Gorgeous Coastal: 10 Top Summer Plant Picks

Summer is here, and if you’re like me—you want your space to breathe that fresh, breezy coastal charm. Whether you’re styling your patio in LA, sprucing up a rooftop garden in NYC, or adding curb appeal to your Dallas home, the right summer plants can transform your space into a seaside oasis.

And hey, I get it—we’re juggling work, family, events, maybe even a Pinterest board full of DIYs. So why not make your outdoor space as effortlessly stylish as your Instagram feed? From lush foliage to vibrant blooms, these 10 top summer plant picks are not only easy to grow but also scream coastal chic. Let’s dive in!

1. Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia)

Let me tell you, the first time I brought home a Bird of Paradise, I had no idea what I was getting myself into. I mean, sure, it looked amazing in the nursery—those bold, tropical leaves just screamed “I belong in a design magazine.” But once I got it home and stuck it in a corner by the window, it started looking sad within days. Turns out, this isn’t some low-maintenance plant you can just forget about. Nope—it wants attention, sunlight, and good vibes.

Why It’s Perfect for a Coastal Vibe

If you’re going for that gorgeous coastal look—think breezy linens, sandy textures, and clean lines—this plant is your new best friend. The architectural flair of its leaves adds structure without feeling cluttered. I remember when I added one to my living room in Seattle, it gave the space this instant resort feel, like I was sipping iced coffee on a beach somewhere. And honestly, who doesn’t want that kind of escape at home?

Tips for Keeping It Happy

So here’s the deal: this beauty thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. If you live in a place like LA or San Francisco, you can even keep it outdoors part of the year! Just make sure it’s not sitting in water, or you’ll end up with root rot faster than you can say “botanical disaster.” I learned that lesson the hard way after overwatering mine during a rainy week. Not cute.

Also, don’t be afraid to give it space. These plants can get pretty big, so planting them in large pots makes sense. I use terracotta ones because they breathe better and help prevent moisture build-up. Plus, they look super chic with that earthy texture.

For the Fashion-Forward Plant Lover

If you’re someone who appreciates clean lines and high impact in your decor, this plant will speak directly to your aesthetic soul. Whether you style it next to a sleek console table or let it stand alone as a statement piece, it brings drama in the best way possible. Think of it as the little black dress of the plant world—classic, bold, and always stylish.

Still with me? Good. Because we’ve got more stunning summer plants coming your way. Ready to find out which one adds a splash of color that’s perfect for summer entertaining? Click next to meet our next star: Bougainvillea. Trust me, you won’t want to miss it. 🌺