Last Updated on September 2, 2026
Adding plants around your swimming pool can transform your backyard into a tropical paradise or a serene escape. Not only do they enhance the beauty of the space, but they also create a sense of privacy, provide shade, and even offer some natural fragrance. But picking the right plants to put around a pool is crucial. You want to select plants that thrive in your climate, look fantastic year-round, and won’t create a mess by constantly dropping leaves or flowers into your pool. Let’s take a look at some of the best plants that are perfectly suited to a poolside environment.
Ornamental Grasses: Versatile and Easy to Maintain
Ornamental grasses are a great choice for planting around a pool. They are hardy, low-maintenance, and add a modern, elegant look to your landscape. Some of the best options include Fountain Grass and Maiden Grass, both of which grow in beautiful clumps that sway gently in the wind, giving a sense of movement and softness to your pool area.
Ornamental grasses thrive in full sun, require very little care, and generally don’t shed a lot of leaves, making them ideal for keeping the pool area clean. They can also tolerate periods of drought, which is perfect for those hotter months when the heat becomes relentless.
Tropical Plants: Adding a Lush, Exotic Feel
For a more lush, tropical aesthetic, plants like **Bird of Paradise**, **Hibiscus**, and **Banana Trees** can do wonders. **Bird of Paradise** has striking flowers that resemble exotic birds, adding a pop of color that is perfect for poolside vibes. **Hibiscus** flowers are large and vibrant, coming in various colors like red, pink, yellow, and orange, and they give off a true tropical feel that many pool owners crave.
Banana Trees can also add that island touch to your pool area. Though they don’t produce edible bananas in most climates, their large, glossy leaves create a lush backdrop that gives a sense of privacy and shade. The only thing to watch out for is their large leaves, which can drop during windy days, so make sure to plant them a little further away from the water’s edge.
Succulents: A Modern, Drought-Tolerant Option
So what are the best plants to put around a pool if you live somewhere more arid? If you’re looking for something modern and easy to care for, succulents are a perfect choice. Aloe Vera, Agave, and Yucca are some of the best succulents to plant around your pool. These hardy plants thrive in hot conditions and don’t require much water—plus, they add a unique, sculptural look that works especially well in contemporary landscapes.
Aloe Vera is not only attractive but also practical, as the gel inside the leaves can be used to soothe sunburns. Agave and Yucca have spiky, dramatic leaves that give an architectural quality to your landscaping. Just be careful to plant these succulents in spots where people won’t accidentally brush up against them, as they can have sharp edges.
Palms: Classic Poolside Favorites
Nothing says “poolside oasis” quite like a palm tree. Palms are synonymous with relaxation and tropical holidays, making them a popular choice for many pool areas. Queen Palm, Pygmy Date Palm, and Windmill Palm are a few varieties that work particularly well near pools.
Pygmy Date Palms are smaller and can be planted in clusters to create a lush, full look without taking up too much space. Queen Palms, on the other hand, are tall and graceful, providing shade and adding vertical interest. Windmill Palms are known for their hardiness and can withstand cooler temperatures, making them a great choice if you live in a region that experiences some seasonal changes.
Palms generally have minimal leaf drop compared to other trees, which means less debris ending up in your pool. They also grow well in containers, so if you’re not sure about committing to planting them directly in the ground, you can keep them in pots around the pool area.
Fragrant Plants: Adding Pleasant Aromas
Another great idea is to include some fragrant plants around your pool to enhance the sensory experience. Lavender, Jasmine, and Gardenia are perfect options for adding a natural fragrance that isn’t overpowering.
Lavender is a great low-maintenance plant that adds a pop of purple color and gives off a calming scent. Jasmine and Gardenia both have sweet-smelling flowers that can make evenings by the pool even more relaxing. Just be sure to plant these a little away from the water, as the flowers may fall in and need to be skimmed out.
Flowering Shrubs: Color and Structure
If you want to add some height and structure around your pool, flowering shrubs like Oleander, Plumbago, and Bougainvillea are fantastic options. Oleander is well-known for its lovely flowers that come in colors like pink, white, and red. It’s drought-tolerant and can handle the heat—just remember that it’s toxic, so avoid planting it if you have pets or young children who might come into contact with it.
Plumbago produces masses of blue flowers that bloom throughout the warmer months and attract butterflies, adding a whimsical touch to your backyard. Bougainvillea is another great option if you’re looking for a colorful vine to grow along a fence or trellis near your pool. Its vibrant pink, purple, or orange flowers can brighten up any poolside area.
Ground Covers: Filling in the Gaps
For filling in the spaces around your pool and creating a lush, seamless landscape, consider using ground covers like Dwarf Mondo Grass, Lantana, or Sedum. Dwarf Mondo Grass is a low-growing, grass-like plant that’s perfect for edging or filling in small spaces around the pool deck. It’s hardy, drought-resistant, and won’t shed leaves into your pool.
Lantana is another great ground cover that produces bright, colorful flowers. It’s easy to grow and will attract butterflies to your garden. Sedum is a type of succulent that works well as a ground cover, providing a modern, low-maintenance solution for filling in bare spots.
Tips for Choosing the Best Poolside Plants
When choosing plants to put around your pool, keep in mind these key considerations:
– Low Litter: Choose plants that don’t shed a lot of leaves, flowers, or fruit. This will minimize the time spent cleaning your pool and help keep the water clean.
– Drought Tolerance: Since pool areas tend to be hot and sunny, drought-tolerant plants are a great choice. They’ll thrive without needing constant watering, which is particularly helpful if you live in an area with water restrictions.
– Non-Invasive Roots: Avoid plants with aggressive root systems, as they can damage your pool’s structure or surrounding paving. Opt for plants with shallow, non-invasive roots to prevent any potential damage.
– Safety: If you have children or pets, consider avoiding plants that are toxic or have sharp edges. Always check that the plants you choose are safe for everyone who uses the pool area.
Creating Your Poolside Paradise
Selecting the best outdoor plants for your pool area can turn your backyard into a beautiful, relaxing retreat. Whether you’re going for a tropical theme with palms and hibiscus, a modern look with succulents, or a fragrant garden with lavender and jasmine, the right plants can elevate your pool experience.
Take into account your climate, the amount of sun your pool area gets, and your personal preferences when choosing which plants to include. With the right selection, you can create a gorgeous landscape that not only looks great but also provides privacy, shade, and a calming environment for your family and guests.
A little planning and the right choices can transform your pool area from a simple swimming spot into a stunning, resort-like oasis where you’ll love spending time. So get out there, start planting, and make your poolside dreams a reality!
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