The shimmering expanse of your pool beckons you to relax and enjoy the outdoors. But what about the landscape surrounding your aquatic oasis? Lush greenery and vibrant blooms can transform your pool area into a tropical paradise. However, choosing the right plants is crucial, as some species may not thrive in the unique conditions around a pool.
Below you’ll find the best plants for around the pool, considering factors such as sun exposure, moisture levels, and chlorine tolerance. Dive in and discover the perfect flora to enhance your poolside haven!
Rose Of Sharon, Hibiscus Syriacus
This stunning shrub boasts an abundance of large, showy flowers in vibrant hues of pink, purple, and white. Rose of Sharon thrives in full sun to partial shade and tolerates the occasional splash of pool water. Its drought tolerance makes it a low-maintenance option, perfect for busy poolside enthusiasts.
Angel’s Trumpet, Brugmansia Species
For an exotic touch, consider the Angel’s Trumpet. This captivating plant produces large, trumpet-shaped flowers that release a sweet, intoxicating fragrance in the evening. While Angel’s Trumpet prefers full sun, it can tolerate partial shade. However, it’s important to note that all parts of this plant are poisonous, so exercise caution if you have pets or small children.
Star Jasmine, Trachelospermum Jasminoides
This evergreen vine is a favorite for poolside planting due to its lush foliage and fragrant white flowers. Star Jasmine thrives in full sun to partial shade and can tolerate moderate drought conditions. Its climbing habit makes it ideal for adding privacy to your pool area or creating a natural screen.
Limelight Hydrangea, Hydrangea Paniculata
Limelight Hydrangea (Buy Online)
This stunning hydrangea variety produces large, cone-shaped flower clusters in shades of white, pink, and green. Limelight Hydrangea prefers full sun to partial shade and tolerates moist soil conditions. Its long blooming period and adaptability make it a versatile choice for poolside gardens.
Fountain Grass, Pennisetum Alopecuroides
Add a touch of movement and texture with Fountain Grass. This ornamental grass produces feathery plumes that sway gracefully in the breeze. Fountain Grass thrives in full sun and can tolerate drought conditions. Its low-maintenance nature and striking appearance make it a popular choice for poolside landscaping.
Daylily, Hemerocallis Species
These versatile plants offer a wide variety of colors, shapes, and sizes, making them a popular choice for poolside gardens. Daylilies thrive in full sun to partial shade and tolerate a range of soil conditions. Their low-maintenance nature and long blooming period make them ideal for busy pool owners.
Echeveria (Echeveria)
These succulents are perfect for adding a touch of drought-tolerant beauty to your pool area. Echeveria come in a variety of shapes and colors, from rosettes to star-shaped formations. They prefer full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. Their low water needs and striking appearance make them a popular choice for poolside containers or rock gardens.
Grapevine (Vitis vinifera)
If you’re looking for a plant that provides both shade and privacy, consider the Grapevine. This vigorous vine produces lush foliage and sweet, juicy grapes. Grapevines thrive in full sun and well-drained soil. However, they require regular pruning to control their growth.
Rosemary (Salvia rosmarinus)
This aromatic herb not only adds a touch of fragrance to your pool area but also repels mosquitoes. Rosemary thrives in full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. Its drought tolerance and low-maintenance nature make it an ideal poolside companion.
Hosta (Hosta)
These shade-loving plants are perfect for adding a touch of coolness to your pool area. Hostas come in a variety of sizes and colors, with foliage ranging from chartreuse to deep green. They prefer partial to full shade and moist soil. Their low-maintenance nature and ability to thrive in shady conditions make them a popular choice for poolside borders or under trees.
Foxtail Agave (Agave attenuata)
This striking succulent adds a touch of desert elegance to your pool area. Foxtail Agave features sword-shaped leaves with sharp points and a dramatic, central spike. It thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. Its drought tolerance and low-maintenance nature make it an ideal choice for busy pool owners.
Staghorn Fern (Platycerium bifurcatum)
Bring a touch of the tropics to your poolside with the Staghorn Fern. This unique fern produces two types of fronds: broad, shield-shaped fronds that resemble stag horns and fertile fronds that hang down like long, green ribbons. Staghorn Ferns prefer partial to full shade and moist, well-draining soil. They are often grown mounted on plaques or in hanging baskets.
Geranium (Pelargonium)
These cheerful plants offer a wide variety of colors and bloom forms, making them a popular choice for poolside gardens. Geraniums thrive in full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. Their low-maintenance nature and long blooming period make them ideal for adding bursts of color to your pool area.
Honeysuckle (Lonicera sempervirens)
This twining vine produces fragrant, trumpet-shaped flowers in shades of white, yellow, and pink. Honeysuckle thrives in full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. It can be grown as a groundcover, trained to climb a trellis, or allowed to spill over walls for a cascading effect.
Bougainvillea (Bougainvillea spectabilis)
This tropical vine is known for its vibrant, papery bracts that come in a range of colors, including magenta, purple, orange, and white. Bougainvillea thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. It can be grown as a groundcover, trained to climb a trellis, or pruned into a small tree.
Hardy Banana, Musa Basjoo
Add a touch of the exotic with the Hardy Banana. This cold-tolerant banana produces large, tropical leaves and can even produce edible bananas in warm climates. Hardy Banana thrives in full sun to partial shade and moist, well-drained soil. Its fast growth rate and striking appearance make it a statement piece for poolside gardens.
Japanese Maple, Acer Palmatum
For a touch of elegance and tranquility, consider the Japanese Maple. This deciduous tree features delicate, palmate leaves that turn brilliant shades of red, orange, and yellow in the fall. Japanese Maples prefer partial to full shade and moist, well-drained soil. Their graceful form and stunning foliage make them a focal point for any poolside landscape.
Best Container Plants for the Pool Deck
While in-ground planting offers a lush backdrop for your pool, container plants add versatility and flexibility to your poolside design. They allow you to experiment with different colors, textures, and heights, creating a dynamic and personalized oasis. Here are some of the best container plants for the pool deck:
Sago Palm, Cycas Revoluta
This prehistoric-looking plant adds a touch of drama to your pool deck with its stiff, feathery fronds and spiny trunk. Sago Palms thrive in full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. Their drought tolerance and low-maintenance nature make them ideal for busy pool owners.
Bird Of Paradise, Strelitzia
This exotic plant produces stunning, bird-shaped flowers in vibrant orange and blue hues. Bird of Paradise thrives in full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. Its striking blooms and tropical flair make it a showstopper for poolside containers.
Mediterranean Fan Palm, Chamaerops Humilis
This compact palm tree is perfect for adding a touch of Mediterranean elegance to your pool deck. Mediterranean Fan Palms thrive in full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. Their slow growth rate and low-maintenance nature make them a convenient choice for container planting.
Smooth Prickly Pear, Opuntia Ellisiana
This drought-tolerant succulent features flat, paddle-shaped pads with soft spines. Smooth Prickly Pear thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. Its unique appearance and low water needs make it a popular choice for poolside containers.
Million Bells, Calibrachoa
These trailing plants produce a profusion of small, bell-shaped flowers in a wide range of colors, including pink, purple, yellow, and white. Million Bells thrive in full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. Their long blooming period and cascading habit make them ideal for adding pops of color and texture to poolside containers.
Sweet Potato Vine, Ipomea Batatas
This trailing vine produces lush, heart-shaped foliage in various shades of green, purple, and chartreuse. Sweet Potato Vine thrives in full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. Its vigorous growth and cascading habit make it perfect for adding a touch of tropical flair to hanging baskets or spilling over container edges.
Hens and Chicks
These charming succulents form rosettes of fleshy leaves with contrasting colors, often green and pink or green and red. Hens and Chicks thrive in full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. Their low-maintenance nature and unique appearance make them a popular choice for small containers or rock gardens.
Canna Lily
This tropical plant produces large, showy flowers in vibrant shades of orange, yellow, pink, and red. Canna Lilies thrive in full sun and moist, well-drained soil. Their bold foliage and dramatic blooms make them a statement piece for poolside containers.
Lantana
These cheerful plants produce clusters of small, brightly colored flowers in a range of hues, including yellow, orange, pink, and purple. Lantana thrives in full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. Their long blooming period and heat tolerance make them ideal for adding continuous color to your poolside oasis.
Best Plants for Specific Poolside Needs
Best Pool Plant for Privacy: Arborvitae
Arborvitae (Thuja spp.) is a genus of evergreen trees and shrubs that offer dense foliage and fast growth, making them ideal for creating privacy screens around your pool area. Some popular Arborvitae varieties for poolside planting include:
American Pillar Arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis ‘American Pillar’): This narrow, columnar variety can reach heights of up to 20 feet, providing a tall and dense privacy screen.
Green Giant Arborvitae (Thuja standishii x plicata ‘Green Giant’): This fast-growing variety can reach heights of up to 60 feet, creating an impressive privacy wall.
Emerald Green Arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis ‘Emerald Green’): This compact variety grows to a height of 12-15 feet, making it a good choice for smaller spaces.
Best Pool Plant for a Trellis: Clematis
Clematis (Clematis spp.) is a genus of flowering vines that produce stunning blooms in a variety of colors, shapes, and sizes. They are perfect for adding vertical interest and privacy to your pool area when grown on a trellis or fence. Some popular Clematis varieties for poolside planting include:
Jackmanii Clematis (Clematis x jackmanii): This vigorous climber produces large, deep purple flowers with prominent stamens.
Nelly Moser Clematis (Clematis x Nelly Moser): This stunning variety features large, pink flowers with a central stripe of magenta.
Sweet Autumn Clematis (Clematis terniflora): This late-blooming variety produces fragrant, white flowers with a hint of pink.
Best Pool Plant for a Tropical Look: Elephant Ear
Elephant Ear (Colocasia esculenta) is a tropical plant that features large, heart-shaped leaves that can grow up to 3 feet long. They add a touch of lushness and exoticism to your pool area, creating a tropical oasis. Some popular Elephant Ear varieties for poolside planting include:
Black Magic Elephant Ear (Colocasia esculenta ‘Black Magic’): This dramatic variety features deep purple-black leaves with prominent veins.
Illustris Elephant Ear (Colocasia esculenta ‘Illustris’): This striking variety features large, green leaves with silver veins.
Pink China Elephant Ear (Colocasia esculenta ‘Pink China’): This unique variety features pink stems and undersides of the leaves.
Best Pool Plant for Fragrance: Russian Sage
Russian Sage (Perovskia atriplicifolia) is a herbaceous perennial that produces fragrant, blue-purple flower spikes in late summer and fall. The leaves also release a pleasant aroma when crushed, adding an extra sensory element to your poolside experience. Russian Sage thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, making it a low-maintenance option for poolside gardens.
Conclusion: Creating Your Perfect Poolside Oasis
With careful planning and selection, you can transform your pool area into a vibrant and inviting oasis that reflects your personal style and preferences. By considering the specific needs of your poolside environment, such as sunlight, water, and maintenance requirements, you can choose plants that thrive in your space and enhance its beauty.
In addition to the plants mentioned in this guide, numerous other options can add color, texture, and interest to your poolside paradise. Consider incorporating flowering shrubs like Butterfly Bush, Crepe Myrtle, or Hibiscus for a burst of color. Add height and drama with architectural plants like Yucca, Bamboo, or Ornamental Grasses. For a touch of whimsy, include playful elements like Birdhouses, Wind Chimes, or Colorful Pillows.
Here are some additional tips for creating the perfect poolside oasis:
Create a focal point: A focal point draws the eye and anchors the space. This could be a dramatic plant, a sculpture, a fire pit, or even a water feature.
Use repetition: Repeating elements, such as plants, colors, or textures, creates a sense of unity and cohesiveness.
Vary heights and textures: Combining plants of different heights and textures adds visual interest and depth to your poolside landscape.
Use hardscaping elements: Hardscaping elements like patios, walkways, and walls provide structure and definition to your pool area.
Incorporate lighting: Lighting can enhance the ambiance of your poolside oasis, especially in the evenings. String lights, lanterns, and path lighting can create a magical atmosphere.
Add comfortable seating: Comfortable seating is essential for relaxing by the pool. Choose lounge chairs, chaises, or hammocks that complement your style and provide ample space for relaxation.
Don’t forget the shade: Provide shade for hot summer days with umbrellas, pergolas, or shade sails.
Accessorize: Personalize your pool area with decorative elements like outdoor rugs, throw pillows, and potted plants.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What are the best plants for a pool with full sun?
A: Many plants thrive in full sun, including Sago Palm, Bird of Paradise, Mediterranean Fan Palm, Geranium, Lantana, and Russian Sage.
Q: What are the best plants for a pool with partial shade?
A: Plants that tolerate partial shade include Smooth Prickly Pear, Million Bells, Sweet Potato Vine, Hens and Chicks, Canna Lily, and Clematis.
Q: What are the best plants for a pool with limited space?
A: Several plants are suitable for small spaces, including Dwarf Blue Fescue, Hens and Chicks, Million Bells, and Sweet Potato Vine. Consider container plants for added flexibility.
Q: What are the best plants for a pool with a lot of wind?
A: Plants that can withstand windy conditions include Quaking Aspen, Russian Sage, and Ornamental Grasses. Choose plants with sturdy stems and deep roots.
Q: What are the best plants for a pool with a lot of chlorine?
A: Plants that are tolerant of chlorine include Sago Palm, Bird of Paradise, Geranium, Lantana, and Russian Sage. Avoid plants that are sensitive to chlorine, such as ferns and hostas.
Q: How often should I water my poolside plants?
A: The watering frequency will vary depending on the plant type, soil conditions, and weather. Generally, water your plants deeply when the soil feels dry to the touch.
Q: How often should I fertilize my poolside plants?
A: Fertilize your poolside plants according to the specific needs of each plant. Generally, most plants benefit from a balanced fertilizer applied every few months during the growing season.
Q: Do I need to prune my poolside plants?
A: Yes, pruning your poolside plants is essential for maintaining their shape and size. Prune regularly to remove dead or diseased branches, encourage new growth, and control the spread of plants.
Q: What are some common pests and diseases that can affect poolside plants?
A: Common pests and diseases that can affect poolside plants include aphids, whiteflies, scale, powdery mildew, and leaf spot. Regularly inspect your plants for signs of pests or diseases and treat them promptly with appropriate methods.
Q: How can I protect my poolside plants from chlorine damage?
A: To protect your poolside plants from chlorine damage, water them deeply and regularly, especially after swimming. You can also apply a protective barrier to the leaves of your plants, such as an anti-transpirant spray.
