South California has found itself in the midst of a 20+ year drought, and there are no clear signs this will end any time soon. When combined with climate change, that makes it all the more important to look at planting trees that are drought resistant and can thrive in environments with low amounts of water.

The good news is there are many trees that can do just that, and the following are five of the best drought resistant trees that can thrive in southern California and our quite common for tree service in Laguna Beach, CA to consult with.
1. Australian Willow
First up is the Australian Willow. The Australian willow is a deciduous tree that can grow to be between 15 and 25 feet tall. It is native to Australia, but has been introduced to many other parts of the world, including southern California.
Generally, trees that thrive in many of Australia’s arid regions adapts very well to similar areas in other parts of the world and the Australian Willow is no exception.
2. Purple Leaf Acacia
Another great drought resistant tree for southern California is the Purple-Leaf Acacia. The Purple-Leaf Acacia is native to Mexico and Central America, but has been introduced to many other parts of the world, including southern California. It is a small to medium sized tree that typically grows to be between 10 and 20 feet tall. It has a dense canopy which makes it good for shade and beautiful purple leaves, making it a great addition to any landscape.
The Purple-Leaf Acacia is also very drought resistant and can tolerate long periods of drought once it is established.
3. Blue Leaf Wattle
Next on the list is the Blue Leaf Wattle. The Blue Leaf Wattle is another tree that is native to Australia, but has been introduced to many other parts of the world, including southern California. It is a small to medium sized tree that typically grows to be between 10 and 20 feet tall. It has a dense canopy and beautiful blue leaves, making it a great addition to any landscape and although it needs some careful attention early on in its growth, once it gets its roots established it is a very drought-resistant choice that can thrive even with the limited rainfall in Southern California.
4. Flame Tree
Another great drought resistant tree for southern California is the Flame Tree. Aside from the excellent attention-drawing name, the Flame Tree is yet another native to Australia, and gets its name from the extremely bright red leaves when blooming that stick out no matter where you are.
These popular transplants to Orange County and other areas in southern California is a medium-sized tree that can reach heights of between 20 and 30 feet tall. Even beyond the leaves, this tree has beautiful reddish-orange flowers that bloom in the spring and summer. It is also very drought resistant and can tolerate long periods with an absolute minimum of water or moisture and still survive handily.
5. California Walnut
Last on the list is the California Walnut. The California Walnut is native to the western United States and this native tree has continued to thrive despite the twin challenges of climate change and decades of drought. This is the largest tree on the list and can grow to be between 40 and 60 feet tall. It has a dense canopy means wonderful shade, not to mention the fact walnuts are popular for various baking and cooking applications.
This is a tree native to dry California weather that has no issue with thriving.
These are just five of the best drought resistant trees that can thrive in southern California. There are many other great options out there, so be sure to do your research and find the best tree service in Laguna Beach, CA for your specific needs. With a little planning and care, you can have a beautiful, drought resistant landscape that will withstand the test of time.