Put simply, border plants are shrubs or flowers you plant along the edges of flower beds, walkways, fences, driveways, or other landscape features to define spaces, create structure, and add visual appeal. These plants can be small, like creeping ground covers, or larger shrubs that form living hedges or natural barriers.
5 types of border plants and how to care for them
1. Hydrangeas
Hydrangeas thrive in moderate climates and partial shade, making them ideal border plants for the Northeast, Midwest, and Pacific Northwest states.
Hydrangeas are known for their large, showy blooms in shades of blue, pink, purple, and white. Interestingly, the color of some hydrangea species can change depending on soil acidity. For example, their flowers turn blue in acidic soil and pink in alkaline soil.
Plant them in a location with morning sun, afternoon shade, and well-drained, nutrient-rich soil.
Since hydrangeas love moisture, they need additional deep watering during dry spells.
2. Lily of the Nile (Agapanthus)
The lily of the Nile is native to South Africa and grows well in warm regions like California, the Southeastern U.S., Texas, and Arizona. This plant’s flowers usually come in rich blue, purple, or white hues. They form lush clusters on top of tall stems, giving them a striking appearance. The best time to plant the lily of the Nile is in spring after the last frost.
The lily of the Nile looks gorgeous along driveways, garden paths, or near patios. Its vertical lines add height and elegance, making it a great choice for more formal, classic designs. Additionally, its tall, upright blooms contrast beautifully with lower-growing border plants.
3. Holly (Ilex)
The holly is native to Europe, North America, and Asia and ideal for most regions in the U.S. Although it’s well known for its glossy green leaves and bright red berries, this border plant might also feature white or yellow edges, adding extra decorative appeal.
These plants require regular watering and should be pruned in late winter or early spring to add shape and control their size.
4. Lilac (Syringa vulgaris)
The lilac, or Syringa vulgaris, is native to the Balkan Peninsula in Southeast Europe and thrives in cooler climates. Its beautiful spring blooms look their best after a cold winter, which is essential for bud formation.
Lilacs are famous for their pastel shades—lavender, pink, blue, and white—as well as vivid deep purple blooms. They’re also highly prized for their rich, sweet fragrance. Lilac trees attract butterflies and other pollinators. As a bonus, their flowers are excellent for bouquets.
They need at least six hours of sunlight a day and well-drained, slightly alkaline soil. Prune them immediately after flowering to maintain the shape and encourage abundant blooms the following year.
5. Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia)
The black-eyed Susan is native to North America and adapts to a wide range of climates but prefers sunny locations with well-drained soil. These cheerful flowers resemble daisies, featuring golden-yellow petals with dark brown or nearly black centers.
Once established, black-eyed Susans are low-maintenance and drought-tolerant. They thrive in full sun and bloom from midsummer to early fall.
These border plants are also deer-resistant as they do attract butterflies and other pollinators. Thanks to their long blooming period and easy care requirements, black-eyed Susans are popular with both beginners and experienced gardeners alike.
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