The Ultimate Guide to Poolside Plant Landscaping: 18 Plants to Transform Your Outdoor Space

ByWayne Brown
The Ultimate Guide to Poolside Plant Landscaping: 18 Plants to Transform Your Outdoor Space

Are you looking to spruce up your poolside landscaping? Creating a beautiful outdoor space around your pool can enhance the overall look and feel of your backyard oasis. But when it comes to choosing the right plants for your pool area, there are a few key factors to consider. You’ll want to select plants that can withstand the unique microclimate around your pool, require minimal maintenance, and add visual appeal to your outdoor space.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore 18 top plants for poolside landscaping that are sure to impress. From tropical favorites to drought-tolerant succulents, these plants offer a variety of colors, shapes, and textures to enhance your pool area. Whether you’re looking for shade, privacy, or just a touch of greenery, there’s a plant on this list that’s perfect for your poolside paradise.

The Benefits of Poolside Plants

Adding plants to your pool landscaping has many benefits beyond just aesthetics. Here are some of the advantages of incorporating plants into your poolside space:

  • Shade and Privacy: Poolside plants can provide additional shade for those hot summer days and create a sense of privacy around your pool.
  • Visual Appeal: Plants add color, texture, and interest to your outdoor space, enhancing the overall look and feel of your pool area.
  • Low Maintenance: Many poolside plants are easy to care for and require minimal maintenance, making them a hassle-free addition to your landscaping.
  • Microclimate Regulation: Plants can help regulate the microclimate around your pool, creating a more comfortable environment for swimming and relaxation.

Now, let’s dive into our list of the top 18 plants for poolside landscaping:

1. Banana Tree (Musa)

If you’re dreaming of a tropical paradise around your pool, the banana tree is an excellent choice. With its broad, tropical-looking leaves, banana trees can instantly create the mood you desire. Plant them in a protected spot to prevent wind damage.

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2. Hawaiian Hibiscus (Hibiscus rosa-sinensis)

Bring a touch of Hawaii to your poolside with the beautiful Hawaiian hibiscus. With a variety of species to choose from, these flowering plants can add a pop of color to your outdoor space. Be sure to provide plenty of water for these thirsty plants.

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3. Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia reginae)

For a tropical oasis vibe, consider adding a bird of paradise to your pool landscaping. With its upright growth habit and striking leaves, this plant is sure to make a statement. Make sure to protect it from strong winds.

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4. Zebra Grass (Miscanthus sinensis ‘Zebrinus’)

Ornamental grasses like zebra grass can add texture and interest to your poolside landscaping. With its exotic look and quick growth, zebra grass is a popular choice for poolside plantings.

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5. Egyptian Papyrus (Cyperus papyrus)

Create a lush, tropical atmosphere around your pool with Egyptian papyrus. These water-loving plants thrive in damp conditions and can add a unique touch to your poolside landscaping.

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6. Angel’s Trumpet (Brugmansia)

Known for its heavenly scent, angel’s trumpet is a stunning addition to any pool area. Be cautious, as all parts of this plant are toxic and should be kept away from children and pets.

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Important Note:

  • All parts of the angel’s trumpet plant are toxic and poisoning can occur from ingestion and even touching the plant. Gloves should be worn for everyday care of the angel’s trumpet. Avoid this plant if you have children or animals and seek medical attention immediately if you suspect exposure or poisoning.

7. Echeveria (Crassulaceae)

Drought-tolerant and unique in appearance, Echeveria is a great choice for poolside planters. With their velvety texture and low maintenance needs, these succulents are a perfect addition to your pool area.

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8. Kangaroo Paw (Anigozanthos flavida)

Originating from Australia, kangaroo paw plants are known for their graceful appearance and beautiful flowers. These perennials come in a variety of colors and can add a splash of vibrancy to your poolside landscaping.

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9. Martha Washington Geranium (Regal pelargonium)

For a pop of color that lasts throughout the season, consider adding Martha Washington geraniums to your poolside plantings. These hybrids come in a range of vibrant colors and exotic-looking blooms.

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10. Proteas (Banksia)

With their striking orange blooms, proteas are a tropical beauty that can thrive in rocky, nutrient-poor soil. Pair them with other tropical plants for a vibrant poolside paradise.

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11. Ornamental Sweet Potato Vine (I. batatas)

The bright chartreuse foliage of the ornamental sweet potato vine can add a pop of color to your poolside planters. Fast-growing and easy to care for, these trailing vines are a versatile addition to your outdoor space.

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12. Agave Attenuata (Agave attenuata)

Known for its architectural shape and low-water needs, Agave attenuata is a striking addition to poolside landscaping. Propagate this plant easily and watch it thrive in the southwestern United States.

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13. Hebe (Hebe)

Enhance your poolside border with the exotic and striking hebe plant. These shrubby plants prefer mild winter zones and add a touch of elegance to your poolside landscaping.

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14. Aeonium (Aeonium)

Succulents like Aeonium are gaining popularity in drought-tolerant landscapes. With a wide range of shapes and sizes, these succulents store water in their fleshy leaves, making them an excellent choice for poolside plantings.

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15. Jade (Crassula ovata)

Low-maintenance and versatile, jade plants are a popular choice for poolside landscaping. With their water-storing leaves, jades are easy to care for and add a touch of green to your outdoor space.

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16. Staghorn Fern (Platycerium superbum)

Bring a touch of the tropics to your pool area with staghorn ferns. These unique plants can be mounted on wood slabs or bark, making them a versatile addition to your poolside space.

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17. Creeping Jenny (Lysimachia)

Add a pop of chartreuse color to your poolside landscaping with creeping jenny. This vigorous plant can act as a ground cover or spill out of containers near your pool, creating a lush and vibrant outdoor space.

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18. Schefflera (Schefflera)

Also known as the Queensland umbrella tree, schefflera is a versatile plant that performs well near swimming pools. Combine it with other tropical plants for a lush and tropical poolside oasis.

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In summary, choosing the right plants for your poolside landscaping can enhance the beauty and functionality of your outdoor space. Whether you prefer tropical blooms, drought-tolerant succulents, or vibrant foliage, there’s a plant on this list that’s perfect for your pool area. With proper care and maintenance, these plants can thrive and transform your poolside paradise into a lush and inviting oasis.

So, go ahead and start planning your poolside plantings today. With the right plants and a little creativity, you can create a stunning outdoor space that you’ll enjoy for years to come. Let your poolside landscaping reflect your personal style and create a beautiful backdrop for all your summertime gatherings. Happy planting!

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