Imagine stepping out onto your patio or balcony and being greeted by a burst of lush greenery cascading from your hanging baskets. The vibrant colors and fresh foliage create a calming and welcoming atmosphere, making you feel instantly connected to nature.
As a plant enthusiast, I’ve always been drawn to hanging baskets. They not only add beauty to any space but also maximize vertical gardening potential. And when it comes to choosing plants for my hanging baskets, I always opt for evergreen varieties.
Evergreen plants are those that retain their leaves and remain green throughout the year, providing a constant source of visual appeal. They bring life and vibrancy to your outdoor space, even during the colder months when other plants may be dormant.
In this article, I want to share with you my top picks for evergreen plants that are perfect for hanging baskets. These plants are not only easy to care for but also offer a wide range of colors, textures, and growth habits, allowing you to create stunning displays that will impress both family and friends.
Key Takeaways:
- Choosing evergreen plants for hanging baskets ensures year-round greenery and beauty.
- Evergreen plants are low maintenance and easy to grow.
- Consider the sun exposure and hardiness zones in your area when selecting plants.
- My top picks for evergreen plants include bat-faced cuphea, bearberry, golden creeping jenny, burrow’s tail, wandering jew, rock cress, English ivy, trailing rosemary, and heucherella.
- These plants offer a variety of colors, textures, and growth habits to suit your outdoor decor.
Bat-Faced Cuphea (Cuphea llavea)
This fast-growing evergreen plant from Mexico is perfect for hanging baskets. It has dense branching and lance-shaped leaves that stay green all year long. Bat-Faced Cuphea is an excellent choice for adding vibrant foliage to your outdoor decor.
One of the standout features of this plant is its scarlet red flowers with a striking violet purple blotch. These flowers are not only visually appealing but also a favorite of hummingbirds and butterflies, making your hanging baskets a haven for these delightful creatures.
Growing bat-faced cuphea is a breeze, as it is low maintenance and thrives in full sun. It can reach a height of 18 to 30 inches, providing a beautiful cascading effect in your hanging baskets. This plant is hardy in USDA zones 9 to 12, making it suitable for various climates.
Key Features:
- Dense branching and lance-shaped leaves
- Scarlet red flowers with a violet purple blotch
- Attracts hummingbirds and butterflies
- Easy to grow and low maintenance
- Thrives in full sun
- Height: 18 to 30 inches
- Hardy in USDA zones 9 to 12
Bearberry (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi)
Bearberry is a hardy evergreen plant that is perfect for hanging baskets, especially in cold climates. It has glossy, fleshy green leaves that turn orange and red in the fall, adding warmth to your garden or terrace. In the spring, bearberry produces small white lantern-shaped blooms that turn into bright scarlet berries in the fall. These berries are edible and attract birds. Bearberry thrives in full sun and is hardy in USDA zones 2 to 6.
The Beauty of Bearberry
Bearberry, also known as Arctostaphylos uva-ursi, is a versatile evergreen plant that is perfect for hanging baskets. Its glossy, fleshy leaves provide an attractive green backdrop throughout the year, and they transform into vibrant shades of orange and red during the fall season.
“Bearberry is a hardy evergreen plant that is perfect for hanging baskets, especially in cold climates.”
In addition to its foliage, bearberry produces delicate white lantern-shaped blooms in the spring. These flowers add a touch of elegance to your hanging baskets and attract pollinators like bees and butterflies. As summer transitions into fall, the blooms give way to bright scarlet berries that serve as a visual feast for the eyes.
Not only are these berries a sight to behold, but they are also edible and can be enjoyed by both humans and birds alike. Their vibrant color and delicious taste make them a welcome addition to any outdoor space. By planting bearberry in your hanging baskets, you can create a feast for the senses.
Easy Care and Adaptability
Bearberry is a low-maintenance plant that thrives in full sun, making it an excellent choice for outdoor baskets. It is highly adaptable to various soil conditions, including sandy or acidic soils, making it suitable for a wide range of gardeners.
- Glossy, fleshy leaves that turn orange and red in the fall
- Delicate white lantern-shaped blooms in the spring
- Bright scarlet berries in the fall
- Attracts birds and pollinators
- Thrives in full sun, tolerant of various soil conditions
Bearberry is also known for its hardiness, tolerating cold climates with ease. It can withstand temperatures as low as -40°F (-40°C), making it an ideal choice for hanging baskets in colder regions.
Pairing Suggestions
| Complementary Plants for Hanging Baskets | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Impatiens | Provides a burst of color with its vibrant blooms |
| Sedum | Adds texture and interest with its succulent leaves |
| Begonia | Offers a variety of colors and patterns to enhance the display |
| Creeping Thyme | Spreads along the edges of the basket, creating a cascading effect |
Bearberry pairs well with a range of plants that complement its foliage and berries. Consider planting it alongside impatiens for a burst of color, sedum for added texture, begonia for a variety of patterns, or creeping thyme for a cascading effect. These combinations will create stunning hanging baskets that will be the envy of your neighbors.
Golden Creeping Jenny (Lysimachianummularia ‘Aurea’)
Golden creeping jenny is a cold-hardy trailing perennial that is perfect for hanging baskets. It has bright green heart-shaped leaves that cascade on thin drooping branches, adding a showy quality to your baskets. In the summer, golden creeping jenny produces bright golden yellow bell-shaped flowers that descend from above like vibrant smiles. This plant thrives in full sun or partial shade and is hardy in USDA zones 3 to 9.
One of the standout choices for hanging basket evergreen plants is the Golden Creeping Jenny, scientifically known as Lysimachianummularia ‘Aurea’. With its vibrant and cascading bright green heart-shaped leaves, this plant adds a showstopping quality to any hanging basket. As its name implies, the Golden Creeping Jenny blooms bright golden yellow bell-shaped flowers during the summer, creating an eye-catching contrast against its lush foliage. Not only does it thrive in full sun or partial shade, but it is also cold-hardy, making it a versatile choice for various climates. This evergreen perennial is hardy in USDA zones 3 to 9.
Key Features:
- Bright green heart-shaped leaves
- Thin drooping branches
- Bright golden yellow bell-shaped flowers
- Thrives in full sun or partial shade
- Cold-hardy in USDA zones 3 to 9
Plant Care Tips:
- Choose a hanging basket with good drainage.
- Plant the Golden Creeping Jenny in well-draining soil.
- Water regularly, keeping the soil evenly moist.
- Provide full sun or partial shade for optimal growth.
- Prune back any excessive growth to maintain its shape.
Recommended Companion Plants:
| Companion Plants | Planting Tips |
|---|---|
| Trailing Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) | Thrives in full sun; well-draining soil required; hardy in USDA zones 8 to 10 |
| Rock Cress (Aubretia deltoidea) | Cold-hardy in USDA zones 4 to 8; thrives in full sun |
| Burrow’s Tail (Sedum morganianum) | Succulent; perfect for hot climates; hardy in USDA zones 10 to 11 |
Burrow’s Tail (Sedum morganianum)
In this section, I will introduce you to one of my favorite evergreen plants for hanging baskets – Burrow’s Tail, also known as Sedum morganianum. Native to Mexico, this succulent plant features trailing branches adorned with plump leaves that resemble sweets or the tail of a mammal. The foliage has a soft texture and displays a beautiful bright greenish-blue color.
During the summer, Burrow’s Tail produces eye-catching fleshy red star-shaped flowers, adding a touch of vibrancy to your hanging baskets. This plant is particularly well-suited for hot climates and thrives when placed in full sun. However, it’s important to note that in colder climates, Burrow’s Tail should be brought indoors to protect it from the frost.
If you’re looking for an evergreen plant that can withstand the heat and bring some visual interest to your hanging baskets, Burrow’s Tail is an excellent choice. Its unique appearance and low-maintenance nature make it a popular option among gardening enthusiasts. This plant is hardy in USDA zones 10 to 11, ensuring its resilience in the appropriate regions.
Wandering Jew (Tradescantia zebrina)
The Wandering Jew, scientifically known as Tradescantia zebrina, is a vibrant and colorful evergreen plant that originates from Mexico. Its soft and trailing branches are adorned with striking stripes of purple, cream, green, and blue, adding a touch of dynamic beauty to your hanging baskets.
The leaves of the Wandering Jew change color throughout the year, creating an ever-changing display of hues that adds an element of surprise to your outdoor space. This constant transformation makes it an eye-catching addition to any hanging basket.
Aside from its visually appealing foliage, the Wandering Jew also produces small three-petaled flowers sporadically throughout the year. These delicate blooms further enhance the charm of this evergreen plant.
One of the advantages of growing the Wandering Jew is its ease of care. It is a low-maintenance plant that can thrive in a variety of conditions. Whether your hanging basket is placed in full sun or partial shade, the Wandering Jew will adapt and flourish.
This evergreen plant is hardy in USDA zones 9 to 12, making it suitable for outdoor baskets in many regions. With its vibrant colors, ever-changing foliage, and ease of care, the Wandering Jew is undoubtedly one of the best plants for hanging baskets.
Rock Cress (Aubretia deltoidea)
Rock cress, also known as Aubretia, is a trailing perennial that is perfect for hanging baskets in cold regions. It has tiny, dense leaves that stay green all year round, providing a fine texture to your baskets. In mid-spring, rock cress turns bright magenta purple as it is covered in numerous purple flowers. This plant thrives in full sun and is hardy in USDA zones 4 to 8.
Why Choose Rock Cress for Hanging Baskets?
- Evergreen foliage: Rock cress maintains its lush green color throughout the year, ensuring your hanging baskets look vibrant.
- Trailing habit: The trailing nature of rock cress creates an elegant cascading effect and adds visual interest to your baskets.
- Beautiful flowers: In mid-spring, rock cress bursts into a profusion of vibrant magenta purple flowers, creating a stunning display.
- Low maintenance: Rock cress is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care, making it ideal for busy gardeners.
- Cold hardy: With its hardiness in USDA zones 4 to 8, rock cress can withstand chilly temperatures and thrive even in colder regions.
If you’re looking for an evergreen plant that can add color and texture to your hanging baskets, rock cress is a fantastic choice. Its dense green foliage and dazzling magenta purple flowers create a striking visual impact, enhancing the beauty of your outdoor space. With its cold-hardy nature, rock cress is perfect for those who want to enjoy vibrant hanging baskets year-round.
“Rock cress is a versatile and visually appealing plant that adds a touch of drama to any hanging basket. Its cascading foliage and vibrant flowers provide a stunning display that is sure to impress.”
When planting rock cress in hanging baskets, ensure they are placed in a location that receives full sun. This plant thrives in well-draining soil and can tolerate a wide range of soil types. Allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings to prevent overwatering, as excessive moisture can lead to root rot.
To further enhance the beauty of your rock cress-filled hanging baskets, consider combining them with other evergreen plants such as English ivy or trailing rosemary. The contrasting textures and colors will create a visually captivating arrangement that is sure to be a standout feature in your outdoor space.
| Plant | Features | Hardiness |
|---|---|---|
| Rock Cress (Aubretia deltoidea) | Tiny, dense green foliage; bright magenta purple flowers | USDA zones 4 to 8 |
| Bat-Faced Cuphea (Cuphea llavea) | Lance-shaped leaves; scarlet red flowers with violet purple blotch | USDA zones 9 to 12 |
| Bearberry (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi) | Glossy green leaves turning orange and red; white lantern-shaped blooms turning into scarlet berries | USDA zones 2 to 6 |
| Golden Creeping Jenny (Lysimachianummularia ‘Aurea’) | Bright green heart-shaped leaves; bright golden yellow bell-shaped flowers | USDA zones 3 to 9 |
English Ivy (Hedera helix)
English ivy is one of the best and easiest to care for hanging basket plants. It is an evergreen perennial that has a fast growth rate. English ivy has glossy, green, and sharply oval leaves. There are different varieties available, including those with variegated leaves. English ivy thrives in moist soil and can tolerate full sun or partial shade. It is hardy in USDA zones 4 to 9.
English ivy is a versatile and attractive plant that adds a touch of elegance to any hanging basket. Its vibrant green leaves create a lush and captivating look, making it a popular choice for outdoor baskets. Whether you hang it on your porch, balcony, or garden, English ivy will thrive and bring a sense of natural beauty to your space.
One of the benefits of English ivy is its ability to withstand different weather conditions. It can tolerate both hot and cold temperatures, making it suitable for various climates. Its evergreen nature ensures that your hanging baskets remain visually appealing all year round, even during the winter months when other plants may wither.
English ivy is also an excellent plant for purifying the air and reducing indoor pollution. Its dense foliage helps to filter out harmful toxins, making it ideal for hanging baskets inside your home. Plus, its trailing vines create a cascading effect, adding a touch of elegance and charm to any indoor space.
When caring for English ivy, it’s important to provide proper support for its trailing vines to prevent them from sagging or tangling. Regular watering is necessary to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Additionally, occasional fertilization with a balanced fertilizer will help promote healthy growth and vibrant foliage.
If you’re looking for a low-maintenance and visually stunning evergreen plant for your hanging baskets, English ivy is an excellent choice. Its versatility, attractive foliage, and ability to thrive in different conditions make it a top pick for outdoor baskets. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a beginner, English ivy is sure to bring beauty and elegance to your hanging basket displays.
Trailing Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)
When it comes to choosing the best plants for hanging baskets, trailing rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) is a must-have. This evergreen perennial, native to the Mediterranean, offers both beauty and functionality. Its distinctively scented foliage and delicate pale blue flowers make it a delightful addition to any outdoor space.
Trailing rosemary is not only aesthetically pleasing but also low-maintenance and resilient. It can tolerate drought well, making it an ideal choice for outdoor hanging baskets. Additionally, this plant prefers a sunny spot, allowing it to thrive in various climates. Trailing rosemary is hardy in USDA zones 8 to 10, making it a suitable choice for gardeners in these regions.
If you’re looking to add a touch of Mediterranean charm to your hanging baskets, trailing rosemary is the perfect choice. Its trailing habit creates a graceful cascade of foliage, adding texture and depth to your arrangements. Not to mention, the aromatic scent of rosemary can enrich the surrounding atmosphere.
To care for trailing rosemary in hanging baskets, ensure that the soil is well-drained and water the plant moderately. Trim the plant regularly to maintain its desired shape and size. As an evergreen plant, trailing rosemary will provide greenery and visual appeal to your baskets all year round.
With trailing rosemary in your hanging baskets, you can enjoy the beauty of this evergreen plant while adding a touch of Mediterranean flair to your outdoor decor. Its resilience, low maintenance requirements, and fragrant foliage make it a top choice for hanging baskets.
Heucherella (Heucherella)
Heucherella, also known as coral bells or alum root, is a shade-loving evergreen plant that can be easily grown in hanging baskets. Native to North America, Heucherella features large foliage available in a variety of colors, including green, brown, purple, lime, burgundy, and red. Its distinctive bell-shaped flowers on long stalks add beauty and charm to any hanging basket.
This perennial plant thrives in moist, well-drained soil and can tolerate partial shade, making it ideal for outdoor baskets. Heucherella is hardy in USDA zones 4 to 9, ensuring it can withstand a range of temperatures and climates.
Whether you’re looking to add subtle greenery or vibrant colors to your hanging baskets, Heucherella is a fantastic choice. Its versatility, low maintenance requirements, and attractive foliage make it one of the best evergreen plants for hanging baskets.
Conclusion
When it comes to choosing the best plants for hanging baskets, evergreen plants are the way to go. These plants offer year-round greenery and vibrant colors that will enhance the beauty of your outdoor space. Whether you prefer the colorful blooms of bat-faced cuphea and golden creeping jenny or the classic elegance of English ivy and trailing rosemary, there is an evergreen plant that will suit your style.
When selecting evergreen plants for your hanging baskets, consider the growing conditions in your area. Take into account the amount of sun exposure your baskets will receive and the hardiness zone you are in. This will ensure that the plants you choose will thrive in your specific environment.
With proper care and attention, evergreen plants for hanging baskets can bring a touch of greenery and beauty to your space all year long. Regular watering, adequate sunlight, and occasional pruning will help your plants stay healthy and vibrant. So go ahead and get creative with your hanging baskets, and enjoy the beauty of evergreen plants in your outdoor decor.
