When it comes to decorating outdoor spaces, we typically think of gorgeous annual flowers like petunia and geranium (if you live in the North) and angelonia and pentas (if you live in hotter areas like Florida or Texas). But don't overlook shrubs! Easy-care shrubs add drama to container gardens, and often hold up better to hot, dry weather than annuals. 

Allamanda
Allamanda (Allamanda schottii) is a tropical flowering shrub you're sure to adore because of its constant supply of cheery golden-yellow flowers. Wonderfully heat-tolerant, it doesn't stop blooming until the weather gets cold. And, it's deer- and rabbit resistant! 

Firebush
If you're looking to attract butterflies, it's hard to find a better plant than firebush (Hamelia patens). A Florida native plant, its orange flowers are irresistible to hummingbirds and butterflies. 

Gardenia
Gardenia (Gardenia jasminoides) offers the double threat of gorgeous pure-white flowers and a breath-taking fragrance. What could be better than spending time on your patio seeing gardenia's blooms shimmer in the moonlight and taking in its heavenly scent? 

Texas Sage
Texas sage (Leucophyllum frutescens), also called Texas ranger, is actually a North American native shrub. As you might guess, it's ultra-tough, holding up to heat as well as drought. It features silvery foliage that creates a soft effect and beautifully accents its lavender-pink flowers. 

Thryallis
Thryallis (Galphimia glauca) is a plant I'd never heard of before I came to Florida. Because of it's constant bloom season, it's like a ray of sunshine in the garden. Once it starts blooming, it doesn't stop! 

There are plenty of other amazing tropical shrubs, too (including cape honeysuckle and tropical hibiscus) -- so it's easy to find one of these low-fuss, durable plants to add decor to your deck, patio, or balcony this summer!

Written by Justin Hancock