Alright, first off—congrats on the pool. Whether it’s big enough to host your entire neighborhood or just enough space for floating around with a drink in hand, it’s yours, and that’s awesome.
But let’s be honest—a naked pool surrounded by plain concrete or patchy grass? Not exactly giving vacation vibes. That’s where plants come in. The right greenery can turn your backyard pool into a tiny slice of paradise.
I’ve gone through a lot (and I mean a lot) of plant disasters and pool-side gardening wins over the years. So everything you’re going to read here comes with a big ol’ splash of personal trial, error, and a mildly sunburned green thumb.
Ready to make your pool area look like it belongs in a magazine (or at least your Instagram feed)? Let’s do it.
1. Bird of Paradise – The Big Tropical Drama Queen
If you want “wow” factor, this is your plant. Bird of Paradise looks like it flew in straight from a Hawaiian postcard.
It’s got those giant banana-style leaves and shoots out crazy-beautiful flowers that look like actual tropical birds (hence the name, obviously). Stick a few around the pool, and boom—your backyard now feels like a fancy resort.
But here’s the deal. These plants like sunlight. They hate being ignored. So don’t stick them in a corner and forget about them, or they’ll absolutely retaliate—with sad drooping and no flowers for you.
I planted one too close to a shady part of the fence once. It basically gave me the silent treatment for a year. Move it 3 feet into the sun? Blooms galore.
What makes it shine around the pool:
- Massive leaves give tropical “I live in Maui now” energy.
- Flowers add fiery color without being high maintenance.
- Doesn’t shed annoying stuff into the water.
2. Foxtail Fern – The Sweet Little Fuzzy Guy
Okay, we need to talk about Foxtail Ferns. They’re like that loyal friend who’s chill, easy to have around, and somehow always looks good in pictures.
These guys are great fillers. You can tuck them between taller plants, line them up in cute planter boxes, or just let them spill over a rock wall. They’ve got these bright green, fluffy tails that make everything look softer and a little more magical.
Plus, they don’t leave a mess. No petals. No dry leaves. Just year-round perky green goodness.
Why I’m obsessed:
- Zero drama. Seriously, it gets by with very little water.
- It spreads gently, not like a plant that’s trying to take over the world.
- Looks awesome against stone or dark mulch.
I’ve had a few in the same spot for 4 years now. They still look like I bought them yesterday. Name a more reliable pool guest—I’ll wait.
3. Hibiscus – Instant Tropical Vibes
Let’s just say it: Hibiscus is the Beyoncé of poolside plants. Flashy. Confident. Impossible to ignore.
These shrubs go big. Massive, show-stopping flowers that come in more colors than a pack of Skittles—red, yellow, pink, white, orange, sometimes all at once like they couldn’t decide. It makes your pool area feel like an island retreat… minus the airfare.
I like to plant hibiscus in clusters for a full-on explosion of color. And if you’re lucky enough to live in a warm climate year-round, they’ll bloom like crazy with a little love.
Heads-up though: They’re pretty thirsty. Don’t skimp on watering, or the leaves get all dramatic and drop like it’s the end of a soap opera.
Why it belongs near your pool:
- Instant pop of color.
- Attracts hummingbirds and butterflies—basically nature’s glitter.
- Can be shaped as a bush or small tree.
Oh, and yes, I talk to my hibiscus. Don’t judge me.
4. Agave – The Cool One That Doesn’t Try Too Hard
You know that friend who just rolls up, throws on sunglasses, and looks effortlessly stylish without any effort? That’s Agave.
This desert plant is all about structure and simplicity. It’s got thick, spiky leaves that look like modern art. You can plant it in a pot, in gravel, or among rocks, and it’ll still look like a million bucks.
And the best part? You can ignore it—literally. It doesn’t want your water, your fertilizer, or your emotional baggage.
Agave comes in different types too—from the crazy massive ones that could knock someone out to cute little varieties that sit politely in the corner.
Why I keep coming back to it:
- Practically indestructible.
- Adds sculptural drama without being all leafy and wild.
- Perfect around pools with a minimalist or desert vibe.
Warning: The tips can be sharp, so maybe don’t place them where kids or clumsy friends wander.
5. Crotons – The Rainbow Rebels
Let me tell you, Crotons are pure joy in plant form. They’re like every color of autumn jammed into a single leaf—bright red, yellow, orange, green, sometimes sporting all four in one plant.
If you want color without relying on flowers that you constantly have to deadhead, this is it.
I like to use Crotons to break up all the green around the pool. They play really well with palm trees and ferns and help make everything look a little more curated.
They’re fine in pots or in the ground, but they do love heat. I once tried growing one in a semi-shady spot. It promptly turned into a green blob and lost all color. Lesson learned.
Why they’re awesome poolside:
- Insane foliage colors.
- Super low-maintenance.
- Makes everything around it look bolder.
Honestly, they’re the plant version of wearing a loud Hawaiian shirt to a casual barbecue—and absolutely owning it.
6. Kentia Palm – The Elegant Pool Butler
You know how some people just have presence without being flashy? That’s the Kentia Palm in the plant world.
It’s tall, chic, and sophisticated. Kind of like the poolside butler you never had—but plants. Its fronds are long and feathery, and they arch so gracefully you’d think it took ballet classes.
I planted a couple of these behind some lounge chairs, and let me tell you, it instantly made my backyard feel more expensive. It’s one of those plants that whispers “luxury” without screaming for attention.
The best part? It handles a bit of shade and even some salt spray—yes, for those of you by the coast.
Why I’m a fan:
- Tolerant of partial shade, perfect for those in-between spots.
- Grows slowly, so it won’t suddenly become a tree and block out the sun.
- Pretty much maintenance-free besides the occasional leaf clean-up.
If your backyard pool is your sanctuary, then the Kentia is your garden therapist—calm, quiet, and secretly fixing all the visual chaos.
7. Bougainvillea – The Wild Child
Let’s just say it like it is. Bougainvillea is stunning… and totally nuts.
You want color? Bougainvillea brings it. Hot pink, fuchsia, white, orange, purple—you name it. It doesn’t politely ask for attention—it demands it.
I once planted one along the fence behind my pool, and within a few months, it looked like a flamboyant jungle had broken in. It climbed everywhere and exploded with color. Great choice? Yes. Was I slightly terrified of its thorny takeover? Also yes.
But here’s the thing: if you give it structure and a little discipline (think trellis or pergola), it’ll reward you with the most breathtaking display ever.
What to know before committing:
- Needs full sun and good drainage.
- Can grow aggressively, so keep the clippers handy.
- Drops petals like confetti, so maybe not right next to the water.
Is it slightly chaotic? Sure. But who doesn’t love a bit of drama?
8. Elephant Ears – The Bold Statement Makers
Let me introduce you to a plant that does not believe in subtlety: Elephant Ears. These guys show up with leaves bigger than your face. Like, actually.
They create this lush, jungle-like vibe that’s just unbeatable near a pool. I planted a few behind my lounge area, and I swear it dropped the temperature by a couple of degrees just from the massive shade.
They come in different types—some are bright green, others are deep purple or even black. Pro tip: mix a few types together for a layered, textured look that absolutely slaps.
Why they’re pool-perfect:
- Instant drama. You can’t ignore them even if you try.
- Thrive in moist areas, which—hello, you’ve got a pool.
- Great for tropical-themed yards.
One catch? These babies love water. So if you live in a dry climate, you will become very familiar with your garden hose.
9. Lantana – The Party Animal
Okay, Lantana is that fun, low-maintenance friend who always shows up with the best appetizers. Bursting with vibrant flowers, it blooms almost endlessly—and I mean all spring and summer long.
I absolutely love planting these along the edges of paved pool areas. They stay low, so they won’t block your view, and they make everything feel happy and lively.
Plus, butterflies and bees can’t get enough. Plant a coupe of clusters and it’s like throwing a pollinator garden party every day.
Here’s why you’ll want some around the pool:
- Low-growing, compact, and colorful as heck.
- Drought-tolerant—yes please.
- Comes in pinks, reds, yellows, purples, or my personal favorite: multicolor explosions.
Quick note: they can be slightly invasive in certain climates. But, honestly? I’ve never met someone who regretted inviting lantana to the poolside fiesta.
10. Boxwood Shrubs – The Classics Never Die
Alright, if the wild and colorful types aren’t your jam, let’s talk Boxwood. These old-school shrubs are like the perfectly tailored blazer in your closet. They never not look good.
What I love about them near pools is they bring STRUCTURE. If you want a modern clean look, or want to tuck herbs or blooms behind something neat and tidy, these crisp green shrubs make that happen.
I’ve shaped them in round balls, squared hedges—you name it. They’re incredibly versatile, like the plant version of that friend who shows up early to help you clean before a party.
Their best features include:
- Stay green all year.
- Easy to shape or leave alone, they’ll still behave.
- Low mess, high style.
Just don’t plant them too close to wet areas—they don’t love soggy feet.
11. Papyrus – The Unexpected Centerpiece
Ever seen a plant and thought, “What is that mysterious, elegant creature?” That was me and Papyrus.
It has this tall, upright nature with these umbrella-like tufts that look alien in the best way. Think a reed that went to finishing school.
I use Papyrus near the back edge of my pool space where I have a little pond feature. Paired with some rocks and pebbles, it literally transforms the space into something that looks way more expensive than it actually is.
And bonus: it LOVES water, so if you’ve got a splash zone or water-loving soil, this baby thrives.
Why it might be your new favorite:
- Dramatic vertical lines draw the eye upward.
- Unique texture—nobody else on the block has it.
- Needs moisture, so pool splash is welcome.
It’s the plant that says, “Oh this old thing? I just grow gorgeously while being hydrated daily.”
12. Cordyline (Ti Plant) – Style Icon in Plant Form
Anyone else obsessed with dark purples and hot pinks in the garden? Because Cordyline, also known as Ti Plant, just gets it.
This tropical stunner looks like it walked straight out of a fashion blog. Long, narrow, burgundy or hot pink leaves that catch light and wind like they’re auditioning for a commercial.
If your backyard leans a little modern-glam, or you like an exotic edge, plant a few of these in clean black pots and watch the space just light up.
Here’s why they rock:
- Insane color without a single flower.
- Work well in pots or straight in the ground.
- Practically zero shedding, so your skimmer can retire early.
I always get compliments on my Ti Plants. More than on my cooking. Seriously.
13. Mexican Feather Grass – The Soft-Moody One
Want to add movement? You need grass. Not your boring lawn kind, though—Mexican Feather Grass brings that soft, poetic sway.
It has these fine, delicate blades that shimmer when the wind blows. I watched my kids slow down just to wave their hands through it—which is wild, because they normally ignore my landscaping entirely.
It mixes beautifully around rocks, pavement, and even with hotter desert-style plants like agave or yucca. Just don’t plant it too close to chlorinated splash zones—it prefers drier roots.
Why you’ll love it:
- Whispery, calming vibes that make your pool feel spa-like.
- Tolerates heat and drought like a champ.
- Doesn’t drop hefty leaves or petals—so, minimal clean-up.
And hey, if you call your backyard your “zen space,” this one’s pretty much essential.
14. Oleander – The Pretty Rebel
Let me be upfront. Oleander is gorgeous… and a little dangerous. It produces big clusters of pink, white, or red flowers that scream “look at me!” while keeping a dark little secret: it’s toxic if ingested.
But here’s why I still plant it along my back fence—it’s absolutely drop-dead easy to care for.
It thrives in heat, doesn’t care if you forget to water it occasionally, and gives you basically year-round blooms. Think of it like the plant version of a movie villain—stunning, powerful, and just slightly lethal.
Why you might still want it near the pool:
- Handles heat like a champion.
- Flowers nonstop.
- Works well as a privacy screen when planted in a row.
Just plant it where pets and kids can’t snack on it. And maybe don’t stick it next to your herb garden, unless you’re feeling very dramatic.
15. Fountain Grass – Because Pools Love a Little Sway
You ever watch something move in the wind and instantly feel your stress level drop? That’s Fountain Grass for you.
With fluffy bottlebrush-like plumes and graceful arching leaves, it brings the movement your pool area desperately needs—without asking you to lift a finger.
I love clustering a few of these behind lounge chairs or at the base of taller plants. Plus, their seed heads glow in the late-day sun, which makes golden hour even more ridiculous near the water.
Why they’re a go-to:
- Adds instant texture and flow.
- Low water needs.
- Very little mess or leaf drop.
And honestly, they pair well with literally anything. Kind of like the white sneaker of garden design.
16. Echeveria – The Tiny Living Sculptures
Got space between pavers? A cute rock garden near the pool? Or maybe a spot on your outdoor bar that needs a little love? Enter Echeveria, those adorable rosette-shaped succulents you see all over Instagram.
These little guys pull their weight in the looks department. With colors ranging from icy blue to blush pink and silver-green, they make the most boring corners feel “styled.”
They don’t love being soaked, so place them where splashing is minimal. But give them some sun and well-draining soil, and they’ll just chill there looking perfect.
Why they work poolside:
- Compact and great in containers or between stones.
- Ultra-low maintenance (you can’t over-love them).
- Bring modern flair in tiny doses.
Honestly, I pop them into driftwood pieces or funky planters, and people always ask where I got them.
17. Banana Plant – The Lush Show-off That Doubles as Shade
You want jungle vibes? Like, full-on tropical forest exploding around your pool? Then you need a Banana Plant.
These giants grow fast and tall, with ginormous leaves that can give even the brightest sun a run for its money. Plant one or two in the corner of your pool zone, and suddenly it’s Bora Bora in your backyard.
They love heat, humidity, and a good soaking. They also provide actual, honest-to-goodness shade, which has saved me from turning lobster-red more times than I care to admit.
Why I always recommend them:
- Rapid growth = instant impact.
- Tropical flavor for days.
- Some varieties may actually fruit (no promises, though).
Just don’t put them directly next to windy areas—their giant leaves can get shredded faster than a receipt in a tax audit.
18. Yucca – The Edgy Minimalist’s Dream
Some people love a pool surrounded by lush foliage. Others want an edgy, drought-tolerant, modern look. If you’re in the second group, Yucca is your soulmate plant.
With spiky, sword-like leaves, yuccas belong in a design magazine. Give them some gravel, stone, or even a big statement pot, and they’ll reward you by looking like a million bucks with zero effort.
If you live somewhere hot and dry, they’re practically begging you to plant them.
Why they belong in cool, minimalist poolscapes:
- Highly drought-tolerant.
- Modern, clean lines.
- Can handle blazing sun like a champ.
I keep one in a black ceramic planter with white gravel under it, and it might be the coolest thing in my entire backyard. Including me.
19. Jasmine – The Unsuspecting Scene-Stealer
It’s evening. The pool lights are on. You’ve got a drink in hand. And then—it hits you. That ridiculously good fragrance? Yep, it’s Jasmine.
This climbing beauty doesn’t just look good, it smells incredible. Train it on a trellis, let it climb a wall behind the pool, or even grow it on fencing and it’ll reward you with soft white blooms and a perfume that’s basically bottled serenity.
I plant jasmine near close seating areas. Because if you’re going to relax by the pool, you might as well be wrapped in the scent of dreams.
Why jasmine might be your new obsession:
- Glorious fragrance—especially at night.
- Easy to train, prune, and keep tidy.
- Blooms repeat if cared for properly.
But be warned: once you smell it, you’ll never want to sit somewhere else again.
20. Lavender – Stress? Never Heard of It.
Want to feel like you’re swimming in the South of France? That’s what Lavender brings to the party.
Aside from smelling like a literal day spa, lavender gives you soft purple flowers, silvery foliage, and serious calming energy. Bonus: it repels mosquitoes—so it’s basically your backyard’s security guard.
I plant it in low rows along pathways or near sunny edges of planters. It thrives in poor soil, hates extra watering, and asks for almost nothing in return.
Why it’s a poolside MVP:
- Incredible fragrance and soft tones.
- Repels bugs (finally, something that works).
- Loves full sun and dry conditions.
Also, it makes you look like you know what you’re doing in the garden—without you actually needing to.
21. Rosemary – Your Pool’s Edible Border
Last but not least, the one plant I always say belongs near the pool: Rosemary. It’s practical, lovely, and smells fantastic every time you brush past it.
It grows in upright or cascading forms, so whether you want a sleek hedge or something spilling over a stone wall, rosemary gets the job done. It can go from garden to grill in five seconds flat, and it’ll keep looking clean and neat the whole time.
Oh, and it’s another mosquito repellent. So if you’re counting, that’s two plants on this list doing double-duty as pest control.
Why I ALWAYS use rosemary around pool edges:
- Evergreen, tidy, and delicious.
- Smells amazing.
- Thrives in dry, sunny, low-fuss spots.
And don’t even get me started on how amazing it tastes with grilled chicken or in a gin cocktail.
So, Which Plants Will Join Your Pool Party?
Look, whether you lean tropical, modern, boho, or total-redo-of-the-’90s-pool-deck, there’s a plant (or 21) out there with your name on it.
Decorating around the pool isn’t just about plants—it’s about creating an atmosphere. A vibe. That magic little moment when you glance out the kitchen window and think, “Dang, that looks good.”
Want calm and serene? Go lavender, jasmine, and Mexican feather grass.
Craving bold and dramatic? Try banana plant, elephant ears, and hibiscus.
Minimalist desert feel? Nothing tops agave, yucca, and fountain grass.
Whatever your style, pick plants that make you feel something. And don’t be afraid to mix textures, colors, and heights. Your pool deserves more than just chlorinated water—it deserves a lush, head-turning, conversation-starting backdrop.
Now grab your shovel (or, let’s be honest, your iced drink and garden center loyalty card), and start planting the backyard of your dreams.
Just don’t forget the sunscreen. You’ll be spending a lot more time out there.
