Top 20 Low-Maintenance Plants Perfect for Effortless Landscaping

Lorolpetalum

Plant 'Crimson Fire,' a dwarf loropetalum, and you can essentially set it and forget it. This compact shrub boasts vibrant ruby-red leaves that endure year-round, complemented by clusters of strap-shaped, electric-pink flowers that bloom in the spring. It maintains a tidy size, reaching approximately 4 feet in height and spanning 4 to 5 feet in width. These low-maintenance outdoor plants are perfect for mass plantings, border arrangements, foundation plantings, or container gardening. Additionally, you can discover loropetalum with blossoms in shades of magenta, cream, or reddish-purple.

Loropetalums thrive with a minimum of four hours of direct sunlight daily, although they prefer cooler morning sun and some afternoon shade in regions with hot summers. Plant them in well-draining, loose, and slightly acidic soil that is rich in nutrients. For heavy or clay-like soil, incorporate bagged topsoil, while sandy soil benefits from the addition of compost or peat moss. If you anticipate temperatures dropping below 0 degrees, consider applying mulch or providing protection using shrub wraps or burlap. Pruning is best done after the flowering period to maintain their shape and health.