First impressions matter—and for many homes, that starts at the curb. But once summer hits and the heat kicks in, keeping the yard fresh and inviting can feel like a second job. The trick? Choosing plants that thrive in the heat, ask for little, and still look like you’re giving your yard all the attention in the world.

Here are some of the best low-maintenance picks to boost curb appeal without turning your summer into a landscaping marathon.

Go Bold with Coneflowers

Coneflowers don’t shy away from the sun. These vibrant perennials love hot weather, rarely need water once established, and attract butterflies all season long. They come in bright shades like pink, orange, and yellow, which makes them perfect for planting near walkways or driveways where they’ll pop against neutral tones.

And because they bloom from early summer into fall, you won’t have to worry about swapping them out mid-season.

Bring in Some Drama with Ornamental Grasses

Ornamental grasses add movement, height, and a sense of polish without any fuss. Varieties like feather reed grass or blue fescue handle heat well, don’t mind dry spells, and rarely need trimming.

They pair well with boulders, mulch, or pavers—especially if you’re going for a clean, modern look. Plant them along fences, near the mailbox, or as a soft border around flower beds.

Try Lantana for a Burst of Color

Lantana delivers bold clusters of flowers in fiery shades of red, orange, and yellow. It thrives in full sun, resists drought, and doesn’t flinch at triple-digit temperatures.

It’s a favorite for front yards that get hit with strong afternoon sun. Even better, deer tend to leave it alone, and the blooms just keep coming.

Use Boxwood to Keep Things Structured

If your home’s style leans more traditional, boxwoods give a tidy, classic shape to your yard. These evergreen shrubs can be trimmed into low hedges, round accents, or clean lines along walkways.

They hold their shape all year and don’t require much water once rooted. Plant a few near the porch or along the driveway to create an organized, intentional look with little upkeep.

Lavender Does More Than Just Look Good

Lavender pulls double duty: it smells amazing and keeps the yard looking sharp. It grows best in full sun and well-drained soil, which makes this low-maintenance plant ideal for front beds that don’t see much sprinkler action.

The silvery foliage and purple flowers add a soft contrast to brick, stone, or wood siding. Plus, bees love it, and mosquitoes don’t.

Succulents for the Win

In areas with minimal rain or strict watering limits, succulents like sedum and hens-and-chicks are lifesavers. They’re low to the ground, love the heat, and come in a surprising range of textures and colors.

Use them in borders, shallow beds, or even decorative pots by the front steps. Once they’re settled, they basically take care of themselves.

Mulch Makes Everything Look Finished

You can have the best plants in town, but without mulch, things can still feel scattered. Mulch does more than make the yard look polished, it holds in moisture, keeps weeds down, and protects plant roots from intense heat.

Deep brown or black mulch works with most exteriors and helps bright flowers and green foliage stand out.

Keep It Simple, But Intentional

You don’t need dozens of different plants or complicated arrangements to make the front of your home shine. A few heat-hardy choices placed with purpose can boost curb appeal and help the home stand out, even on the hottest days.

Stick with perennials that return each year, add structure with shrubs or grasses, and lean on mulch to pull everything together. You’ll spend less time maintaining and more time enjoying the view.