When the summer heat hits, finding natural ways to cool down your outdoor spaces becomes a top priority. Luckily, certain plants have the magical ability to lower temperatures around them, creating refreshing pockets of shade and moisture. Adding these plants to your garden or patio corners can transform even the hottest spots into inviting retreats.
These plants don’t just look good—they actively help cool the air through their lush foliage and natural processes like transpiration. Whether you have a small balcony or a sprawling yard, incorporating these cooling plants can make a noticeable difference in comfort during scorching days.
In this guide, you’ll discover 18 incredible plants that bring instant cool vibes wherever you place them. From towering trees to trailing vines, these picks are perfect for making your outdoor spaces more enjoyable and serene all summer long.
Snake Plant
Known for its architectural beauty, the Snake Plant brings a touch of elegance to any corner. Its tall, sword-like leaves make it a statement piece that’s hard to ignore. Beyond aesthetics, this plant is lauded for its air-purifying abilities, making it a functional choice too. It thrives on neglect, requiring little water and low light, perfect for those with a busy lifestyle. Did you know? The Snake Plant is also known as Mother-in-Law’s Tongue, a nod to its pointed leaves.
Fiddle Leaf Fig
Is there a plant more Instagram-worthy than the Fiddle Leaf Fig? Its large, glossy leaves draw attention and admiration from all who see it. This plant is a favorite for those looking to add height and a touch of drama to their interiors. While it requires a bit more care, the payoff is worth it. A well-placed Fiddle Leaf Fig can elevate a space from mundane to magazine-ready instantly.
Monstera Deliciosa
Monstera Deliciosa, often called the Swiss Cheese Plant, is celebrated for its striking split leaves. It adds a tropical flair to any home, instantly making a room feel more alive and vibrant. This plant grows rapidly, offering lush greenery that can fill an entire corner beautifully. It’s relatively easy to care for, making it an ideal choice for both beginners and seasoned plant enthusiasts. Consider placing it in a spot where its leaves can catch the light for a stunning visual effect.
Peace Lily
Peace Lilies are the epitome of grace and simplicity. Their elegant white flowers and dark green leaves create a calming effect, perfect for workspaces or reading nooks. Known for removing toxins from the air, they not only beautify but also improve the environment’s quality. Despite their delicate appearance, Peace Lilies are hardy plants that can thrive in low light, making them versatile and easy to maintain. A truly peaceful addition to any home.
Boston Fern
With its feathery fronds, the Boston Fern creates a sense of movement and life. It’s perfect for hanging baskets or elevated shelves, where its leaves can drape elegantly. This fern loves humidity, making it a great choice for bathrooms or kitchens. It’s a classic plant that brings a touch of vintage charm to modern spaces. Keep it hydrated and misted regularly to enjoy its full, vibrant appearance.
Rubber Plant
The Rubber Plant, with its broad, deep green leaves, adds a bold touch to any room. It’s a versatile plant that can grow into a tall tree or be pruned to a more compact size, depending on your space. This plant is a powerhouse in filtering indoor air pollutants, making it a beneficial addition beyond its aesthetic appeal. It thrives in bright, indirect sunlight and moderate watering, offering easy care for plant lovers.
Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera is not just a plant; it’s a natural remedy with numerous uses. Its succulent leaves contain a gel known for its soothing properties, making it a must-have for any home. This plant flourishes in sunny spots, such as kitchen windowsills, providing a refreshing splash of green. Aloe Vera is incredibly low maintenance, requiring minimal water and attention. It’s a practical and attractive choice for those who appreciate beauty with benefits.
ZZ Plant
The ZZ Plant is often hailed as the ultimate survivor. Its ability to thrive in low light and endure periods of neglect makes it a top choice for busy individuals. The glossy, dark green leaves reflect light beautifully, adding a touch of elegance and depth to any setting. This plant is also known to improve indoor air quality, making it as functional as it is attractive. A truly unassuming hero in the world of houseplants.
Spider Plant
Spider Plants are a delightful addition to any home, known for their playful appearance and easy-care nature. Their long, arching leaves are often accompanied by small offshoots that resemble tiny spiders, hence the name. This plant is excellent at purifying the air and can thrive in various conditions, from low light to bright, indirect sun. A perfect choice for those seeking a lively, undemanding plant that brings charm and cleanliness.
Calathea
Calathea, with its vibrant and patterned leaves, acts as living art in any space. Each leaf is a masterpiece, showcasing intricate designs that catch the eye. This plant thrives in humidity and indirect light, preferring a cozy, warm spot in your home. Known as the prayer plant, its leaves move in response to the light, adding a dynamic element to your decor. A beautiful choice for plant enthusiasts who appreciate nature’s artistry.
Dracaena
Dracaena offers a sleek, sophisticated look with its slender, arching leaves. This plant is perfect for adding height and structure to a room, making a statement without overwhelming the space. It’s a hardy choice, capable of thriving in low to moderate light conditions. Dracaenas are also effective at filtering indoor air, contributing to a healthier environment. Ideal for both homes and offices, they bring minimalism and elegance together.
English Ivy
English Ivy is a timeless classic, known for its cascading vines and lush foliage. It thrives in hanging baskets or as a trailing plant on shelves, bringing an old-world charm to any setting. This plant is excellent at improving air quality, removing pollutants effectively. It prefers bright, indirect light and regular watering to maintain its verdant appearance. A nod to traditional elegance, English Ivy complements both modern and classical interiors.
Jade Plant
The Jade Plant, often associated with prosperity and good luck, is a charming succulent with thick, glossy leaves. Its compact size makes it ideal for desktops or small spaces, adding a touch of green without taking over. This plant is easy to care for, thriving in bright light and requiring minimal watering. Its slow growth and resilience make it a favorite among succulent enthusiasts. A practical and endearing choice for any room.
Chinese Evergreen
Chinese Evergreen plants are celebrated for their lush, variegated foliage and adaptability. They thrive in low light and are incredibly easy to care for, making them suitable for even the most novice plant owners. This plant’s ability to purify air is an added bonus, contributing to a healthier living space. With a touch of tropical flair, Chinese Evergreens enhance any room with their vibrant presence and straightforward maintenance.
Pothos
Pothos is a true staple for plant lovers, known for its resilience and trailing vines. Its heart-shaped leaves add a gentle, inviting touch to any room, whether hanging or climbing. This plant thrives in a variety of conditions, from low light to bright, indirect sun, and requires minimal care. Pothos is also a natural air purifier, making it a functional and beautiful addition to any home. Its versatility and charm make it a perennial favorite.
Bird of Paradise
Bird of Paradise plants bring a touch of the exotic with their large, banana-like leaves and striking flowers. While the blooms are rare indoors, the foliage alone makes a dramatic statement. This plant loves bright, indirect sunlight and regular watering to maintain its tropical appearance. Perfect for creating a sense of escape, Bird of Paradise is a centerpiece that evokes the allure of distant shores.
Philodendron
Philodendrons are a versatile group of plants, beloved for their ease of care and lush foliage. Their heart-shaped leaves create a warm, welcoming vibe, whether climbing or trailing. These plants adapt well to different light conditions, making them suitable for various home environments. They’re also known for their air-purifying capabilities, ensuring a healthier atmosphere. An adaptable and attractive choice, Philodendrons continue to be a favorite among plant enthusiasts.
Bamboo Palm
The Bamboo Palm exudes a tranquil, tropical vibe with its slender, arching fronds. It’s perfect for adding a touch of greenery to compact spaces without overwhelming them. This plant thrives in indirect light and helps to purify the air, making it a practical and picturesque choice for both homes and offices. With its graceful appearance, the Bamboo Palm brings serenity and elegance to any corner, inviting relaxation and peace.