There’s something magical about relaxing by the pool on a warm afternoon, the air filled with the scent of greenery and the sight of vibrant blooms.
With the right plants, your pool area can feel like a private resort, full of color, texture, and that extra bit of charm that makes you linger outside.
You’ll enjoy the shade, privacy, and beauty they bring while also creating a more inviting space for family and friends. Some of these plants can handle a splash of pool water, thrive in strong sun, and keep looking stunning even in the hottest days.
Pick the ones that suit your space and watch your backyard transform into a lush escape you’ll never want to leave.
#1 Martha Washington Geraniums
These geraniums put on a show with deep purple flowers that can bloom from spring well into fall. They handle splashes from the pool without much trouble, which makes them a low-stress choice.
Plant them in containers or along the pool edge where you can enjoy their vivid color up close. Give them full sun and water regularly to keep the blooms coming. A light trim after flowering will encourage fresh growth.
#2 Ornamental Sweet Potato Vine
This vine’s leaves range from bright chartreuse to deep purple, bringing a bold contrast to your poolside planting. It grows quickly, filling in spaces and creating a lush, semi-tropical look.
Use it in hanging baskets or let it spill over raised beds for a flowing effect. Keep the soil evenly moist and give it plenty of sun for the best color. You can pinch back stems to keep the shape neat.
#3 Creeping Jenny
Creeping Jenny’s trailing stems of lime-green leaves add a bright, fresh tone that softens hard pool edges. In summer, small yellow blooms add extra charm.
It works beautifully as groundcover or draped over container sides. Plant it where it gets morning sun and afternoon shade to keep leaves vibrant. Water regularly during hot spells to prevent wilting.
#4 Palms
Palms bring instant tropical flair, and their arching fronds provide welcome shade during hot afternoons. Tall varieties can frame your pool, while smaller ones can be placed in large pots for flexibility.
Choose a type suited to your climate and give it a sunny location. Water deeply but infrequently so the roots grow strong. A layer of mulch will help keep soil moisture steady.
#5 Jade
Jade plants are tough and easygoing, with thick green leaves that store water. Their sculptural shape looks striking in modern poolside designs.
Place them in pots where they can get full sun and let the soil dry completely before watering. They’re slow growers, so they won’t take over the space. A yearly dose of fertilizer will keep them looking their best.
#6 Fortnight Lily
This plant delights with white blooms that appear every couple of weeks, almost year-round. Its tall, slender leaves stay green even in strong sun.
Fortnight lilies grow well in garden beds or large pots by the pool. Plant them in well-drained soil and water when the top layer dries out. Remove spent blooms to keep the plant tidy and encourage more flowers.
#7 Kangaroo Paw
Kangaroo Paw stands out with velvety flowers in gold, pink, or purple that resemble the shape of its namesake. It loves full sun and will bloom generously with regular watering.
Plant it in well-draining soil and give it space to grow to about three feet tall. Trim back old stems after flowering to keep it healthy. This is a great choice if you want both height and bold color.
#8 Agave
Agave makes a strong statement with its symmetrical rosette of thick, spiny leaves. It thrives in full sun and requires very little water once established.
Use it as a focal point and surround it with smaller succulents for contrast. Plant in gritty soil for proper drainage and wear gloves when handling. It’s almost maintenance-free, making it perfect for a low-effort poolside accent.
#9 Angels Trumpets
Large, pendulous blooms in white or pastel shades give Angel’s Trumpets a romantic feel. Their fragrance carries easily, especially in the evening.
Plant them in a sunny spot with some afternoon shade and rich, well-draining soil. Water regularly during the growing season for the best display. Prune lightly to shape and remove old blooms.
#10 Vines
Vines can create a living screen around your pool, adding both privacy and beauty. Choose fast-growing types like jasmine or bougainvillea for quick coverage.
Train them up a trellis, pergola, or fence where they can get plenty of sun. Water deeply when the topsoil feels dry. Light pruning will keep them from becoming unruly.
#11 Hawaiian Hibiscus
Hibiscus flowers are big, bold, and available in a rainbow of colors that pop against green foliage. They thrive in the heat and love sunny spots.
Plant them in rich soil and water regularly to keep the blooms coming. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage new ones. With a little care, they can flower almost year-round in warm climates.
#12 Echeveria
Echeverias are compact succulents with rosettes in shades of green, blue, or even pink. They’re perfect for sunny, dry spots by the pool.
Use them in pots, rock gardens, or as edging plants. Let the soil dry completely between waterings and protect them from heavy rain. Their low profile makes them easy to tuck into small spaces.
#13 Birds of Paradise
This plant’s striking orange and blue flowers resemble tropical birds in flight. It grows best in full sun and makes an impressive backdrop near the pool.
Plant in well-drained soil and water regularly during the growing season. Cut back old leaves to keep it looking tidy. In warm climates, it can bloom several times a year.
#14 Philodendron
Philodendrons bring lush greenery with their large, glossy leaves that thrive in partial shade. They add a cool, calming vibe to sunny decks.
Plant them in well-draining soil and water when the top inch is dry. They appreciate a regular misting in hot weather. Large pots will keep them contained and easy to move if needed.
#15 Banana Tree
Banana trees make a dramatic statement with their oversized leaves and fast growth. They provide shade and a real tropical atmosphere.
Plant them in rich, moist soil where they’ll get plenty of sun. Water often in summer to keep the foliage lush. Cut away old leaves to make room for fresh growth.