Xeriscapes are both popular and sensible in arid climates because they are landscapes or gardens that require little to no precipitation!
There are many beautiful and creative examples of xeriscapes, and as you can see, a xeriscape does not necessarily mean that you have to give up a garden with some color. Stones and accent pieces can augment a xeriscape that features local cacti and succulents. I picked this word because it's been a bit dreary here lately and I came across some old photos of a trip to New Mexico and felt like using a desert-type word!
Hope things brighten up all around,
–C
