Hardy outdoor potted plants

When the sun shows us some warmth, it’s the perfect time to give our outdoor alfresco areas a fresh update. Personally, I love to re-pot my existing plants or add a few new ones to liven things up. I tend to focus on hardy plants that can tolerate the Aussie heat but also survive through those colder months. If you’re looking to spruce up your outdoor space, here are some plants I’ve found work well in most environments:

# Geranium

Geraniums are vibrant and colourful, making them an ideal addition to any outdoor area. They thrive in hot climates and don’t require much maintenance, which is perfect if you’re busy. You can find them in shades of red, pink, purple, and white, and they’ll add a lovely pop of colour to your space. Bonus – they’ll flower throughout spring and summer, giving your alfresco area that bright, cheery feel.

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# Lavender

Lavender is one of my absolute favourites. Not only does it look beautiful, but it also gives off that soothing fragrance that instantly makes the space feel calming. It’s great for hot and dry environments, and you’ll find that once established, lavender can survive with minimal water. Plus, it attracts bees, which is great for pollination, and it also has natural insect-repelling properties. Win-win!

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# Citrus trees

If you love the idea of growing your own fruit, citrus trees are a fantastic choice. Lemons, limes, and oranges not only provide delicious produce but also add a fresh, Mediterranean feel to your space. They do well in full sun, and as long as they’re protected from frost in the winter, they’ll thrive. I’m personally going to add a citrus tree to my back area. I’ve just remembered I have the perfect white pot sitting in my garage not being used—looks like a trip to Bunnings is on the cards today!

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# Succulents

Succulents are hardy, drought-tolerant plants that come in a range of interesting shapes and sizes. They’re perfect for the hot Aussie climate because they store water in their leaves, meaning they can withstand long periods of drought. Plus, they’re super easy to care for – all they need is sunlight and minimal watering. A few strategically placed succulents in pots or a planter box can add that touch of low-maintenance greenery to your alfresco area.

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# Bougainvillea

If you want a plant that offers dramatic impact with minimal effort, bougainvillea is the one. This vibrant climber thrives in hot, sunny conditions, making it perfect for Australian gardens. Bougainvillea can be grown in pots or trained along a trellis to create a stunning display of colour that lasts all through the warmer months. It’s a great choice if you want to cover up fences or add privacy to your alfresco space.

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# Mother-In-Law’s Tongue

Mother-In-Law’s Tongue, also known as the snake plant, is a tough, versatile plant that can survive in a variety of conditions. It’s known for its striking upright leaves and ability to thrive in both low and bright light, making it an ideal option for both indoor and outdoor settings. It’s also super low-maintenance – just an occasional watering, and it’ll keep growing!

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# Agave

Agave plants are another fantastic option for the heat. These spiky succulents love full sun and need very little water, making them perfect for the Australian climate. Agave can also handle colder temperatures, so they’ll survive year-round. They look great when used as a feature plant in large pots, adding a sculptural, modern feel to any outdoor space.

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# Herbs

For those who love cooking, adding herbs to your outdoor area is a must! Not only do they look lovely in pots, but you’ll also have fresh ingredients on hand whenever you need them. Some hardy options like rosemary, thyme, and sage are incredibly easy to grow and do well in both hot and cooler months. Herbs can also help deter pests, making them functional as well as decorative.

There’s something so satisfying about breathing new life into an outdoor space. Whether you’re re-potting existing plants or adding some new ones, these hardy varieties will keep your alfresco area looking lush and inviting all year round. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’m off to Bunnings to pick up a citrus tree for my back area—time to make use of that perfect white pot I’ve had tucked away.

Images: Geranium / Lavender / Citrus / Succulents / Bougainvillea / Mother-in-law’s Tongue / Agave / Herbs

♥ K.