Wildlife requires four basic components for survival: food, water, shelter and areas for reproduction. To attract wildlife to your xeriscape, use plants that provide cover.

over and protection from the elements, while supplying food in the form of flowers, fruits, seeds and nuts. Place fresh water in a shallow dish for bathing and drinking. Rock, log or brush piles provide cover for reptiles, ground squirrels, birds and insects. Reproductive areas may be open areas for courtship activities, a mature tree with a nesting box, or a birdhouse. Remember, never feed wildlife people food; they may become dependent on these unnatural food sources, which will be detrimental to them in the long run.

Plants provide for many of the basic needs of wildlife. Trees, shrubs and groundcovers provide a variety of foods such as seed, fruit and nectar. Insects attracted by various plants also become food for birds and reptiles. Wildlife also seeks the shelter that many plants render. Plants afford protection from predators and the elements and provide nesting sites for birds.

The following lists of plants may prove beneficial to you in designing your xeriscape garden with wildlife in mind.

Nature and Water-Efficient Plants and Trees for Wildlife

Grasses

Deciduous Trees

Evergreen Trees

Trees Shrubs

Groundcover Vines

Fruit and Nut Plants