Swap Your Azaleas for 33 Eye-Catching Plants

azalea are popular for their vibrant efflorescence and lush verdure , but they call for specific rise condition . If you ’re front for beautiful alternatives that are easier to handle for , consider these 33 sensational plant .

Each offers unique appeal and resilience , providing a burst of color and living to any garden . From the ticklish bloom of the camelia to the unfearing leaf of hostas , these selections will inspire you to diversify your garden with less fuss and more beauty .

1. Camellia

camellia are known for their romantic , rose - comparable blooms that can transmute any garden into a woolgathering escape . The flower , which blossom in a variety of coloring material from white to cryptic red , proffer a long - live on display . Their glossy , evergreen plant leaves add social system and depth to garden beds yr - round . Camellias boom in well - drained , acid ground and partial ghost , making them a various selection . Did you know ? Camellias have been cultivate in Asia for century , and one species , Camellia sinensis , is used to produce tea .

2. Hosta

Funka are a nurseryman ’s pleasure , known for their extravagant foliage rather than heyday . With leaves ranging from vivacious fleeceable to blue - greyness , each sort offers unique rule that catch the eye . These plant thrive in the nuance , get them perfect for those tricky smear under trees or in the shadow of buildings . Hosta are low - sustentation , take minimal care once established . playfulness fact : genus Funka uprise from NE Asia and are often called “ plantain lily . ” Their resilience cook them a favorite among both novice and seasoned gardeners .

3. Lavender

Lavender brings not only beauty but also a calming fragrance that evoke the serene landscapes of Provence . Its slender , majestic bloom appear in midsummer and attract pollinator like bee and butterfly . This sun - loving plant life thrives in well - drained grunge , adding a feeling of Mediterranean appealingness to any garden . Lavender is also prized for its aromatic crude oil , often used in aromatherapy . History tidbit : Lavender has been used since Roman metre for bathing and nose rooms , reflecting its timeless appeal .

4. Hydrangea

Hydrangeas captivate with their large , round prime heads that can change color based on ground pH. Whether you opt blues , pink , or purples , these blossom declare oneself a dynamic display . They flourish in rich , well - debilitate soil with moderate sunlight , make them adaptable to various garden options . Hydrangeas are also a symbol of devout emotion , often give as gifts . Did you recognise ? The color - alter trait of hydrangeas is due to the presence of Al ions , work by soil acidity .

5. Peony

Peonies are the epitome of flowered sumptuousness , with their lush , bowl - shaped blooms that are the centrepiece of any garden . Their fragrance is as captivating as their coming into court , reminiscent of gratifying leaping days . These perennials fly high in well - drained dirt and full sun , rewarding gardener with blooms that last for decades . Peonies also make first-class cutting flowers , bringing elegance indoors . Interesting fact : paeony are often associated with love affair and prosperity , relieve oneself them popular in wedding party fragrance .

6. Rhododendron

rhododendron are the show - show-stopper of spring , with their abundant clump of prime creating a orgy of color . These evergreen plant shrubs provide year - round interest group with their cosmetic leaves . They boom in acid , well - drained ground and partial shade , expect minimal maintenance once found . Rhododendrons attract hummingbird , adding lively motion to garden . Did you have a go at it ? The name “ rhododendron ” come from the Greek words for rosiness ( rhodo ) and tree diagram ( dendron ) , highlighting their floral brilliance .

7. Dahlia

Dahlias are nature ’s fireworks , burst with color and intricate patterns . These tuberous plants offer an astounding variety of variety and size , from petite pom - pommy to declamatory dinner - photographic plate bloom . They prefer sunny spots and well - drain grunge , rewarding nurseryman with a prolong anthesis time of year . Dahlias make arresting cut flower , contribute a splash of color indoors . Fun fact : Dahlias originate from Mexico , where they were once used as a food generator before their ornamental value was expose .

8. Gardenia

Gardenias enchant with their creamy white flowers and heavenly sweetness , often assort with southern gardens . Their glossy foliage provide a striking backdrop to the blooms . These evergreen plant shrub flourish in ardent climates , preferring acidic territory and some tone . Gardenias are ideal for plant near terrace or walkways , where their scent can be enjoyed . Did you love ? Gardenias symbolize purity and fragrancy , often boast in hymeneals arrangements and perfumes .

9. Fuchsia

Fuchsias are the dancers of the plant world , with their drooping blooms resemble ballerinas in tutu . These spectre - loving plants summate a splash of color to hanging basketful and garden borders . Known for their unique , two - intone flowers , fuchsias come in a salmagundi of vivacious hue , drawing attention and esteem . They thrive in well - enfeeble , moist soil and benefit from regular feeding . merriment fact : Fuchsias were discovered by French phytologist Charles Plumier in the later seventeenth century and named after German plant scientist Leonhart Fuchs .

10. Bleeding Heart

Bleeding pump are a garden ’s romantic storyteller , with heart - shaped bloom that seemingly “ leech ” droplet of color . These perennial wonderment thrive in shady spots , adding a whimsical tinge to timber garden . Their soft , fern - like foliage complements the charming flush , create a lush , layered impression . bleed philia opt moist , well - debilitate dirt and bring early spring gardens to life history . Did you jazz ? The bleeding heart is native to Asia and was introduced to the West in the nineteenth 100 , captivating gardeners with its unequaled flowered video display .

11. Clematis

Clematis vines tender a tapestry of color , with star - influence flowers in hues rate from bass purpleness to delicate pink . These climbers are perfect for adding vertical interest to fences and treillage . Clematis prefers sunny position with roots shaded by other plant , thriving in well - run out soil . Their striking bloom can come out throughout the growing season , enchant onlookers . Fun fact : With over 300 coinage , clematis flowers are know as “ fag of climber ” and have been cultivated since the sixteenth century .

12. Hibiscus

Hibiscus plants are the embodiment of tropical beauty , with their bold , trumpet - shaped flowers that invite admiration . These Lord’s Day - loving plants make for a touch of paradise to gardens , with flower in vivid tincture of red , yellow , and pink . Hibiscus flourish in well - drained soil and warm climates , often becoming the centerpiece of garden landscapes . Their flowers attract hummingbird , adding dynamic motion to the garden . Did you know ? In Hawaii , hibiscus is the state prime and symbolizes cordial reception and joy .

13. Lilac

Lilacs are cherished for their intoxicating fragrancy and clusters of delicate flower that herald the reaching of spring . With efflorescence ranging from idle pink to mystifying purpleness , they add a splash of people of color to any landscape . These hardy bush thrive in well - drained territory and full sunlight , offering minimum upkeep and maximum beauty . Lilacs are often planted for their odorous scent , which carries on the walkover . Interesting tidbit : Lilacs belong to the olive family and were first add to Europe from the Ottoman Empire in the 16th century .

14. Magnolia

magnolia are the epitome of elegance with their great , fragrant blooms that announce the arrival of spring . Their efflorescence , often white or pink , adorn trees with a olympian mien . These tree prefer well - drained , slightly acidic grease and thrive in full Sunday to fond subtlety . Magnolias are a timeless choice for garden , proffer a graceful silhouette and bewitch aroma . Fun fact : Magnolia tree have existed for million of years , with fogey records dating back 95 million year , showcasing their ancient lineage .

15. Astilbe

Astilbe plant bring a trace of softness to garden with their feathery feather of pink , reddish , or white . These shade - have it away perennial are perfect for adding grain and color to woodland gardens . Thriving in robust , moist territory , astilbe are down - maintenance and offer a draw out flowering season . Their fern - like foliage adds depth and dividing line to garden beds . Did you get laid ? Astilbe is aboriginal to Asia and North America , and its name comes from the Hellenic Word of God “ a ” signification without and “ stilbe ” meaning brightness level , refer to its finespun blooms .

16. Sedum

Sedum , also known as stonecrop , is a succulent that thrives in poor soil with little water . These dauntless plants are complete for rock gardens or as ground binding , offer a variety of textures and colors . Sedum ’s star - shaped blossom appear in late summertime , providing a burst of pinkish or xanthous atop fleshy green leaves . Their resiliency and wanton - maintenance nature make them a deary among busy gardeners . Fun fact : Sedum is often used in green roofs for its drouth resistance and ability to appeal pollinators .

17. Foxglove

Foxgloves are the loom beauties of the garden , with grandiloquent peak spikes cut through in tubelike efflorescence . Their purple , pink , or livid bloom tally vertical interest and attract pollinators . These biennials choose fond shade and well - drain dirt , often ego - seeding to return class after year . Foxgloves are beloved for their bungalow garden charm . Did you know ? Foxglove is the reference of digitalis , a heart medication , highlighting its treble role as both a beauty and a medicinal flora .

18. Zinnia

Zinnias are the cheerful companions of summer gardens , with bright , daisy - similar flower in an array of colors . These yearly thrive in full sun and well - drained stain , offering around-the-clock blooms . Their long - lasting blossom are arrant for cutting , bringing bursts of coloration indoors . Zinnias are also a magnet for butterflies , creating a lively garden atmosphere . Fun fact : Zinnias are aboriginal to Mexico and were once considered “ flower of the beat ” by the Aztecs , used in traditional ceremonial occasion .

19. Impatiens

Impatiens land a splash of colouring material to shaded garden spots with their bright , cheerful blooms . These annuals thrive in moist , well - drained land , provide a uninterrupted video display of pinkish , red-faced , and white flush . Their thickset growth and abundant blooms make them ideal for borders and containers , add vibrancy to shaded areas . Impatiens are easy to care for , gain them a favorite among gardeners . Did you know ? Impatiens are also sleep together as “ touch - me - nots ” due to their seed pods , which burst when pertain , circulate seeds widely .

20. Daylily

Daylilies are the reliable star of the repeated garden , with their burnished , trumpet - mold prime that last just a day . Despite their fleeting flowers , they produce multiple blooms on each stalk , ensuring a colorful show throughout summer . These brave works thrive in full sunlight and well - run out soil , requiring minimum aid . Daylilies are also drouth - kind , piss them perfect for low - sustainment gardens . Fun fact : Though call “ day ” lily , these plants are not dependable lily but belong to the genus Hemerocallis .

21. Verbena

Verbena is a sun - loving plant that contribute fragile clustering of purple flowers to garden . roll in the hay for their long blooming season , these perennial are consummate for border and container . Verbena thrive in well - drained soil and full sun , attracting butterflies and other pollinator . Their low - growing substance abuse makes them idealistic for solid ground screen , creating a carpeting of people of color . Did you fuck ? Verbena has been used medicinally for 100 , believed to have calm down properties and once referred to as “ tears of Isis . ”

22. Coreopsis

Coreopsis , also known as tick-weed , tender cheerful , daisy - like flowers in vibrant yellow hues . These aboriginal flora are hardy and drought - liberal , thriving in pitiable dirt and full sunshine . Their long - lasting heyday make them a dearie for pollinator , adding life to any garden . Coreopsis is perfect for borders and wildflower garden , bring a sunny disposition . Fun fact : Coreopsis was discover the State Department wild flower of Florida , reflecting its popularity and adaptability across various landscapes .

23. Heuchera

genus Heuchera , unremarkably recognise as coral bells , offers a arresting regalia of foliage colors that range from deep purple to bright pea green . These perennials are prized for their cosmetic leaf that supply texture to gardens . Heuchera boom in partial spook and well - drain soil , making it unadulterated for shady borders and containers . Their modest , bell - determine blossom appeal pollinators , adding dynamical involvement to your garden . Did you know ? Heuchera is native to North America and was traditionally used by Native Americans for medicinal purposes .

24. Lantana

Lantana is a vibrant , sunlight - loving plant life that work clusters of multicolored flower to garden . These annuals are heat - kind and thrive in well - drained soil , add bold color to border and container . Their sweet ambrosia attracts butterfly and hummingbirds , create a lively garden environment . Lantana ’s long blooming season ensures continuous color throughout the summer months . Interesting choice morsel : Lantana is considered invasive in some regions due to its vigorous growth , so gardener should supervise its counterpane .

25. Marigold

marigold are the sunlight of the garden , with their brilliant orange and yellow blooms that bring warmth to any blank space . These annuals are easy to grow , thriving in full Dominicus and well - drain dirt . Marigolds are known for their blighter - repelling properties , often used in fellow traveller planting to protect vegetables . Their long - lasting blooms make them a staple in summer garden . play fact : Marigolds are often assort with the Day of the Dead jubilation in Mexico , symbolizing the sun and Resurrection of Christ .

26. Ornamental Grasses

Ornamental smoke add drift and texture to gardens with their feathery plumes and graceful figure . These versatile plant are downcast - criminal maintenance , prosper in various grease types and climates . Their tall , arch stems provide structure and year - round interest , especially when backlit by the sun . Ornamental grasses are perfect for adding contrast and rhythm method to garden designs . Did you get laid ? Many ornamental Gunter Wilhelm Grass are native to prairies and meadows , contributing to biodiversity and providing habitat for wildlife .

27. Snapdragon

Snapdragons are playful plants with their dragon - like blooms that kids love to wring open . These annuals are perfect for adding vertical colouring to garden bed and borderline . snapdragon thrive in full Sunday and well - drained soil , extend a range of colors from pastels to bold reds and yellows . Their long - lasting flowers make them a pet for cutting garden . Interesting fact : Snapdragons are native to the Mediterranean region , and their name comes from the flower ’s resemblance to a dragon ’s face when pinched .

28. Japanese Maple

Nipponese maples are the artisans of the tree diagram earth , with their finely turn out leave of absence and stunning seasonal colors . These trees put up striking crimson , orange , and yellow hues , making them focal points in any landscape painting . They prefer well - drain dirt and partial shade , providing a elegant frame and elegant silhouette . Japanese maples are often used in bonsai and traditional Japanese gardens . merriment fact : Japanese maples have been cultivate for over 300 years , with over a thousand varieties displaying unique foliage shapes and vividness .

29. Begonia

Begonias are a gardener ’s favorite for their colorful flower and versatile growing habits . These shade - loving plants offer flush in a wide range of colors , from soft pinko to vivid Bolshevik . begonia boom in well - drained territory and are perfect for containers , hanging basket , and garden seam . Their lush foliage adds texture and involvement to shady spot . Did you lie with ? begonia are constitute after Michel Bégon , a French patron of botany , and are aboriginal to tropical and subtropic regions around the world .

30. Salvia

Salvia , also known as sage , is a pollinator ’s paradise with its vivacious blue or purple flower spikes . These works are drouth - tolerant and thrive in well - drained soil and full Sunday . Salvia ’s redolent foliage adds another level of interest , and its longsighted blossom time of year see to it continuous color . These versatile plants are excellent for borders and wildlife gardens . play fact : The name “ salvia ” comes from the Latin “ salvere , ” entail to heal , foreground its diachronic use in traditional medicine .

31. Phlox

Phlox is a magic add-on to any garden , with its clusters of star - regulate prime in pink , white , and purpleness . These perennials are known for their cherubic fragrance and long blooming season . Phlox thrives in well - drained soil and full Dominicus , providing a carpeting of colour that attracts pollinator . Its versatility makes it perfect for borders , rock gardens , and containers . Did you have intercourse ? Phlox is native to North America and was popularise in Europe in the eighteenth C , becoming a staple in bungalow garden .

32. Tuberose

Tuberose is the image of fragrance , with its inebriate odor that perfume the evening air travel . These tropical plants get tall spikes of livid , waxy flowers that bloom in late summer . Tuberose thrives in warm mood and well - drained grunge , often planted near patios to savor their evening fragrance . They are also used in perfumes , get their exotic essence . sport fact : Tuberose is aboriginal to Mexico and was introduced to Europe in the 16th century , where it became a favorite in perfume making .

33. Fountain Grass

outpouring grass is a refined summation to garden , with its arching plumes and soft , flowing appearance . These ornamental grasses thrive in full sunlight and well - drained land , add grain and campaign to landscapes . Their feathery feather see the twinkle attractively , offering twelvemonth - troll interest . outflow grass is perfect for borders , rock’n’roll gardens , and as a backcloth for flower plants . Did you know ? Fountain eatage is often used in landscape painting design for its lowly upkeep and ability to sway gently in the breeze .