Gorgeous Coastal: 10 Top Summer Plant Picks

8. Mexican Heather

Okay, let’s talk about the plant that surprised me the most this summer—Mexican Heather. I almost skipped over it at the nursery because, honestly, I was looking for something bold and dramatic (read: bougainvillea-level drama). But a friend who’s into garden design convinced me to give it a shot. And guess what? It’s now one of my favorite gorgeous coastal plants for adding softness without fading into the background.

Tiny Blooms, Big Impact

Let’s start with the best part: those delicate lavender blooms that last all summer. Seriously, this little guy just keeps on giving from June through September. No need to deadhead, no mid-season slump—just consistent, cheerful color. I planted mine along the edge of my patio in Dallas and it instantly made the space feel more put together. Like adding a lace trim to a linen pillow—small detail, big difference.

Small but Mighty

If you’re working with tight spaces or just want to fill in gaps without overwhelming your layout, Mexican Heather is your new BFF. It has a compact growth habit, so it’s perfect for edging or borders. I used it to line a narrow walkway and also tucked some into containers next to taller plants like agapanthus—and wow, the contrast was everything. It gives structure a little softness, which is exactly what you want if your garden starts leaning too “modern” or rigid.

Sun Worshiper with Simple Needs

Now, here’s the thing—it does have its preferences. It prefers full sun and well-draining soil, so don’t even try sticking it in a shady corner and expect miracles. I learned that the hard way when I planted a few near a tree and they basically disappeared. But move them out into the open? Boom. Instant revival. Just make sure your pots (if you’re container gardening) have good drainage, and don’t drown it in water. Let it dry out a bit between drinks.

Design-Ready Softness

One of my favorite things about this plant is how it adds softness and texture to structured spaces. If you’ve got clean lines, modern furniture, or geometric hardscaping, Mexican Heather brings in that organic, flowing element without stealing the show. I styled mine with white stones and concrete pots and it looked like something straight out of a design blog. Bonus points if you pair it with neutral-toned décor—it lets the lavender really pop.

Crafty Garden Moments Included

And okay, real talk—I’ve started using it for more than just landscaping. Because of its tidy size and long bloom time, it’s perfect for crafting beautiful garden vignettes. Whether I’m setting up a little reading nook or styling a photo for Instagram, Mexican Heather adds that extra layer of charm without demanding attention. It’s like the supporting actor who still steals the scene.

Ready to keep the floral magic going? Click next to meet a foliage standout that brings serious drama with zero diva behavior—Croton. You’re gonna love how bold it is! 🌿🌺