As temperatures rise, gardens can suffer from intense heat, but certain plants can help cool the surrounding air. Country Living has identified seven plant types that naturally block sunlight and release water vapour through their leaves, creating a cooling effect ideal for patios and seating areas.
Banana Plants and Elephant Ears
Dr Russell Sharp, founder of a biotechnology company, recommends hardy banana plants and elephant ears for their large tropical-style leaves that create shade around seating and dining spaces. He notes they require regular watering and good drainage, but may struggle in waterlogged compost during rainy periods.
Large-Leaved Plants
Plants such as castor oil plants, giant rhubarbs, leopard plants, and large hostas provide ample shade with their foliage. Dr Sharp explains that large-leaved plants are particularly effective because they create broad shade and reduce heat radiating from hard surfaces. They rely more on water evaporation through pores than wind for cooling, releasing far more water.
Ferns
Ferns thrive in lower light conditions and bring a cooling feel to a garden by trapping moisture, making the air feel fresher.
Honeysuckle
For smaller gardens, climbers like honeysuckle are a smart option, adding foliage without taking up ground space. Dr Sharp notes that honeysuckle softens heat around fences and seating areas.
Ornamental Grasses
Tall ornamental grasses, such as maiden grass, are prized for their eye-catching flower plumes and can help keep gardens cooler once established. They thrive when planted in full sun.
Amelanchier
Amelanchier, a genus of shrubs and small trees, produces small, round berries that emerge red and mature to dark purple-black in summer. Planting soft ground cover beneath them can maximise their cooling effect.
Acer Trees
Acer trees are an excellent choice for cooler gardens, as their leafy canopies provide welcome shade and lower the temperature beneath them. In general, plants absorb far less heat than materials like stone or decking, so increasing planting beds or introducing large containers with leafy plants can create a cooler feel throughout the garden during heatwaves.
