Landscaping is more than just decoration—it is a long-term investment that directly impacts property value, curb appeal, and even energy efficiency. Choosing the right plants can significantly increase the perceived and actual value of a property, especially when planning a garden for resale or long-term appreciation.
But not all plants contribute equally. Some improve visual structure and seasonal interest, while others enhance privacy, reduce maintenance costs, or support sustainable gardening practices.
This guide breaks down exactly which plants add value to landscaping, why they matter, and how to choose the best ones for different property types.
Quick Answer
The plants that add the most value to landscaping are those that combine year-round visual appeal, low maintenance, durability, and structural impact.
Top value-adding plants include:
- Evergreen shrubs (boxwood, holly, juniper)
- Ornamental grasses (miscanthus, fountain grass)
- Flowering perennials (lavender, hydrangea, coneflower)
- Small ornamental trees (Japanese maple, flowering dogwood)
- Ground covers (creeping thyme, ivy, sedum)
These plants improve curb appeal, reduce maintenance costs, and make outdoor spaces feel more designed and functional—three key factors that increase property value.
Why Plants Increase Property Value
Plants influence property value in three major ways:
1. Curb Appeal (First Impression Value)
Buyers often decide within seconds whether a property feels “valuable.” Structured greenery and color layering create emotional appeal.
2. Functional Landscaping Benefits
Plants can:
- Provide privacy (hedges, tall grasses)
- Reduce energy costs (shade trees)
- Prevent soil erosion (ground cover)
- Reduce noise pollution (dense shrubs)
3. Maintenance Perception
Low-maintenance landscapes are more attractive to buyers than high-effort gardens.
Comparison Table: High-Value Landscaping Plants
| Plant Type | Examples | Value Contribution | Maintenance Level | Best Use |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Evergreen Shrubs | Boxwood, Holly, Juniper | Structure + year-round appeal | Low | Borders, hedges |
| Ornamental Grasses | Miscanthus, Fountain Grass | Texture + movement | Low | Modern landscapes |
| Flowering Perennials | Lavender, Hydrangea, Coneflower | Seasonal color + pollinators | Medium | Garden beds |
| Small Trees | Japanese Maple, Dogwood | Focal point + shade | Medium | Front yards |
| Ground Cover Plants | Creeping Thyme, Sedum, Ivy | Soil coverage + weed control | Very low | Slopes, pathways |
Best Plants That Add Value to Landscaping
Below are the most reliable plant categories that consistently increase landscaping value.
1. Evergreen Shrubs
Evergreen shrubs are foundational in high-value landscaping because they maintain structure throughout the year.
Examples:
- Boxwood
- Holly
- Juniper
- Arborvitae
Why they add value:
- Provide year-round greenery
- Define property boundaries
- Create a “finished” look even in winter
These plants are especially valuable in resale-focused landscaping because they ensure the yard never looks empty or neglected.
2. Ornamental Grasses
Ornamental grasses are increasingly popular in modern landscape design.
Examples:
- Miscanthus sinensis
- Fountain grass
- Blue fescue
Value benefits:
- Add movement and texture
- Very low maintenance
- Drought-tolerant (water-saving appeal)
They are often used in modern and minimalist landscapes to increase visual sophistication without high cost.
3. Flowering Perennials
Perennials provide recurring seasonal beauty, which significantly enhances perceived value.
Examples:
- Lavender
- Hydrangea
- Coneflower (Echinacea)
- Black-eyed Susan
Why they matter:
- Return every year (low replacement cost)
- Attract pollinators (eco-friendly appeal)
- Add color variation throughout seasons
Hydrangeas, in particular, are often considered a premium landscaping plant due to their large, dramatic blooms.
4. Small Ornamental Trees
Trees are among the highest ROI landscaping investments.
Examples:
- Japanese Maple
- Flowering Dogwood
- Crabapple
- Magnolia (smaller varieties)
Value contribution:
- Provide shade (reducing cooling costs)
- Create focal points
- Increase perceived maturity of property
A well-placed ornamental tree can increase property value perception more than many structural upgrades.
5. Ground Cover Plants
Ground cover plants reduce maintenance costs and improve landscape uniformity.
Examples:
- Creeping Thyme
- Sedum
- Ivy
- Pachysandra
Benefits:
- Suppress weed growth
- Prevent soil erosion
- Reduce lawn maintenance needs
They are especially useful for slopes, borders, and areas where grass struggles to grow.
Pros & Cons of Value-Adding Landscaping Plants
Evergreen Shrubs
Pros:
- Year-round structure
- Low maintenance
- Privacy enhancement
Cons:
- Can grow slowly
- Require occasional shaping
Ornamental Grasses
Pros:
- Very low maintenance
- Modern aesthetic
- Drought resistant
Cons:
- Can look messy if not trimmed annually
- Some varieties spread aggressively
Flowering Perennials
Pros:
- Seasonal color variety
- Eco-friendly (pollinators)
- Long lifespan
Cons:
- Some require seasonal pruning
- Not evergreen
Small Trees
Pros:
- High ROI landscaping element
- Shade and cooling benefits
- Strong focal point
Cons:
- Longer growth time
- Root system management needed
Ground Cover Plants
Pros:
- Excellent weed suppression
- Low maintenance
- Soil protection
Cons:
- Can become invasive (ivy especially)
- Limited visual height impact
How to Choose Plants That Maximize Property Value
To maximize landscaping ROI, follow these principles:
1. Balance Structure and Softness
Combine evergreen shrubs (structure) with flowering plants (visual appeal).
2. Prioritize Low Maintenance
Buyers prefer “easy care” gardens over complex ones.
3. Use Layering Design
- Tall: Trees
- Medium: Shrubs
- Low: Ground cover
4. Focus on Year-Round Appeal
Avoid landscapes that only look good in one season.
Common Mistakes That Reduce Landscaping Value
- Overplanting (too crowded = messy look)
- Choosing high-maintenance exotic plants
- Ignoring seasonal balance
- No clear design structure
- Excessive lawn area with no focal points
FAQ
1. What plants increase home resale value the most?
Evergreen shrubs, ornamental trees, and low-maintenance perennials like lavender and hydrangea tend to offer the highest ROI.
2. Are flowers or trees better for landscaping value?
Trees generally provide higher long-term value, but flowers improve immediate visual appeal. The best landscapes combine both.
3. What is the lowest maintenance high-value plant?
Ornamental grasses and evergreen shrubs like boxwood are among the lowest maintenance options with strong visual impact.
4. Do native plants increase property value?
Yes. Native plants reduce maintenance costs and water usage, making the property more attractive to modern buyers.
5. Can landscaping really increase home value?
Yes. Well-designed landscaping can increase property value by 5% to 15% depending on location and quality.
