There’s something magical about lounging by the pool, surrounded by lush greenery that not only enhances the beauty of the space but also creates a tranquil, tropical vibe. Whether you’re relaxing on a sunny afternoon or hosting a lively pool party, the right plants can transform your pool area into a true oasis. But choosing the best plants for a poolside space isn’t just about looks – you want plants that are low maintenance, drought tolerant, and able to handle the unique conditions of being around water, chlorine, and constant sun.
Did you know that plants like Agave have been used for centuries in Mexico for both medicinal purposes and as a source of fiber? Fun fact: The Hawaiian Hibiscus is actually the state flower of Hawaii, symbolizing beauty and joy – perfect for a pool area that brings relaxation and happiness!
In this guide, we’ll explore some of the best plants for a pool area that will elevate your outdoor space without adding extra work to your pool maintenance routine.
Best Plants for Pool Area
1. Frangipani
Frangipani, also known as plumeria, is a favorite when it comes to poolside plants. With its stunning, fragrant flowers in shades of white, pink, and yellow, this plant adds elegance to any pool area. It thrives in full sun and well-draining soil, making it perfect for outdoor spaces where direct sunlight is abundant. Fun fact: Frangipani is commonly used in Hawaiian leis! It’s drought-tolerant too, meaning less stress about over-watering.
2. Echeveria Elegans
If you’re looking for something compact and striking, Echeveria Elegans, or Mexican Snowball, is an excellent choice. This succulent is not only drought-tolerant but also low maintenance – two characteristics every poolside plant should have. Plus, its fleshy leaves store water, making it perfect for sunny spots around the pool. Pair these beauties with decorative containers to create a modern, minimalist look. They thrive in well-draining soil and can easily be moved around in potted plants to adjust for changing sunlight.
Potted plants are an excellent way to keep your poolside landscaping flexible. Container plants like Olive Trees or Echeveria can be easily moved around for optimal sun exposure, and they allow you to change up the look of your outdoor space with minimal effort. Containers also help control soil conditions, making it easier to provide well-drained soil even in areas with heavy clay soil.
3. Hawaiian Hibiscus (Hibiscus rosa-sinensis)
Want some tropical vibes? Hawaiian Hibiscus delivers! Its large blooms add vibrant pops of color to any poolside landscaping, and this plant thrives in full sun soil. However, you’ll want to avoid planting it near the pool deck, as the fallen flower petals can be messy. Grow it in containers to keep the pool area clean, while also making it easy to relocate when necessary.
When choosing plants for your pool area, think about safety hazards, especially if you have children or pets. Avoid plants like the Angel’s Trumpet plant, which can be toxic, and instead, opt for non-toxic alternatives like Hibiscus or Echeveria. Make sure to also steer clear of thorny or sharp plants near the pool deck to prevent accidents.
4. Star Jasmine
For those who love sweet scents, Star Jasmine is a must-have plant. With glossy leaves and delicate white flowers, this evergreen climber can create a natural screen around the pool area, adding privacy and elegance. It’s partial shade-friendly but still does well in full sun, making it perfect for various poolside locations. You can also train it along fences or trellises to enhance your poolside landscape.
5. Fishtail Palm
Fishtail Palm adds texture to your poolside landscaping with its unique fishtail-like leaves. Known for being drought-tolerant and easy to care for, it’s great for those who want a low-maintenance tropical plant. It thrives in warm climates and partial shade, making it adaptable to different areas around the pool.
6. Golden Cane Palm
Golden Cane Palm is a poolside favorite for its slender trunk and tropical look. It grows well in full sun or partial shade, making it versatile for different sun exposure levels around the pool area. Plus, it has non-invasive roots, which means you don’t have to worry about it damaging your pool structure. Pair it with ornamental grasses like fountain grass to create a natural, serene vibe.
7. Banana Tree (Musa)
If you’re looking for something bold, the Banana Plant is perfect. Its lush foliage brings a Mediterranean charm to any poolside landscape, and it’s surprisingly low-maintenance. While it thrives in warm, tropical climates, it can also handle some wind, making it a great choice if your pool area is exposed to the elements. Just remember to provide well-draining soil to avoid root rot.
Many of these pool plants prefer well-draining soil, and some, like the Banana Tree or Echeveria, can even tolerate clay soil with proper care. Make sure your pool area has a balance of full sun and partial shade, and avoid overwatering by using drought-tolerant varieties like succulents and palms.
8. Olive Tree
For a poolside landscape with a touch of Mediterranean elegance, Olive Trees are an excellent choice. They’re low maintenance, drought-tolerant, and thrive in full sun. Olive trees can also serve as a natural screen, providing privacy without creating too much shade. Bonus tip: Grow it in a container to easily move it during colder months or extreme heat.
9. Viburnum Suspense
Looking for a hardy shrub to fill in spaces around your pool? Viburnum Suspense might be the answer. Its lush foliage and striking flowers make it ideal for poolside plantings. It can grow in partial sun soil and does well in warmer climates, making it a flexible option for many outdoor spaces. The plant’s non-shedding foliage also keeps pool maintenance to a minimum – always a win!
Conclusion
When it comes to finding the best plants for your pool area, the key is striking a balance between beauty and practicality. By choosing a mix of low-maintenance, drought-tolerant, and visually stunning plants, you can create a serene outdoor space that feels like a true getaway. Many poolside plants, like palms and succulents, are perfect for full sun, handling intense heat without requiring constant watering.
These plants not only withstand the unique conditions of being around a swimming pool – like exposure to chlorine and splashes of saltwater – but they also thrive in well-drained soil, making them ideal for busy pool owners who want their outdoor space to look beautiful with minimal upkeep. Adding a combination of greenery and colorful flowers will further elevate your pool area, giving it a vibrant, tropical vibe that’s perfect for relaxation or entertaining guests.
Whether you choose to plant directly in the ground or opt for potted plants, the flexibility of poolside landscaping allows for endless possibilities. Potted plants, for example, offer the added benefit of mobility, making it easy to rearrange them to suit your sun exposure or decorative preferences. These container plants also help you control the soil conditions, ensuring proper drainage, even in more challenging soil types like clay.
