Some plants look like they belong in a luxury resort or a glossy magazine spread – all dramatic leaves, lush growth, and “surely this is fussy” energy.

But here’s the secret: many of the most striking plants are surprisingly low-effort.

If you love a garden that looks considered without demanding constant attention, these plants are for you.

1. Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia)

Looks: Architectural, tropical, statement-making
Reality: Tough as nails once established

Bird of Paradise is often mistaken for a diva, but it’s actually incredibly resilient. It thrives in full sun to part shade, tolerates dry spells once established, and doesn’t need constant pruning. The bold leaves do most of the work for you, and the flowers are just a bonus.

• Drought-tolerant once established
• Minimal pruning
• Handles heat well

2. Philodendron ‘Xanadu’

Looks: Lush, glossy, rainforest vibes
Reality: Very forgiving

This plant is a favourite for a reason. Xanadu gives dense, tropical foliage without the fuss. It’s happy in part shade, adapts well to different soils, and rarely complains if conditions aren’t perfect.

• Tolerates shade
• Self-shaping (no constant trimming)
• Hardy and adaptable

3. Cordyline

Looks: Sculptural, colourful, design-forward
Reality: Set and forget

Cordylines look like they need regular styling, but they really don’t. Once planted in a sunny spot with decent drainage, they’re happy to do their thing. The upright growth habit means they rarely need pruning.

• Very low water needs once established
• Great for pots or garden beds
• Adds instant height and colour

4. Lomandra

Looks: Soft, textured, perfectly manicured
Reality: Almost indestructible

Lomandra often gets overlooked because it’s so reliable, but it’s one of the easiest plants you can grow. It gives year-round structure and movement, handles heat, drought, wind, and poor soils, and only needs a tidy-up once a year (if that).

• Extremely drought-tolerant
• Pest and disease resistant
• Perfect for low-maintenance gardens

5. Hibiscus

Looks: Tropical, colourful, high drama
Reality: Surprisingly tough

Hibiscus flowers look delicate, but the plant itself is quite robust. Given sun and regular watering while establishing, Hibiscus will reward you with months of colour and very little ongoing work.

• Long flowering season
• Responds well to basic care
• Great for hedging or feature planting

6. Agave

Looks: Sculptural, bold, designer plant
Reality: Thrives on neglect

Agave is the definition of low-maintenance. These striking plants store water in their leaves, making them perfect for dry, sunny spots. Once planted, they require almost no attention at all.

• Extremely drought-tolerant
• No regular watering needed
• Perfect for modern gardens

7. Heliconia

Looks: Lush, tropical, high-end resort
Reality: Easier than you think (in warm climates)

Heliconias look exotic, but in warm, frost-free areas they’re surprisingly straightforward. Plant them in a sheltered, sunny spot, keep them watered during growth periods, and they’ll happily fill space without constant fuss.

• Fast-growing
• Minimal pruning
• Creates instant impact

8. Gardenia

Looks: Elegant, fragrant, “hard to grow”
Reality: Manageable with the right spot

Gardenias get a bad reputation, but when planted in the right position – morning sun, protection from harsh afternoon heat, and well-draining soil – they’re far less demanding than people think. The payoff is glossy foliage and beautifully scented flowers.

• Evergreen structure year-round
• Responds well to regular watering
• Stunning fragrance for minimal effort

Low Effort, High Impact

A beautiful garden doesn’t have to mean constant work. Many plants that look high-maintenance are actually some of the most forgiving – they just know how to put on a good show.

If you’re designing a garden that feels lush, considered, and effortless, start with plants that do the heavy lifting for you.