There’s something truly magical about lounging by a pool that is beautifully surrounded by lush greenery such as tropical plants for around the pool.
Picture this: you’re sitting by the pool on a warm summer day, the sun gently warming your skin.
As you dip your feet in the cool water, you glance around and notice the vibrant colors and textures of the plants for around the pool.
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The air is filled with the subtle fragrance of flowers, and the gentle rustling of leaves adds a soothing soundtrack to your relaxation.
All this is because of growing tropical plants for around the pool in pots.
This serene environment not only enhances the beauty of your pool area but also provides a peaceful retreat where you can unwind and escape the stresses of daily life.
But you may ask, are plants for the pool area necessary? Is it possible to do landscaping around a pool?
If so, what are the best plants around the pool landscaping?
Before we answer those questions, here is something else.
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The Benefits of Growing Plants for the Pool Area
Having tropical plants for around the pool offers a multitude of benefits that go beyond mere aesthetics.
Firstly, plants for around the pool in pots create a natural oasis that enhances the visual appeal of your outdoor space.
The lush greenery and vibrant blooms provide a striking contrast to the blue water, making the pool area more inviting.
Moreover, these plants can provide much-needed shade, reducing the glare and keeping the area cooler.
They also improve air quality by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen, creating a healthier environment for you and your family.
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In addition, incorporating plants for around the pool in pots (pictured above ⬆) can help with privacy.
Tall, dense foliage can act as a natural barrier, shielding your pool from the view of neighbors and passersby.
This creates a more intimate setting where you can relax without feeling exposed.
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Furthermore, the right selection of plants can help with pest and weed control.
Certain species repel insects naturally, reducing the annoyance of bugs while you enjoy your time poolside.
Lastly, the presence best landscaping plants around the pool can significantly boost the overall value of your property.
A well-landscaped pool area is a strong selling point and can make your home more attractive to potential buyers.
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25 Plants for Around the Pool You Need to Try
To help you create the perfect poolside paradise, here are 25 plants for around the pool you need to try.
Each of these plants not only thrives in the pool area but also adds unique beauty and functionality to your outdoor space.
1. Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia reginae)
The Bird of Paradise is an iconic plant that brings a tropical feel to any poolside setting.
Its striking orange and blue flowers resemble a bird in flight, adding a splash of color and an exotic touch.
The broad, banana-like leaves provide a lush, green backdrop that complements the water’s blue tones.
This plant thrives in full sun and requires well-drained soil.
Hardiness Zone: 9-11.
2. Hibiscus (Hibiscus rosa-sinensis)
Hibiscus plants are perfect for adding a touch of the tropics to your pool area.
With their large, colorful blooms that come in various shades of red, pink, yellow, and white, they create a vibrant and inviting atmosphere.
Hibiscus plants prefer full sun and well-drained soil.
They can be grown in pots, making them versatile for landscaping around a pool.
Hardiness Zone: 9-11.
3. Ornamental Grasses (Miscanthus spp.)
Ornamental grasses for privacy add texture and movement to your poolside landscape.
Varieties like Miscanthus or Feather Reed Grass are ideal for creating a natural, wind-swept look.
These grasses are low-maintenance, drought-tolerant, and can be grown in pots, making them a great choice for poolside landscaping.
Hardiness Zone: 5-9.
4. Lavender (Lavandula spp.)
Lavender is an excellent choice for adding fragrance and color to your pool area.
Its purple flowers and silvery-green foliage create a serene and calming atmosphere.
Lavender thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, making it perfect for pots around the pool.
Hardiness Zone: 5-9.
5. Agave (Agave spp.)
Agave plants are known for their striking architectural form and drought tolerance, making them ideal for poolside areas.
Their spiky leaves add a modern touch to the landscape, and they require minimal maintenance.
Agave can be grown in pots, adding to their versatility for poolside settings.
Hardiness Zone: 8-10.
6. Bougainvillea (Bougainvillea spp.)
Bougainvillea is a vibrant, flowering vine that can add a pop of color to your poolside.
Its bright pink, purple, red, or orange flowers create a stunning display against the green foliage.
Bougainvillea thrives in full sun and can be grown in pots, making it suitable for landscaping around the pool.
Hardiness Zone: 9-11.
7. Bamboo (Bambusoideae)
Bamboo is a fast-growing plant that provides excellent privacy and a tropical feel to the pool area.
Interestingly, bamboo is among the top tropical plants for around the pool you can try.
The tree’s tall, slender canes and lush foliage create a natural screen, and it can be grown in pots to control its spread.
Bamboo is ideal for adding height and texture to your poolside landscape.
Hardiness Zone: 5-10.
8. Plumeria (Plumeria spp.)
Plumeria, also known as Frangipani, is a tropical plant with fragrant flowers that come in various colors, including white, pink, yellow, and red.
Its beautiful blooms and glossy leaves make it a popular choice for poolside landscaping.
Plumeria prefers full sun and well-drained soil.
Hardiness Zone: 10-12.
9. Fountain Grass (Pennisetum setaceum)
Fountain Grass adds elegance and movement to the pool area with its graceful, arching plumes.
This ornamental grass is easy to care for and thrives in full sun.
It can be grown in pots, making it a versatile choice for poolside landscaping.
Hardiness Zone: 6-9.
10. Jasmine (Jasminum spp.)
Jasmine is a fragrant flowering plant that adds a sweet scent to the pool area.
Its delicate white or yellow flowers and glossy green leaves create a lush and inviting atmosphere.
Jasmine can be grown in pots or as a climbing vine, making it suitable for various landscaping needs around the pool.
Hardiness Zone: 6-10.
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11. Succulents (Various spp.)
Succulents are low-maintenance plants that thrive in sunny, dry conditions.
Their unique shapes and textures add visual interest to the pool area.
Varieties like Echeveria, Aloe, and Sedum can be grown in pots, making them ideal for poolside landscaping.
Hardiness Zone: Varies by species, generally 5-11.
12. Palm Trees (Arecaceae)
Palm trees are quintessential plants for creating a tropical oasis around the pool.
Species like the Canary Island Date Palm or the Queen Palm provide height and shade, enhancing the pool area’s ambiance.
Palms thrive in full sun and well-drained soil.
Hardiness Zone: Varies by species, generally 8-11.
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13. Oleander (Nerium oleander)
Oleander is a hardy, evergreen shrub that produces clusters of colorful flowers throughout the summer.
Its dense foliage and vibrant blooms make it a great choice for adding color and privacy to the pool area.
Oleander can be grown in pots or planted directly in the ground.
Hardiness Zone: 8-10.
14. Canna Lilies (Canna spp.)
Canna Lilies are known for their large, tropical-looking flowers and lush foliage.
Their bright blooms come in shades of red, orange, yellow, and pink, adding a splash of color to the poolside.
Cannas prefer full sun and well-drained soil and can be grown in pots.
Hardiness Zone: 8-11.
15. Hostas (Hosta spp.)
Hostas are shade-loving plants that add lush greenery to the pool area.
Their large, textured leaves come in various shades of green, blue, and variegated patterns.
Hostas are perfect for adding depth and texture to landscaping around the pool.
Hardiness Zone: 3-9.
16. Aloe Vera (Aloe barbadensis miller)
Aloe Vera is a hardy, drought-tolerant succulent known for its medicinal properties.
Its spiky, fleshy leaves add an interesting texture to the poolside landscape.
Aloe Vera thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, making it perfect for pots around the pool.
Its soothing gel can also be used to treat minor skin irritations, making it both a decorative and practical choice.
Hardiness Zone: 8-11.
17. Cordyline (Cordyline australis)
Cordyline, also known as Cabbage Tree, is a striking plant with bold, sword-shaped leaves that can range from green to red, pink, and even purple.
This tropical plant adds a touch of drama to the pool area and thrives in full sun to partial shade.
It can be grown in pots, making it a versatile choice for adding height and color to your poolside garden.
Hardiness Zone: 9-11.
18. Lantana (Lantana camara)
Lantana is a hardy, low-maintenance shrub that produces clusters of small, vibrant flowers in various colors, including red, orange, yellow, and purple.
This plant is drought-tolerant and thrives in full sun, making it ideal for the pool area.
Lantana can be grown in pots or directly in the ground, providing long-lasting blooms throughout the summer.
Hardiness Zone: 8-11.
19. Croton (Codiaeum variegatum)
Croton plants are known for their colorful, variegated leaves that come in shades of red, yellow, green, and orange.
These vibrant plants add a tropical flair to the pool area and thrive in full sun to partial shade.
Crotons are relatively low-maintenance and can be grown in pots, making them an excellent choice for adding bold color to your poolside landscape.
Hardiness Zone: 10-11.
20. Yucca (Yucca spp.)
Yucca plants are known for their architectural form and spiky, sword-like leaves.
They are drought-tolerant and thrive in full sun, making them ideal for poolside areas.
Yucca plants add a modern, desert-inspired look to the landscape and can be grown in pots for easy placement around the pool.
Hardiness Zone: 5-11.
21. Elephant Ears (Colocasia spp.)
Elephant Ears are tropical plants with large, heart-shaped leaves that can add a dramatic touch to the pool area.
These plants prefer partial shade and moist soil, making them perfect for adding a lush, exotic feel to the landscape.
They can be grown in pots or planted directly in the ground, creating a stunning visual impact.
Hardiness Zone: 8-11.
22. Blue Fescue (Festuca glauca)
Blue Fescue is a compact, ornamental grass with fine, blue-gray foliage.
This plant adds a cool, calming color to the poolside landscape and thrives in full sun.
Blue Fescue is low-maintenance and drought-tolerant, making it a great choice for pots around the pool.
Hardiness Zone: 4-8.
23. Mexican Feather Grass (Nassella tenuissima)
Mexican Feather Grass is a graceful, ornamental grass with fine, wispy blades that add movement and texture to the pool area.
It thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, making it a low-maintenance option for poolside landscaping.
Mexican Feather Grass can be grown in pots, adding a soft, flowing element to the landscape.
Hardiness Zone: 7-10.
24. New Zealand Flax (Phormium tenax)
New Zealand Flax is an architectural plant with long, sword-like leaves that come in various colors, including green, red, bronze, and yellow.
This plant adds a bold, tropical touch to the pool area and thrives in full sun to partial shade.
New Zealand Flax is drought-tolerant and can be grown in pots, making it a versatile choice for poolside landscaping.
Hardiness Zone: 8-11.
25. Papyrus (Cyperus papyrus)
Papyrus is a tall, reed-like plant with striking, umbrella-shaped foliage.
This aquatic plant adds a unique, exotic feel to the pool area and thrives in full sun and moist soil.
Papyrus can be grown in pots or water gardens, making it a versatile choice for creating a lush, tropical atmosphere around the pool.
Hardiness Zone: 9-11.
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The Dos and Dont’s of Having Plants Around the Pool
Having plants around the pool can enhance the aesthetic appeal of your pool area and create a relaxing, natural atmosphere.
However, there are certain considerations to keep in mind to ensure the plants thrive and do not interfere with pool maintenance.
Here are some dos and don’ts for having plants around the pool:
Dos
Choose Low-Maintenance Plants: Opt for plants that require minimal care and are drought-tolerant.
Succulents, palms, and ornamental grasses are great options.
Select Non-Shedding Plants: Choose plants that do not drop a lot of leaves, flowers, or fruit to minimize pool cleaning.
Plants like agave, yucca, and bamboo are good choices.
Use Potted Plants: Potted plants are easier to manage and move.
They also prevent roots from spreading into pool plumbing or paving.
Consider Salt-Tolerant Plants: If you have a saltwater pool, select plants that can tolerate salty conditions, such as coastal plants like lavender or rosemary.
Create a Barrier: Use plants to create a natural barrier for privacy and wind protection.
Tall ornamental grasses, hedges, or bamboo can provide an attractive screen.
Opt for Native Plants: Native plants are well-suited to the local climate and soil conditions, making them easier to maintain and more likely to thrive.
Think About Color and Texture: Choose plants with various colors and textures to add visual interest to the pool area.
Mix flowering plants with foliage plants for a balanced look.
Provide Adequate Drainage: Ensure that the area around the pool has proper drainage to prevent waterlogging, which can harm both the plants and pool structure.
Use Mulch: Apply mulch around plants to retain moisture, reduce weeds, and provide a neat appearance.
Don’ts
Avoid Thorny Plants: Steer clear of plants with sharp thorns or spines, such as cacti or certain types of roses, as they can pose a safety hazard.
Don’t Plant Invasive Species: Avoid plants with aggressive growth habits that can spread and take over the pool area, such as mint or bamboo without containment.
Avoid Messy Plants: Steer clear of plants that shed a lot of leaves, flowers, or fruits, as they can clog pool filters and create additional maintenance.
Don’t Use Plants That Attract Insects: Avoid planting flowers that attract bees, wasps, or other insects near the pool area, as they can be a nuisance or even pose a danger.
Avoid Plants with Large Root Systems: Do not plant trees or shrubs with extensive root systems near the pool, as they can cause damage to the pool’s structure or plumbing.
Avoid Overcrowding: Do not overcrowd the area with too many plants.
This can make the space feel cramped and create excessive debris.
Avoid Plants Sensitive to Pool Chemicals: Be cautious with plants sensitive to chlorine or other pool chemicals.
Opt for more resilient varieties that can handle occasional splashes.
Avoid Tall Plants Near the Pool Edge: Tall plants near the pool edge can cast unwanted shadows and drop debris into the pool.
Keep taller plants further back or in pots.
Plants for Around the Pool FAQs
Q: What are the best plants for around the pool in pots?
A: The best plants for around the pool in pots include Hibiscus, Lavender, Agave, Bougainvillea, and Jasmine. These plants thrive in containers and can be easily moved to create the desired poolside landscape.
Q: How do I choose the best landscaping plants around the pool?
A: When choosing the best landscaping plants around the pool, consider factors like sunlight, water needs, and maintenance requirements. Opt for drought-tolerant plants, those that can withstand pool chemicals, and complement the overall aesthetic of your pool area.
Q: Can ornamental grasses be used for landscaping around a pool?
A: Yes, ornamental grasses like Miscanthus and Fountain Grass are excellent choices for landscaping around a pool. They add texture and movement and are low-maintenance, making them ideal for poolside settings.
Q: How do I maintain plants for the pool area?
A: To maintain plants for the pool area, ensure they receive adequate sunlight and water, use well-draining soil, and regularly prune to keep them healthy and attractive. Also, consider using fertilizers suited for each plant type to promote growth and vibrancy.
Parting Shot
Incorporating plants for around the pool not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of your poolside area but also provides functional benefits like shade, privacy, and improved air quality.
Whether you choose to grow these plants in pots or directly in the ground, selecting the right species will create a serene and inviting environment where you can relax and enjoy the beauty of nature.
With these 25 best plants around the pool, your landscaping around a pool will be easy, thus transforming your pool area into a lush, tropical paradise that will be the envy of all your friends and neighbors.