Which of the following is considered a xeriscaping plant?

• A. Pinon Pine
• B. Dogwood
• C. Ponderosa Pine
• D. White Fir

Answer: (A)

Xeriscaping focuses on reducing irrigation by using plants that thrive with little water. A xeriscaping plant is one that can grow well with minimal supplemental irrigation once established. The Pinon Pine fits this idea best because it is native to dry, arid regions and is well adapted to drought, needing only light irrigation after it’s established. It also tolerates poor soils and full sun, which are common in water-saving landscapes.

In contrast, Dogwood generally requires consistent moisture and cooler, more shaded conditions, making it less suitable for low-water designs. Ponderosa Pine can tolerate drought to some extent but isn’t as emblematic of xeriscaping as Pinon Pine and may benefit from occasional watering in landscaping settings. White Fir prefers moister environments and cooler climates, so it isn’t considered drought-tolerant for xeriscaping purposes.