The plants often are indigenous to Southern Europe, alpine regions, or South Africa. Raising or berming the plantings promotes good drainage. Rocks or boulders are an important feature and provide ideal habitats for alpine plants. The Mid-Columbia can be very suited to this style of gardening, especially toward the east end of the Gorge.

The plants themselves possess hairy or leathery, waxy leaves to protect them from desiccation. Some of these plants die back to the ground by early or mid summer, to underground bulbs or tubers. Their foliage is often evergreen or evergray, and frequently aromatic. Many plants from dry habitats flower in spring or early summer, providing a colorful display early in the season. Ornamental grasses are quite drought-tolerant, and make suitable companion plants in dry gardens, adding fall and early winter interest. Hardy cultivars of Agastache, Lavender, Oregano, Penstemon, Russian Sage, Creeping Thyme and Rosemary are plants of the dry garden, and thrive in the Mid-Columbia, provided that they are grown in well-drained soil. Most of these plants display flowers attractive to hummingbirds.

Lawn is used sparingly, and if so, grass cultivars with low water needs are chosen. The plants in Xeriscapes and dry gardens are drought-tolerant once established, usually two years after planting. Subsequent summer watering is infrequent, but thorough. Winter wetness can be detrimental, therefore good drainage is essential, and fertilizer should be used in moderation. Pea gravel can be used as mulch, but it can be difficult to keep free of soil and debris.

Also called dry stream beds. Control the flow of rainwater or excess water across the landscape or other areas. They consist of a shallow swale or trench lined with stone substantial enough to withstand a serious downpour. Larger boulders are set along the sides to resemble a gently meandering waterway or stream. Dry creek beds are appealing, ornamental features if designed to look natural, and blend with the surrounding plantings. Rock gardens and Xeriscapes complement dry creek beds. Streamside shrubs may be planted along larger features. Dry creek beds retain water during rain events and release it slowly into lower-lying areas or drain tile, reducing erosion and easing strain on storm water drains. They do not contain water the majority of the time.