Underrated Outdoor Plants That Deserve Your Attention
Landscaping with Underrated Gems
When it comes to gardening, many people stick to the classic and familiar plants. However, there are countless underrated outdoor plants that offer unique beauty, low maintenance, and wildlife benefits. Here are some hidden gems to consider for your garden:
Sedum Stonecrop: The Low-Maintenance Charmer
Sedum stonecrop, also known as “stone crop flowers,” is a diverse group with over 400 varieties. These plants are renowned for their ease of care and come in a wide range of colors, shapes, and sizes. They provide visual interest throughout the year, with attractive blooms in shades of yellow and purple.
Russian Sage: The Drought-Tolerant Beauty
For dry areas, Russian sage is an ideal choice. This plant can withstand extreme drought conditions, making it a perfect addition to water-wise landscapes. Its aromatic and silvery-gray foliage creates an elegant backdrop, while its tall spikes of lavender-blue flowers sway gracefully in the breeze.
Gazania: The Sun-Loving Daisy
Gazania, also known as Treasure Flowers, features daisy-like blooms that thrive in sunny locations. These perennials are low-maintenance and produce an abundance of stunning flowers that add a touch of vibrancy to any garden. Gazanias are perfect for filling in bare spots in your landscape, as they are both hardy and visually appealing.
Coleus: The Colorful Foliage Enhancer
If you’re looking for a splash of color in your garden, consider coleus plants. These annuals boast multicolored leaves with intricate patterns and textures. They add a striking contrast to garden beds and containers, providing visual interest even when not in bloom. Coleus prefers shaded areas and requires regular watering.
Passionflower: The Butterfly and Hummingbird Magnet
Passionflower is a unique plant that attracts butterflies and hummingbirds with its beautiful purple flowers. It grows vigorously, so it may require regular pruning. This plant thrives in full sun but can also tolerate partial shade. Its vines can climb trellises or walls, adding a touch of elegance to your outdoor space.
Salvia Nemorosa: The Pollinator’s Delight
Salvia nemorosa, also known as meadow sage, is a perennial that produces gorgeous blooms in shades of blue, purple, pink, or white. It prefers full sun and well-drained soil, and its tall spikes of densely packed flowers are a magnet for bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
St. John’s Wort: The Native Alternative
St. John’s wort is a medium-sized shrub with thin green leaves and bright yellow blooms. This native plant is a great alternative to the overused butterfly bush, as it supports a wider variety of butterflies and moths. St. John’s wort can reach a height and width of about 4 feet and is known for its medicinal properties.
Pencil Cactus: The Minimalist’s Dream
Pencil cactus is an easy-care indoor or outdoor plant that requires minimal watering. It can grow up to 30 feet tall outdoors but can be kept at a more manageable size in containers. Pencil cactus adds a unique and sculptural element to any space, and its low-maintenance nature makes it ideal for busy gardeners.
Red Velvet Yarrow: The Underrated Landscape Enhancer
Yarrow is often overlooked as a “junk weed,” but the Red Velvet variety proves otherwise with its vibrant red blooms. This plant spreads easily but can also be controlled in containers. Red Velvet Yarrow is drought-tolerant and requires minimal care, making it a great choice for those who want a low-maintenance addition to their garden.
Conclusion
These underrated outdoor plants offer a range of benefits, from low maintenance and drought tolerance to vibrant blooms that attract wildlife. By incorporating these hidden gems into your landscape, you can create a unique and eye-catching garden that will bring joy for years to come.