Drought-tolerant tree species are perfect as they not only conserve precious resources but also offer beauty, shade and habitat for wildlife. The team at Frank P Matthews have picked our five favourite drought-tolerant trees that combine resilience with ornamental beauty, but just remember, even drought-tolerant trees need consistent watering until they’re fully established.

Quercus ilex (Holm Oak)

This evergreen oak from the Mediterranean is a true champion of dry conditions. Its leathery, dark-green leaves reduce water loss, while its deep root system allows it to withstand prolonged drought. Holm Oak’s dense canopy offers year-round screening and wind protection, making it both practical and attractive.

Pyrus ‘Chanticleer’ (Ornamental Pear)

Renowned for its upright form, ‘Chanticleer’ is perfect for smaller gardens or narrow spaces.
In spring it bursts into clouds of white blossoms, followed by glossy foliage that turns vivid shades of red and purple in autumn. It is hardy and low-maintenance, looks amazing all year-round and it’s particularly well-suited to urban environments where water may be limited.

Gleditsia triacanthos ‘Sunburst’ (Honey Locust)

‘Sunburst’ brightens landscapes with its golden spring foliage, which softens to green in summer and turns yellow again in autumn. Its fern-like leaves cast dappled shade, ideal for underplanting [link to underplanting article]. This adaptable tree tolerates poor soils and dry conditions with ease. 

Robinia pseudoacacia ‘Pink Cascade’

For a splash of summer colour, ‘Pink Cascade’ is unmatched. It produces fragrant, pink, pea-like flower cascades that attract bees and pollinators. Its light, feathery foliage and elegant form make it a beautiful addition to any garden and its drought tolerance ensures it thrives even in harsh conditions. This tree is proof that functional and resilience is indeed beautiful. 

Koelreuteria paniculata ‘Coral Sun’ (Golden Rain Tree)

A four-season beauty, ‘Coral Sun’ begins the year with coral-pink shoots, shifts to bright yellow blooms in summer and develops amazing papery seed pods into autumn. This hardy tree is suited to heat and low-water scenarios, offering ornamental interest year-round.

The Crucial Establishment Phase

This is so important we’re mentioning it twice in this article. Drought-tolerant trees require consistent watering during their establishment phase, which can last up to two years, especially for newly planted trees with shallow root systems. Regular watering supports root development, reduces transplant shock, and builds long-term resilience.

A Solution for Smart, Efficient Watering – The Tree Watering Bag

To help with the watering routine and maximise efficiency, Frank P Matthews Trees has a fantastic solution in the form of the ‘Watering Bag’;

Holds up to 60 L of water and releases it slowly over 2–6 hours, saturating the root ball deeply and evenly 

Minimises waste as there is no runoff or surface evaporation, just targeted hydration where the roots need it 

Easy to use as you simply zip the bag around the tree trunk and fill with a hose

Reusable material so you can use it on multiple new trees through the season. 

While watering bags are not a substitute for deliberate upkeep, they make it easier to ensure newly planted trees receive the moisture they need especially during hot or dry spells and definitely if you’re planning to be away for a long length of time. Choosing drought-tolerant trees doesn’t mean skipping the basics. During establishment, regular and deep watering, whether by hand or using tools like a watering bag, can make all the difference. Combining resilient tree varieties with smart watering strategies helps create a landscape that not only survives but thrives, conserving water while supporting biodiversity.