The Xeric Garden

About

The Xeric Garden is a beautifully curated landscape, designed by homeowners Ryan Harter and Allison Copeland on a 1/3-acre property in Castle Rock, CO, at 6,400 feet elevation. Their vision is to inspire local residents by demonstrating the possibilities of creating a sustainable, xeriscaped landscape instead of the typical lawn. The transformation began in 2021 with the backyard, a multi-terraced rock garden showcasing a wide variety of drought-tolerant plants. Thoughtfully placed crevice gardens and meandering pathways highlight the natural beauty and practicality of xeric landscaping. One of the garden’s most striking features is a 60-foot staircase, flanked by Delosperma (ice plants), which radiate vibrant color in early summer. The backyard is composed of several distinct garden areas, ranging from unwatered zones to low irrigation spaces, along with a drought-tolerant lawn planted with sheep fescue, native grasses, and wildflowers. Beneath both the back and front lawns lies a hidden treasure, a Stinzenplanten garden featuring crocuses, wild tulips, and other bulbs, adding seasonal charm. In spring 2024, the front yard was transformed to reflect the same sustainable vision. It features two crevice gardens and a drought-tolerant fine fescue lawn, and is filled with a diverse collection of plants. Altogether, The Xeric Garden showcases more than 100 species and 300-400 plant varieties, making it a remarkable example of biodiversity and ecological resilience in a dry, high-altitude environment. This garden is truly a must-see for anyone interested in sustainable landscaping.

This garden’s estimated size is 1/3 acre.

2025 Open Day: Saturday, June 28 

Hours: 10-12 [SOLD OUT], 12-2, 2-4 [SOLD OUT]