Suitable Replacement For Gardenia In Tucson (zone 9)

Question

We planted a gardenia in a large clay planter (7-8 gls). It had sunlight in the morning but was shaded in the afternoon. This last winter in southern Arizona (Tucson area) was especially long and had several cold spells with snow on the ground four times. The temperature will have affected the plant because it dies despite my best efforts. I don’t want to go through that experience again. So, now I am looking for a suitable plant and that corner outside the house but inside a porch. The new plant should be somewhat drought resistant because I don’t have the time to water it often (once a week would be OK). The gardenia was just fickle as far as watering is concerned. If you have a suggestion, please let me know. Looking forward to hearing from you, cordially.

Answer 1

If you don't want a lot of watering chores you might want to consider succulents.

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/cacti-succulents/scgen/bright-bold-succulents.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/cacti-succulents/scgen/succulent-container-ideas.htm