We never know what the weather might throw at us here in the UK but there is no doubt that over the last 50 years, summers have got generally warmer. That has meant they are drier too - and that has an impact on our plants.
Many will need plenty of watering but there are some shrubs that positively thrive in drought conditions and will continue quite happily no matter how dry it gets!
Abelia grandiflora ****
Semi-evergreen rounded shrub. Pink-flushed fragrant flowers from June. Height: 3m (10ft) Spread: 4m (13ft). Tip: Site in shelter in cold districts.
Tel: 01344 578111
Deciduous shrub, with glossy green leaves. Pale blue flowers in August. Height/Spread: 1.5m (5ft). Tip: Grow against a sunny wall in cold areas.
Tel: 01209 860316
Hebe albicans ****
Rounded evergreen shrub. Glossy grey-green leaves. White flowers in summer. Height: 0.6m (24in). Spread: 0.9m (36in). Tip: Good for windy, coastal sites.
Tel:01782 502741
Spreading dark-leaved shrub with bicoloured scented flowers adored by insects. Height/Spread: 2.4m (8ft). Tip: Prune off spent flowers to keep blooms coming.
Tel: 01344 578111
Dense evergreen bold-leaved shrub. White flowers and orange fruit from September. Height/Spread: 3m (10ft). Tip: Tolerant of chalky soils as well as acid.
Tel: 01209 860316