5 Low-Maintenance Outdoor Plants That Will Boost Your Home's Curb Appeal

Colorful Gerbera Daisies

Why do these bright and cheery daisies land a spot at the top of the list? They're "perfect for cutting in vases and adding tons of cheer to the front yard," Hancock says. Better yet, they'll bloom in all types of weather. "Some varieties can be a little fussy, but Garvinea varieties bloom nonstop in all types of weather (whether it's 40 or 100 degrees)."

Hardiness Zones (for Garvinea): 7 to 10

Beautiful, Flowering Mandevilla

Mandevilla is our favorite type of outdoor plant: the type you can plant and forget about. "It blooms nonstop with trumpet-shaped, red, pink, or white flowers, and it attracts hummingbirds and butterflies. Not only does Mandevilla hold up to heat and drought, but deer and rabbits don't eat it," says Hancock. If you have a fence or trellis in the front yard, opt for the climbing variety. If not, choose the mounding variety that typically stays under 15 inches tall.

Hardiness Zones: 9 to 11

Hardy Hosta

If large trees surround your yard, consider hosta, a tried-and-true favorite for shaded spots. There are hundreds of varieties, so search for one that fits your home's style. "Miniature varieties grow only a few inches across; giant types can grow 6 feet tall and wide. Look for varieties with blue, chartreuse, or green leaves, often variegated with white or gold," recommends Hancock.

Different types of hosta are suited to survive in different hardiness zones, so check the preferred temperatures for that specific variety before bringing it home.

Hardiness Zones: 3 to 9 (will vary)

Vibrant Blooming Pentas

"Pentas is a tropical perennial grown as an annual in most areas. Thanks to its tropical roots, it blooms nonstop, even as the mercury soars and humidity makes going outside uncomfortable." Basically, it's the ultimate plant when you want to enjoy blooms during the hottest days of summer. In areas that never experience frost, this option will bloom all year.

Hardiness Zones: 10 and 11

Hardy, Dramatic Hibiscus

You've met your match if you're looking for big, dramatic (up to 12-inch-wide!) blooms. Hancock suggests looking for perennial hibiscus varieties in shades of red, pink, or white. "It loves heat, tolerates drought, and doesn't mind wet soil, either," making it the ideal plant for a hot and dry climate.

Hardiness Zones: 9 to 11