xeriscape

noun, often capitalized xeri·scape \ ˈzir-ə-ˌskāp , ˈzer- \

Updated on: 30 Apr 2018

Definition of xeriscape

: a landscaping method developed especially for arid and semiarid climates that utilizes water-conserving techniques (such as the use of drought-tolerant plants, mulch, and efficient irrigation)

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Recent Examples of xeriscape from the Web

Like Boules, Manzanilla also has a La Contra wine shop in its xeriscape courtyard, albeit a miniature version, no larger than a tool shed.

— peter cheng, Los Angeles Magazine, "Mexican-Food Expert Bill Esparza Has Curated Cruise Excursions That Are a Gastronome’s Dream," 23 Apr. 2018
In the xeriscape yard, a saltwater swimming pool and outdoor shower ensure the best of desert living, while the property’s southern site offers panoramic mountain views.

— lauren ro, Curbed, "Midcentury meets contemporary design in Palm Springs for $2.65M," 12 Apr. 2018
Our extensive succulent and xeriscape area never needs watering, but flowers through the year.

— lisa deaderick, sandiegouniontribune.com, "Committed to teaching and gardening," 14 Jan. 2018
Figs require generous amounts of water for maximum production but can survive in a xeriscape landscape.

— calvin finch, San Antonio Express-News, "4 easy-grow fruit trees perfect for San Antonio," 2 Feb. 2018
Helix is also one of several partners that help fund The Water Conservation Garden, a xeriscape demonstration garden adjacent to Cuyamaca College that displays drought-tolerant landscaping and offers water-saving ideas.

— karen pearlman, sandiegouniontribune.com, "Helix Water District checks in with customers," 29 Jan. 2018
Bob Booth Special to the Star-Telegram Diane Fuhrmeister pulls Henbit weeds from the xeriscape at Bear Creek Park.

— patsy miller photos by bob booth, star-telegram, "How does your garden grow?," 26 Apr. 2017
New communities generally use drought-tolerant landscaping, and lawns are giving way to low-water-use xeriscapes.

— pat setter, sandiegouniontribune.com, "California's new-home energy goal by 2020 is within reach," 8 July 2017
Bob Booth Special to the Star-Telegram Joan Thuener and Sarah Harbaugh finish up their work at the xeriscape at Bear Creek Park.

— patsy miller photos by bob booth, star-telegram, "How does your garden grow?," 26 Apr. 2017

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'xeriscape.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Did You Know?

Xēros is the Greek word for "dry" that is the base for a handful of English words related to mainly dry printing ("xerography") and dry, or xerophilous, habitats and their plants. In the early 1980s, the Greek adjective was used to name a type of landscaping practiced primarily in the arid western regions of the United States. (The Water Department of Denver, Colorado, is credited with the word's coinage.) "Xeriscape," as it is called, uses plants that require little water and techniques that efficiently use water and reduce evaporation.