Mexican heather prefers well drained soil with even moisture and full sun. Another great annual plant for hot, dry locations in the old-fashioned plant nasturtium, Tropaeolum majus . This is a plant many people remember fondly growing in their grandparents garden. Nasturtium is a vining plant that can be used as a ground cover or encouraged to cover a trellis or fence. The plant's leaves are nearly round and light green, and some cultivars like 'Alaska' have variegated foliage to add even more interest.
Many cultivars have flowers in a range of color, while others have flowers in a single color.
Nasturtium prefers well drained, low fertility soil with full sun. Hyacinth bean or Dolichos lablab, is another great, attractive vine for hot, dry areas. The vines can grow up to 30 feet long, but are usually around 15 feet. The vines can be used as a ground cover or used to cover a trellis or fence. The leaves have three leaflets that are broadly oval, coming to a point at the tip.