Drought Tolerance
/DROUT TOL-er-unss/🦋 Ecology● Basic
Also known as: drought tolerant, drought resistant, water-wise
The capacity of a plant to withstand prolonged dry conditions without significant damage. Drought-tolerant plants employ various strategies: deep root systems, reduced leaf area, waxy cuticles, succulent water storage, leaf rolling, dormancy during dry periods, and silver or hairy leaf surfaces that reflect light. Drought tolerance is increasingly important in garden design as water conservation becomes a priority.
Etymology
Old English drūgath (dryness) + Latin tolerantia (endurance)
Example
“Once established, lavender is remarkably drought tolerant and actually performs poorly in consistently moist soil.”