Delhi heatwave is frying balcony plants: These Indian plants actually survive 45°C

Balcony plants in many parts of North India are facing a tough time coping with the rising temperature levels in cities such as Delhi. Due to extreme heat, metal railings tend to become extremely hot, and soil dries up fast. Flowering plants wilt quickly due to excessive heat during heatwaves. Not all plants die due to these environmental factors. Some plants from the Indian subcontinent are naturally heat-resistant and able to survive in intense heat and sunlight. These plants do not require much care and maintenance and continue to grow well during difficult summer periods. Below are six heat-resistant Indian plants suitable for balcony gardens during summer.

Bougainvillea is one of the toughest flowering plants commonly used in India during summer. The flower blooms beautifully with pink, orange, purple, and white-colored bracts and thrives in direct sunlight and high temperatures. Excessive watering poses a greater risk to this plant than extreme heat. It grows well in balcony pots, terrace railings, and even boundary walls. It becomes the most beautiful ornament in Delhi during its extreme summer seasons.

This succulent has a natural resistance to dryness and retains water within its leaves, allowing the plant to withstand high-temperature conditions. This low-maintenance plant can easily survive direct sun exposure for long hours. Apart from surviving heatwaves, aloe vera is commonly used for skincare and medicinal purposes. If you find it hard keeping your balcony plants alive during summer, then aloe vera should definitely work for you.

It is common for hibiscus flowers to bloom across Indian cities as they adapt to heat and sunshine. If kept hydrated, hibiscus continues to bloom throughout the year. In addition, they attract butterflies and other pollinators due to their big, colorful flowers. Unlike many other flowers that wilt due to heat, hibiscus is quite hardy and prefers moist conditions. Thus, it should be considered by those having a hard time with summer gardening.

The snake plant is a popular option among urban gardeners due to its remarkable tolerance to droughts, neglect, and different climate conditions. Due to its erect, sword-shaped leaves, this plant loses very little moisture and survives well during heatwaves. They are known for being versatile and can grow either indoors or outdoors. As such, they can be great for apartments with balconies getting plenty of sunshine.

The jade plant is another example of a heat-resistant succulent that can survive India's summers. Its leaves are very thick and store water in large quantities, thus helping this plant withstand the summer heat and even some cases of neglect in watering. Despite growing slowly, it requires little maintenance once planted. Being relatively small, this plant suits an apartment well where water is scarce.

Portulaca, also called moss rose, is a plant famous for surviving in the extreme heat of summer. Unlike many other flowers that wilt under direct sunlight, portulaca blossoms brightly at the height of the day. Being succulent, this plant is drought-resistant. It is available in several shades of pink, yellow, orange, red, and white. Thus, it adds a lot of color to balconies.

This article is for general informational and gardening awareness purposes only. Plant survival during extreme heatwaves may vary depending on local climate, sunlight exposure, watering practices, soil quality, and balcony conditions. While these plants are generally considered heat-tolerant in Indian conditions, prolonged exposure to severe temperatures without proper care may still damage them. Readers are advised to consult local nurseries, horticulture experts, or gardening professionals for plant care guidance suitable for their specific region and environment.