Your home is begging for these patio plants

Patio plants can make your outdoor space feel more inviting and welcoming. Whether you’re dreaming of a sophisticated entertaining area, a serene reading nook, a family-friendly zone, or a bird and butterfly haven, the right plants can make it happen.

The 11 best plants to add to your patio

Celosia

Celosia is a bold and dramatic choice for your patio. Its striking, plume-like flowers come in a vibrant range of colours, adding a pop of personality to any outdoor space.
Pair with: Petunias for a cascading explosion, or combine with Coleus for a striking contrast of textures.

Close-up of a vibrant yellow Celosia plant.

Gaura lindheimeri

With its graceful, dancing blooms, Gaura lindheimeri brings a touch of whimsy to your patio. Perfect for a relaxed, cottage-garden style, it’s a low-maintenance beauty that attracts butterflies.
Pair with: Lavender for a fragrant and aromatic combination, or mix with Verbena for a vibrant summer display.

A close-up of a pink Gaura lindheimeri plant

Dianthus

Dianthus, or pinks, are classic patio plants known for their sweet fragrance and delicate blooms. They come in a variety of hues and are ideal for adding a touch of romance to your outdoor space.
Pair with: Bold-coloured Geraniums for a vibrant look.

Cluster of bright pink and white Dianthus flowers.

Mimulus

Mimulus, or monkey flower, is a cheerful and quirky addition to your patio. Its vivid, spotted blooms will bring a smile to your face. Perfect for shady spots.
Pair with: Ferns for a lush, tropical feel, or combine with Hostas for a classic shade garden look.

A close-up of a bright yellow Mimulus flower

New Guinea Impatiens

New Guinea Impatiens are vibrant and vigorous, making them ideal for adding a tropical feel to your patio. Their large, showy flowers come in a dazzling array of shades.
Pair with: Bromeliads for a textured contrast.

A cluster of pink New Guinea Impatiens.

Coleus

Coleus is all about foliage! Its striking leaves come in a multitude of patterns and shades, making it a standout choice for your patio. Perfect for adding texture and interest. 
Pair with: Croton for a vibrant, tropical mix.

Deep maroon and green variegated Coleus patio plant.

Impatiens

Impatiens are classic patio plants loved for their reliable blooms and ability to thrive in the shade. They come in a range of colours and are perfect for creating a lush display.
Pair with: Ferns for a classic shade garden combination, or combine with Begonias for a softer look.

A close-up of a pink impatiens flower

Begonia

Begonias offer a wide range of options for your patio, from trailing varieties to upright, flowering plants. Their delicate blooms and attractive foliage make them a versatile choice.

Close-up of a bright red begonia flower against a green leafy background.

Gaillardia

Gaillardia is a cheerful, daisy-like flower that brings a sunny disposition to your patio. Its boldness and long-lasting blooms make it a favourite for summer containers.
Pair with: Cosmos for a romantic, cottage-garden feel.

Vibrant red and yellow Gaillardia flower with green centre.

Patio plant positioning

Sun or shade, low-maintenance or high-drama—there’s a plant perfect for your patio.
The first thing to figure out is where your patio gets its sunshine fix. Is it a sun-soaked oasis, a shady sanctuary, or somewhere in between? This matters because plants are picky about their tanning sessions.

Sun-worshippers: If your patio is a hot spot, these plants will thrive: Alyssum, celosia, cosmos, dianthus, marigold, nasturtium, petunia, portulaca, salvia, sunflower, zinnia, rudbeckia, verbena, arctotis, felicia, gaura, gazania, lavender, and pelargonium. 

Morning light lovers: These plants prefer a gentle morning glow: Abutilon, aquilegia, fuchsia, lobelia, and schizanthus.

Shade seekers: If your patio is a shady spot, there are still plenty of gorgeous options: New Guinea impatiens, begonia, coleus, impatiens, fuchsia, lobelia, mimulus, schizanthus, and torenia. For those super shady areas, stick to begonia, coleus, and impatiens.

Bonus tips: Use trailing plants to soften the edges, such as Helichrysum petiolare, lobelia, nasturtium, cascading petunia, and verbena.

Find your plant’s perfect match

After picking up your patio plants from your local GCA garden centre, decide on the container you’re going to use. They certainly do come in all shapes and sizes. Choosing plant containers is not just about looks; they must be the right size and have adequate drainage for successful plant growth, in addition to being well-designed.

Your container choice sets the tone for your patio.
The right pots can elevate your patio plants, creating a stylish and inviting outdoor space. When planting up containers or pots, it’s important to use a good potting soil with water-saving granules, or a little coir to ensure your containers are easier to maintain, with less frequent watering required. Water saving tip: Water your pot plants with recycled water from washing fruit & vegetables.

Lastly, consider their size and position of your pot plants. Big containers filled with plants are more visually appealing and require less frequent watering than small pots. It’s better to group containers instead of scattering them around. Place larger containers at the back and smaller ones in the front. When planting in a medium or large container, position taller plants in the centre and shorter ones around the edges based on their ultimate height.

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