Landscaping is the art of arranging plants, rocks, and other materials in a way that they appeal to the eye and enhance the landscape. It’s also an excellent way to save time, money and energy as you beautify your yard or garden. But with so many plants out there, how do you know which ones are best?
| Key Takeaways |
|---|
| Choosing the right landscaping plants can be overwhelming, but expert guidance can help you make informed decisions for your yard. |
| Adding a variety of low-maintenance landscaping plants can create a beautiful outdoor space with minimal upkeep. |
| Understanding light and water requirements is essential for finding plants that thrive in your yard. |
| There are many different types of landscaping plants to choose from, including those that provide color, texture, privacy, and more. |
| Timing is everything when it comes to planting your landscape, so be sure to research optimal planting schedules for different plant species. |
Here’s my list of 10 must-have landscaping plants for all gardens!
1. Black-Eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta)
Black-Eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta) is a plant that can be grown in most climates, although it’s best to plant them in well-drained soil. It’s also important that your black-eyed susans have plenty of sunlight and water, so you should make sure to water them regularly and not let them dry out.
To harvest your black-eyed susans, simply cut off the flower heads when they begin to droop or after they’ve bloomed for two or three weeks.
You can then cut up these flowers into smaller pieces and use them in many different ways; from cooking with them (they taste great!) to crafting with them – there are so many options!
If you’re struggling to choose the perfect plants to landscape your yard, don’t worry! Our experts have compiled a comprehensive guide on choosing the right landscaping plants for your specific needs so that you can enjoy a beautiful outdoor space all year round!
2. Butterfly Weed (Asclepias tuberosa)
Butterfly weed (Asclepias tuberosa) is a beautiful, hardy perennial that blooms from June to September. It can be grown in full sun or partial shade, but it tends to prefer moist soil and a location with good drainage.
It grows up to 3 feet tall and produces showy, bright orange flowers that attract butterflies and hummingbirds. This plant is also great for attracting pollinators – whether they’re bees or butterflies.
3. White Wood Aster (Eurybia divaricata)
Native to the northeastern United States, the white wood aster is a perennial that can be grown in full sun or partial shade. It’s also known as eurybia divaricata and is native to New York, Ohio and Pennsylvania.
The plant will grow upright from one foot to four feet tall with an equal spread of foliage, depending on how much water it receives.
This plant attracts bees and butterflies with its nectar-rich flowers that bloom from July until frost comes in autumn. If you’re looking for a perennial garden plant that will thrive under most conditions and is easy to maintain, this might be your best bet!
| Characteristics | White Wood Aster |
|---|---|
| Common Names | White Wood Aster, Aster divaricatus |
| Scientific Name | Eurybia divaricata |
| Mature Plant Size | 1-3 feet tall and 1-2 feet wide |
| Sun Exposure | Full sun to partial shade |
| Soil Type | Well-drained soil |
| Soil pH | Neutral to slightly acidic |
| Bloom Time | Late summer to early fall |
| Bloom Color | White |
| Special Features | Attracts pollinators, deer-resistant, shade-tolerant, low maintenance |
Note: White Wood Aster, commonly known as Aster divaricatus in some regions, is a low-maintenance and shade-tolerant plant that typically blooms in late summer to early fall. Its white flowers attract pollinators, and the plant is deer-resistant.
This table provides a brief overview of its characteristics, size, sun requirements, soil conditions, bloom time, bloom color, and special features.
4. Sweet pepperbush (Clethra alnifolia)
The sweet pepperbush is a native shrub that grows 8 feet tall and about as wide. It can be planted in full sun or partial shade, but does not do well in wet soil or when it’s exposed to cold winds.
It is an excellent choice for adding color to your backyard garden because its fragrant pink or white flowers appear in late summer on plants that are usually covered with glossy green leaves year-round.
This plant attracts butterflies and hummingbirds, so you’ll enjoy having it around even if you don’t have time to pay much attention to your landscaping.
Transform your outdoor space with just a few simple plants! Our list of 15 landscaping plants will help you add color, texture, and beauty to your garden while also improving your overall yard appeal.
5. Cardinal Flower (Lobelia cardinalis)
Cardinal flower is a perennial plant native to North America. It’s a member of the Lobelia family and, like all members of this family, has deeply lobed leaves that grow opposite each other on square stems.
The cardinal flower is known for its beautiful red flowers, which bloom from July through September and attract hummingbirds. This striking plant will add color and vibrancy to any garden!
6. Golden Fleece (Xanthorhiza simplicissima)
Golden Fleece (Xanthorhiza simplicissima) is a perennial plant that you can use to add texture to your garden. It’s a great addition to any backyard, since it can grow in dry soil and spreads easily.
The golden-yellow flowers of this plant bloom during the summer months, while its leaves turn red in autumn. To ensure proper care of your Golden Fleece, follow these steps:
Carefully dig up the rootstock from its current location and choose a spot with plenty of sunlight (at least 4 hours per day).
Make sure there isn’t anything growing near where you’re planting Golden Fleece so that your new plant won’t be harmed by competition for nutrients or water during its first year after transplanting.
2) Fill holes with loose soil; make sure they’re deep enough so roots have room to spread out once planted.
3) Water regularly until ground freezes over for winter.
4) Water again when buds begin appearing on plants in springtime.5) Cut back dead foliage when necessary.
Do you struggle to find the best landscaping plants for the sun or shade in your yard? Look no further than our helpful guide to discovering the top landscaping plants that thrive in a variety of light conditions and can help you create the perfect outdoor oasis.
7. Purple coneflower (Echinacea purpurea)
Purple coneflower (Echinacea purpurea) is a perennial that has pale purple flowers that bloom in late summer.
This plant has a long blooming time and attracts butterflies, hummingbirds, bees and other insects. Purple coneflower can grow up to 2 feet tall and produces long-lasting seed heads that continue to provide food for birds throughout the winter months.
| Characteristics | Purple Coneflower |
|---|---|
| Common Names | Purple Coneflower |
| Scientific Name | Echinacea purpurea |
| Mature Plant Size | 2-4 feet tall and 1-2 feet wide |
| Sun Exposure | Full sun to partial shade |
| Soil Type | Well-drained soil |
| Soil pH | Slightly acidic to slightly alkaline |
| Bloom Time | Summer |
| Bloom Color | Purple and pink |
| Special Features | Attracts pollinators, easy to grow, drought-tolerant, low maintenance |
Note: Purple Coneflower is commonly known as Echinacea purpurea in scientific terminology. It is a low-maintenance plant that has an extended blooming time in summer, making it attractive to pollinators. Additionally, it is drought-tolerant and easy to grow.
This table provides a brief overview of its characteristics, size, sun requirements, soil conditions, bloom time, bloom color, and special features.
8. Russian sage (Perovskia atriplicifolia)
Russian sage (Perovskia atriplicifolia) is a perennial that can be grown in full sun or partial shade. It can grow up to 3 feet tall and blooms from midsummer until frost, so you’ll have plenty of flowers to pick and use as cut flowers.
Russian sage requires little water once established, making it an ideal choice for dry gardens. This plant grows well in USDA zones 4-9
Low-maintenance landscaping plants are perfect for busy homeowners who want a stunning outdoor space without all the upkeep. Check out our list of the best low-maintenance landscaping plants that thrive with minimal water, pruning, and maintenance to help you enjoy a beautiful garden with less stress.
9. Moss phlox (Phlox subulata)
Moss phlox (Phlox subulata) is a perennial with pink or purple flowers that grow in clusters. It grows to about 3 feet tall and thrives in moist, but well-drained soil. Moss phlox is a great plant for shady areas because it can tolerate partial shade and actually prefers it over full sun exposure.
The mossy looking foliage is also an attractive feature of this plant. It has small green leaves that grow opposite one another on the stem, which gives it its name “mossy” phlox.
10. Lavender Bee Balm (Monarda didyma)
Lavender Bee Balm (Monarda didyma) is a perennial that grows up to 3 feet tall and blooms from mid-summer until frost. It is a good choice for the front of a border or as a specimen plant in the back of a border.
The flowers are borne on spikes, each flower being tubular, with five petals that range in color from pinkish to pinkish purple.
These plants may have their leaves butted up against each other at their bases, or they may be spaced apart more widely. The leaves are opposite one another on the stem, usually somewhat rounded and dark green above with lighter colored undersides.
Timing is everything when it comes to planting your new landscape! Our guide on the best time to plant your landscape will help you understand the optimal planting schedules for different plants and help ensure their health and survival.
Conclusion
So there you have it! Ten of the best landscaping plants for your garden. These are some of my favorites, and I hope they’re yours too. If you have any more suggestions for great plants to add to this list, let me know in the comments below!
Further Reading
Here are some additional resources to help you learn more about landscaping plants and design:
Low-Maintenance Plants for Easy Landscaping: Check out these beautiful and easy-to-care-for plants to create a stunning and low-maintenance garden.
10 Low-Maintenance Plants for Landscape: Looking for some additional inspiration? This list provides ten low-maintenance plants that are perfect for landscaping and can help you enhance your outdoor space.
Plants Every Garden Needs: From flowers to shrubs, this article will help you find the perfect plants to transform your garden into a green oasis.
FAQs
What are the best plants for a low-maintenance garden?
Some great low-maintenance plants include lavender, sage, succulents, wildflowers, and ornamental grasses.
How do I choose the right landscaping plants for my yard?
Consider factors such as the amount of sunlight and water your yard receives, your climate, and your personal preferences when choosing landscaping plants. Consulting with a professional landscaper can also be helpful.
How often should I water my landscaping plants?
The frequency of watering depends on the plant species and your climate. Generally, it’s best to water deeply and infrequently, allowing time for the soil to dry out in between waterings.
What should I do if my plants are not growing or thriving?
Check the soil quality, water levels, and lighting conditions in your garden. You can also consult with a local gardening expert to troubleshoot any problems.
How can I incorporate plants into my garden design?
Plants can be used as borders, privacy screens, focal points, and accent pieces in your garden design. Consider the color, texture, and height of each plant when designing your garden to create a beautiful, cohesive look.
Hi! My name is Hellen James, and I’m a landscape designer in Los Angeles. I’ve been working with homeowners and businesses to help them improve the look of their properties for over 10 years.
