Gorgeous Coastal: 10 Top Summer Plant Picks

7. Agapanthus (Lily of the Nile)

Blue and white Agapanthus, also known as Lily of the Nile, are beautiful summer plants often found in gardens near the beach, shown here blooming in wooden planters on a patio.

I’ll admit it—before I tried growing Agapanthus, I thought it was one of those plants that only landscape designers used to make rich people’s yards look like magazine spreads. You know, the ones with tall, round blooms that just scream sophistication? But then I saw a neighbor in Chicago grow it in a pot on her tiny patio and still made it look like a million bucks. That’s when I knew I had to give it a shot—and honestly? It might be my new favorite plant for making outdoor spaces feel intentional without going broke.

Tall, Bold, and Totally Eye-Catching

Let’s start with what makes agapanthus so special: those tall stalks with round blue or white flower heads that rise above everything else in the garden. Seriously, they’re like nature’s version of modern art—clean lines, bold shapes, and a little dramatic flair. I planted mine toward the back of my raised beds and let me tell you, they add this awesome vertical interest that makes the whole space feel more dynamic. No more flat, boring borders for me!

Container-Friendly Design Star

You don’t need a huge yard to pull off agapanthus—it works in garden beds or containers with equal charm. I started with pots because I’m always moving things around trying to get the “perfect shot” for Instagram (guilty), and it totally delivered. The key is using a well-draining mix and giving them enough sun. Once established, they practically take care of themselves—which is great if you’re into gorgeous coastal looks but don’t have the time to babysit every leaf.

Tough Enough for Real Life

Here’s what I love most: this plant is seriously low-maintenance. It’s drought-tolerant, which means I can forget to water it for a few days (okay, sometimes weeks) and it doesn’t throw a fit. Plus, it’s deer-resistant, so if you live somewhere critters like to snack on your greenery (looking at you, suburban Chicago and Seattle folks), you won’t come home to a massacre. Win-win in my book.

Minimalist Magic for Design Lovers

If you’re into modern, minimalist landscapes or just appreciate clean lines and strong structure in your outdoor decor, agapanthus is basically your muse. There’s something architectural about the way the leaves fan out at the base and the bloom stalks shoot straight up—it’s elegant, but not fussy. I’ve seen it used in everything from sleek urban rooftops to beachy California gardens, and it always brings that polished touch without feeling too stiff.

A Love Letter to Form + Function

Honestly, I think that’s why it appeals to architecture and design fans so much. It’s not just pretty—it’s thoughtful. Every part of it serves a purpose, both aesthetically and practically. Whether you’re designing a wedding backdrop, styling a photo shoot, or just trying to keep your balcony looking fresh all summer long, agapanthus has got your back.

Ready to keep going? Click next to meet a summer standout that brings softness and texture to even the tightest spaces—Mexican Heather. Trust me, it’s perfect for those dreamy garden vignettes. 🌿🌺