Did you know that adding climbing plants to your pergola can reduce surrounding temperatures by up to 10°F? That’s right! By simply introducing the right plants to grow under your pergola, you can create a cooler, more inviting space to relax in, even during the hottest months.
These 10 best plants to under a pergola will help you create an outdoor oasis that offers both beauty and shade
What Is a Pergola?
A pergola is more than just a decorative garden feature. It’s an outdoor structure typically made of vertical posts and crossbeams, designed to support climbing plants.
While pergolas provide a charming, open framework, they become even more stunning when paired with fast-growing climbing plants that turn them into a lush, shaded oasis.
Benefits of Creating Shade with Plants
Climbing plants offer a natural way to create shade around your pergola. As they wind their way up the pergola’s structure, they provide a cooling canopy of leaves and flowers.
Not only does this keep your space cooler during warmer months, but Knowing the best plants to grow under pergola can also creates a beautiful, green backdrop perfect for relaxation.
10 Best Plants to Grow Under Pergola for Beauty and Shade
1. Climbing Hydrangea – Lush Foliage and Full Shade
Climbing hydrangeas are a slow-growing but beautiful vine that thrives in partial to full shade. Their lush green leaves and delicate white blooms create a dense, elegant covering for your pergola which makes it perfect for every gardener.
As the flowers bloom in late spring, they bring a touch of sophistication to shaded spaces. The Climbing Hydrangea is best for Pergolas located in shadier areas or areas with dappled sunlight.
2. Clematis – A Colorful Climber for Sun and Shade
If you’re looking for vibrant colors, clematis is your go-to plant. With large, bold flowers that come in a wide variety of shades—purple, red, pink, and white—clematis offers a long-lasting burst of color.
This vine grows well in both sun and partial shade, making it versatile for most pergolas.This option is best for pergolas that get both sun and shade throughout the day.
3.Climbing Roses – Classic Beauty and Fragrance
Add a romantic touch and nice fragrace to your pergola with climbing roses. These classic beauties are known for their stunning blooms and fragrant aroma.
While they love the sun, climbing roses also do well in areas with partial shade, especially where they can get morning sun and afternoon shade.
Best for: Pergolas types in areas with a mix of sunlight and shade, especially during the hot afternoon hours.
4. Passionflower – Exotic Vibes and Full Sun Lovers
For an exotic flair, passionflower offers intricate and striking blooms in vibrant shades of blue, purple, and white.
Not only do they look stunning, but passionflowers also attract butterflies, adding even more life to your outdoor space.
Best for: Pergolas in full sun, where the plant can receive plenty of direct light.
5. Wisteria – A Cascading Bloomer for Partial Shade
Few plants can rival the breathtaking display of wisteria. This fast-growing vine drapes down in clusters of lavender, pink, or white flowers, creating a stunning waterfall effect.
Wisteria thrives in partial shade, and its dramatic blooms make it a showstopper for any pergola.
Best for: Pergolas with enough support to hold the weight of this vigorous climber.
6. Honeysuckle – Fragrant and Hardy for Partial to Full Sun
Honeysuckle is a hardy, fast-growing vine that can tolerate a range of sun conditions—from partial shade to full sun.
Known for its sweet scent and colorful blooms, this plant attracts pollinators like hummingbirds and butterflies, making your outdoor space a lively sanctuary.
Best for: Freestanding Pergolas in sunny or partially shaded areas where the fragrance can drift through your garden.
7. Jasmine – Fragrant White Flowers and Lush Coverage
Known for its intoxicating fragrance, jasmine offers both beauty and scent for your pergola.
This fast-growing vine is ideal for adding lush green foliage and fragrant white blooms to your outdoor structure. It thrives in full sun to partial shade.
Best for: Pergolas in warm climates where the plant can flourish and scent the air year-round.
8. Trumpet Vine – Bold Blooms and Great Coverage
The trumpet vine is perfect for creating dense shade and bold pops of color. Its large, trumpet-shaped flowers come in vibrant oranges and reds, making it a striking addition to your pergola.
This plant is also a fast grower, meaning it will quickly cover your pergola with its rich foliage.
Best for: Pergolas that receive plenty of sunlight and require lots of coverage.
9. Ivy – A Low-Maintenance, Classic Climber for Full Shade
If you’re looking for low-maintenance climbing plants, ivy is an excellent option. This evergreen climber provides thick, dense coverage even in fully shaded areas, making it perfect for adding year-round beauty to your pergola.
Best for: Pergolas located in full shade where other plants may struggle.
10. Bougainvillea – A Sun-Loving, Colorful Beauty
Bougainvillea is the ultimate sun lover. Its bright pink, red, and orange blooms will cover your pergola with vibrant, cascading color all summer long.
It’s drought-tolerant and loves the heat, making it perfect for pergolas in hot, sunny locations.
Quick Tips for Growing the Best Plants Under Pergola
- Choose the Right Plant for Your Climate and Pergola Location
When selecting plants for your pergola, it’s essential to consider your local climate and the amount of sunlight your pergola receives. While some plants thrive in full sun, others need partial or full shade to flourish.
- Provide Adequate Support and Trellis for Climbing Plants
Climbing plants need strong support systems to grow properly. Consider adding trellises, ties, or hooks to help train your vines as they climb your pergola. This ensures even coverage and healthier growth.
- Regular Maintenance for Thriving Climbing Plants
Pruning, feeding, and watering are key to keeping your pergola plants healthy. Regularly trim back overgrowth, provide adequate water (especially during dry spells), and feed your plants with nutrient-rich fertilizer to keep them blooming and vibrant.
Conclusion
Growing the best plants under your pergola will not only provide shade but will also transform your outdoor area into a beautiful retreat.
From the fragrant blooms of jasmine to the bold colors of trumpet vine, the right plants can elevate the beauty of your space and offer natural, cooling shade. So pick your favorites, and start building your lush, shaded paradise today!
