Balcony plants are the secret to transforming even the smallest outdoor space into a vibrant retreat. With the right choices, you can enjoy a mix of flowers, foliage, and even herbs that make your balcony come alive.
Many of these plants thrive in containers, need only simple care, and reward you with colors, fragrance, or fresh flavors. Some attract butterflies and hummingbirds, while others create soothing greenery.
Having them right outside your door means you can enjoy beauty without leaving home. Let’s explore 14 of the best balcony plants you can start growing today.
#1 English Lavender
English Lavender brings both beauty and fragrance to a sunny balcony. Its purple blooms release a calming scent that makes mornings or evenings outdoors more relaxing.
Place it in well-drained soil and make sure it gets at least six hours of sunlight each day. Water sparingly, as lavender doesn’t like soggy roots.
Trim back after flowering to keep the plant tidy and encourage new growth. Having lavender on your balcony also attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies.
#2 Patio Rose
Patio Roses are compact but still deliver the romance of full-size roses. Their blooms add elegance to balcony railings and fill containers with vibrant color.
They thrive with plenty of sun, ideally six or more hours daily, and appreciate consistent watering. Use a good potting mix and feed them with rose fertilizer to encourage repeat blooming.
Prune spent flowers to extend the blooming season. With care, these roses will brighten your balcony all summer.
#3 Marigold
Marigolds are cheerful flowers that thrive in full sun and hot weather. Their golden, orange, or red blossoms brighten any balcony and create a warm, welcoming vibe. They bloom continuously from summer into autumn if watered regularly.
Pinch off faded blooms to keep flowers coming for longer. They also help deter some common pests, making them a practical addition to balcony gardens. A simple pot of marigolds adds color and energy right outside your door.
#4 Nasturtiums
Nasturtiums offer both beauty and edibility, making them a versatile choice. Their bright yellow and orange blooms spill elegantly from balcony containers or hanging baskets. These flowers release a light, pleasant fragrance that lifts the mood.
Give them sun and regular water, and they will reward you with abundant blooms. You can also enjoy the leaves and flowers in salads for a peppery taste. They grow quickly, so you’ll see results in just a few weeks.
#5 Begonia
Begonias provide nonstop blooms through the summer when grown with care. They thrive in partial shade, making them perfect if your balcony doesn’t get full sun all day. Their flowers come in many colors, from soft pinks to deep reds.
Keep the soil evenly moist and feed them regularly for continuous flowering. Hanging baskets filled with begonias create a dramatic display. With their lush look, they bring elegance even to small spaces.
#6 Fuchsia
Fuchsias are a showy option with their distinctive, drooping blooms in shades of pink, purple, and red. They attract hummingbirds, adding even more life to your balcony.
Plant them in fertile, well-draining soil and feed often for the best flowering. Fuchsias prefer partial shade and cooler conditions, so they suit balconies that don’t get harsh afternoon sun.
Water consistently to keep the soil moist but not soggy. With their cascade of blooms, they create a magical, romantic setting.
#7 Lemon Tree
A Lemon Tree on your balcony provides both fragrance and fresh fruit. The blossoms smell delightful, and when cared for, the tree will reward you with juicy lemons. Choose a dwarf variety that’s suitable for container growing.
Place it in full sun and use a large pot with rich, well-drained soil. Water regularly, but avoid waterlogging the roots. Enjoying fresh lemons from your own balcony tree is both practical and satisfying.
#8 Hosta
Hostas are known for their lush, decorative leaves in shades of green, blue, and variegated patterns. They love shady balconies and do best in rich, moist soil. Keep the soil consistently watered, especially during warm weather.
Hostas are low-maintenance, making them easy for beginners. They also produce delicate flowers on tall stalks in the summer. Their foliage adds elegance and texture to container groupings.
#9 Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera is both a practical and attractive succulent for your balcony. Its fleshy green leaves store water, making it drought-tolerant and very low maintenance. Place it in full sun or partial shade and water only when the soil is completely dry.
Aloe also has soothing gel inside its leaves, useful for minor burns or skin care. Grow it in terracotta pots to keep the soil dry and airy. With its spiky form, Aloe adds a bold, sculptural look to your space.
#10 Boston Fern
Boston Ferns bring soft greenery that looks especially beautiful in hanging planters. Their feathery fronds cascade down to create a lush, tropical feel. They need humidity and regular watering to thrive, so mist the leaves often.
Keep them in partial shade where they can avoid direct afternoon sun. With care, they stay full and vibrant throughout the growing season. A Boston Fern instantly freshens up balcony corners.
#11 Staghorn Fern
Staghorn Ferns are unique plants with antler-shaped fronds that stand out in any collection. They can be grown mounted on wooden boards or in hanging baskets. Outdoors, they prefer shaded areas with indirect light.
Keep them moist by soaking or misting regularly, as they love humidity. Their unusual shape makes them a conversation piece on your balcony. They pair beautifully with other tropical plants for an exotic look.
#12 Rosemary
Rosemary is a hardy herb that grows happily in balcony containers. It loves full sun and well-drained soil, making it perfect for warm spots. Water sparingly, as rosemary prefers slightly dry conditions.
Snip sprigs often to use in cooking, which also encourages bushier growth. The scent of rosemary leaves adds freshness to your outdoor space. It’s both a decorative and functional addition for your balcony garden.
#13 Jade Plant
Jade Plants are succulents with thick, rounded leaves that symbolize good luck and prosperity. They thrive in sunny balconies but also tolerate partial shade. Water them only when the soil is dry, as overwatering can cause root rot.
Their compact size makes them ideal for small containers. In the right conditions, they may even produce small white or pink flowers. Their glossy leaves bring a cheerful, tidy look to your balcony.
#14 Mint
Mint is a fast-growing herb that adapts easily to container life. It enjoys regular watering and partial to full sun. Grow it in its own pot, as it can spread quickly and take over other plants.
Fresh mint leaves are perfect for teas, desserts, and refreshing summer drinks. Harvest often to keep the plant producing new growth. A pot of mint adds both fragrance and flavor to your balcony garden.