Patio plants – how to find the right type for your environment

Create a lush and inviting patio with the right plants for your climate and style
Plants
Plants
6 min
Patio plants can create a green and cosy outdoor space. Get inspiration for which types and brands you can choose, and learn how to find the plants that best suit your climate and your patio.
Violet Hernandez
Violet
Hernandez

Patio plants – how to find the right type for your environment

Create a lush and inviting patio with the right plants for your climate and style
Plants
Plants
6 min
Patio plants can create a green and cosy outdoor space. Get inspiration for which types and brands you can choose, and learn how to find the plants that best suit your climate and your patio.
Violet Hernandez
Violet
Hernandez

Patio plants can transform even the smallest balcony or terrace into a green oasis. Whether you want a colourful sea of flowers, a calm green expression or a practical herb garden, there are plants that suit your environment. The choice depends on sunlight, wind exposure and how much time you want to spend on maintenance.

In this article, you’ll get an overview of the factors to consider when choosing patio plants, as well as inspiration for different types and brands that can help you create a harmonious and durable planting.

The article presents a wide selection of patio plants – from flowering varieties to green shrubs and herbs. The aim is to provide an overview of the many possibilities so you can more easily find plants that suit your climate, your terrace and your personal style. The information about the plants is based on descriptions from manufacturers and retailers and is summarised to give a clear and inspiring overview.

Factors to consider when buying a patio plant

When choosing plants for the terrace, you should take both practical and aesthetic aspects into account. Here are some of the most important factors to consider.

1. Sun and wind conditions

The well-being of the plants depends largely on light and wind. A south-facing terrace requires plants that tolerate full sun and heat, while a north-facing terrace is better suited to shade-tolerant varieties. If you have an exposed balcony, you should choose robust plants that can withstand wind and drought.

2. Plant pots and drainage

The choice of pots has both aesthetic and practical significance. Make sure the pots have good drainage so the roots don’t stand in water. Materials such as clay and fibre cement are popular choices as they are both durable and decorative.

3. Watering and maintenance

Consider how much time you want to spend on care. Some plants require daily watering and pruning, while others manage with minimal attention. Self-watering pots can be a good solution if you want less maintenance.

4. Season and climate

Choose plants that suit the Danish climate. Some species thrive best as summer plants, while others can overwinter outdoors. By combining perennials and annuals, you can create a lively expression all year round.

5. Style and colours

Think about the look you want. Green plants create calm and harmony, while flowering varieties add colour and life. Herbs and small shrubs can add both fragrance and functionality if you want to combine decoration and utility.

Products in focus

1
Exotic outdoor charm
Chusan Palm
A hardy and evergreen palm that withstands Danish winters and adds an exotic touch to the garden or terrace with its fan-shaped green leaves.
Why it was chosen: The Chusan Palm was selected for its combination of robustness, winter hardiness, and decorative appearance. It represents one of the most cold-tolerant palms, suitable for both pots and planting in Danish gardens.

The Chusan Palm, also known as Trachycarpus fortunei, is one of the most cold-tolerant palms that can thrive in the Danish climate. It can withstand temperatures down to around -18 degrees and is therefore suitable for both planting in beds and as a potted plant on the terrace.

The palm has a robust, upright trunk with dark brown, fibrous bark and large, fan-shaped green leaves that give a striking, tropical appearance. It is evergreen and retains its foliage all year round, making it decorative in all seasons.

In Denmark, the Chusan Palm typically grows 3–4 metres tall, while in its natural habitat it can reach up to 10–12 metres. It grows moderately, about 7–20 cm per year after establishment. During the growing season, it continuously produces new leaves.

In June, the Chusan Palm develops small, yellow flowers in large clusters. Fruits only form if the plant is pollinated, as it is not self-pollinating. The fruits are not edible but have decorative value.

The Chusan Palm thrives best in sun to partial shade and in well-drained, nutrient-rich soil. It can be planted directly in the ground or in a spacious pot. For potted plants, winter protection or indoor overwintering is recommended, as the roots are sensitive to frost.

For optimal growth, the palm should be watered regularly during dry periods and fertilised in spring with a liquid fertiliser. In strong winter winds, the leaves can be tied up to protect them from damage.

  • Winter hardy: Withstands temperatures down to approx. -18 °C.
  • Evergreen: Retains its green, fan-shaped leaves all year round.
  • Decorative trunk: Robust, fibrous bark with a tropical appearance.
  • Suitable for pots and beds: Can be planted both outdoors and indoors with proper protection.
  • Blooms in June: Small, yellow flowers in clusters.

Pros and cons

  • Very cold-tolerant and robust
  • Evergreen and decorative all year round
  • Suitable for both pots and garden planting
  • Requires minimal care after establishment
  • Requires winter protection when potted
  • Not self-pollinating – requires both male and female plants for fruit formation
  • May take a year to establish before growth really begins

Pros and cons

Pros

  • Very cold-tolerant and robust
  • Evergreen and decorative all year round
  • Suitable for both pots and garden planting
  • Requires minimal care after establishment

Cons

  • Requires winter protection when potted
  • Not self-pollinating – requires both male and female plants for fruit formation
  • May take a year to establish before growth really begins

Pros

  • Very cold-tolerant and robust
  • Evergreen and decorative all year round
  • Suitable for both pots and garden planting
  • Requires minimal care after establishment

Cons

  • Requires winter protection when potted
  • Not self-pollinating – requires both male and female plants for fruit formation
  • May take a year to establish before growth really begins
Pros: The plant is very cold-tolerant and robust, evergreen and decorative all year round, suitable for both pots and garden planting, and requires minimal care after establishment.
Cons: It requires winter protection when potted, is not self-pollinating and therefore needs both male and female plants for fruit formation, and it may take a year to establish before growth really begins.
Pros: The plant is very cold-tolerant and robust, evergreen and decorative all year round, suitable for both pots and garden planting, and requires minimal care after establishment.
Cons: It requires winter protection when potted, is not self-pollinating and therefore needs both male and female plants for fruit formation, and it may take a year to establish before growth really begins.

Specifications

  • Botanical name: Trachycarpus fortunei
  • Danish name: Chusan Palm
  • Category: Terrace Plants / Trachycarpus
  • Height (in Denmark): 300–400 cm
  • Growth: Vigorous, 7–20 cm per year
  • Leaf type: Evergreen
  • Leaf colour: Green
  • Flower colour: Yellow
  • Flowering: June
  • Flowering period: Summer
  • Growth form: Parasol shape
  • Placement: Sun to partial shade
  • Optimal growing conditions: Full sun, Partial shade
  • Wind conditions: Should be placed in a sheltered location
  • Use: Pots, Windbreaks, Gardens
  • Fruit/berries: No
  • Autumn colour: Green
  • Bee-friendly: Yes
  • Origin: Japan and China
2
Tropical elegance
Phoenix palm
The Phoenix palm, also known as Phoenix canariensis or Canary Island date palm, is a robust and decorative plant that creates a Mediterranean atmosphere both outdoors and indoors. It thrives in sun to partial shade and can be overwintered indoors.
Why it was chosen: The Phoenix palm was selected as a representative of hardy, exotic container plants that combine a decorative appearance with relatively simple care. It is suitable for comparison with other terrace and indoor palms.

The Phoenix palm (Phoenix canariensis) is a classic palm species originally from the Canary Islands. It is characterised by its strong, single-stemmed growth and long, feather-shaped leaves, which give it a distinctive tropical appearance.

Under Danish conditions, the plant typically grows to about two metres tall, while in its natural environment it can reach up to 15–20 metres. It grows slowly and over time develops a sturdy trunk with dark brown, patchy bark.

The leaves are dark green, evergreen, and arch gracefully from the centre, making the plant suitable as a solitary plant in pots on the terrace or as a decorative indoor plant. In the summer months, it can produce small yellow flowers, which later develop into small, inedible fruits in yellow and reddish hues.

The Phoenix palm thrives best in full sun or partial shade and prefers well-drained, nutrient-rich soil. It tolerates short-term temperature drops down to around freezing point but should be protected or moved indoors during the winter period.

When planting, it is recommended to use a spacious pot with well-drained soil and possibly add slow-release fertiliser in spring. In the winter months, the root zone can be covered with a layer of soil to retain warmth and moisture.

  • Decorative palm: Creates an exotic and Mediterranean-inspired look in the garden or home.
  • Suitable for pots: Thrives well in large containers and can be moved as needed.
  • Hardy plant: Tolerates temperatures down to around freezing with proper protection.
  • Evergreen: Retains its green foliage all year round.
  • Slow growth: Develops gradually and requires minimal pruning.

Pros and cons

  • Gives a distinctive, exotic appearance
  • Can be used both outdoors and indoors
  • Relatively undemanding and hardy
  • Evergreen and decorative all year round
  • Requires frost protection in winter
  • Slow growth requires patience
  • The fruits are not edible

Pros and cons

Pros

  • Gives a distinctive, exotic appearance
  • Can be used both outdoors and indoors
  • Relatively undemanding and hardy
  • Evergreen and decorative all year round

Cons

  • Requires frost protection in winter
  • Slow growth requires patience
  • The fruits are not edible

Pros

  • Gives a distinctive, exotic appearance
  • Can be used both outdoors and indoors
  • Relatively undemanding and hardy
  • Evergreen and decorative all year round

Cons

  • Requires frost protection in winter
  • Slow growth requires patience
  • The fruits are not edible
Pros: The plant gives a distinctive and exotic appearance, can be used both outdoors and indoors, is relatively undemanding and hardy, and is evergreen and decorative all year round.
Cons: It requires frost protection in winter, grows slowly and therefore requires patience, and its fruits are not edible.
Pros: The plant gives a distinctive and exotic appearance, can be used both outdoors and indoors, is relatively undemanding and hardy, and is evergreen and decorative all year round.
Cons: It requires frost protection in winter, grows slowly and therefore requires patience, and its fruits are not edible.

Specifications

  • Botanical name: Phoenix canariensis
  • Danish name: Phoenix palm / Canary Island date palm
  • Category: Terrace Plants, Specialities
  • Height (under Danish conditions): Up to approx. 2 metres
  • Height (in natural environment): Up to 15–20 metres
  • Leaf colour: Dark green
  • Leaf type: Evergreen, feather-like
  • Growth form: Vase-shaped, upright with overhanging leaves
  • Flowering: June
  • Flower colour: Yellow
  • Fruit/berry: Yes, decorative but not edible
  • Flowering period: Summer
  • Placement: Sun to partial shade
  • Light conditions: Full sun, Partial shade
  • Growth: Moderate
  • Optimal growth conditions: Well-drained soil, sunny location
  • Use: Pots, terrace, garden
  • Autumn colour: Green
  • Ripening: September–October
  • Pot variant: 3.0 litres
3
Exotic outdoor charm
Chusan Palm
The Chusan Palm, also known as Trachycarpus fortunei, is a hardy and evergreen palm that can thrive in the Danish climate and adds an exotic touch to the garden or terrace.
Why it was chosen: The Chusan Palm was selected as an example of one of the most cold-tolerant palms suitable for both outdoor and indoor planting in temperate climates. It represents a combination of robustness, decorative appearance, and low maintenance.

The Chusan Palm (Trachycarpus fortunei) is one of the most cold-tolerant palms that can be grown in Denmark. It tolerates temperatures down to around -18 degrees and can therefore be planted directly in the garden or used as a potted plant on the terrace.

The palm has a strong, upright growth and develops a robust trunk with dark brown, fibrous bark. The large, fan-shaped leaves are green and evergreen, giving the plant a tropical appearance all year round.

In its natural environment, the Chusan Palm can grow up to 10–12 metres tall, but in Denmark it typically reaches a height of 3–4 metres. It grows moderately, about 7–20 cm per year after establishment.

Flowering occurs in June, when the palm produces many small, yellow flowers in clusters. Fruits develop only if both male and female plants are present, as the species is not self-pollinating.

The Chusan Palm thrives best in sun to partial shade and in well-drained, nutrient-rich soil. It can be planted in a bed or pot, but potted plants should be protected in winter or overwintered indoors to avoid frost damage to the roots.

When planting, it is recommended to use well-drained exotic soil and to provide the plant with support during the first seasons. During dry periods, it should be watered regularly, and fertilising in spring promotes growth.

  • Cold-tolerant palm: Can withstand temperatures down to approx. -18 °C.
  • Evergreen: Retains its green, fan-shaped leaves all year round.
  • Decorative trunk: Robust, fibrous bark with a characteristic structure.
  • Suitable for pots and beds: Can be grown both outdoors and indoors.
  • Blooms in June: Produces small, yellow flowers in clusters.

Pros and cons

  • Very hardy and cold-tolerant
  • Evergreen and decorative all year round
  • Suitable for both garden and terrace
  • Requires limited maintenance after establishment
  • Potted plants require winter protection against frost
  • Fruits only form with pollination between male and female plants
  • Growth is slow during the first years after planting

Pros and cons

Pros

  • Very hardy and cold-tolerant
  • Evergreen and decorative all year round
  • Suitable for both garden and terrace
  • Requires limited maintenance after establishment

Cons

  • Potted plants require winter protection against frost
  • Fruits only form with pollination between male and female plants
  • Growth is slow during the first years after planting

Pros

  • Very hardy and cold-tolerant
  • Evergreen and decorative all year round
  • Suitable for both garden and terrace
  • Requires limited maintenance after establishment

Cons

  • Potted plants require winter protection against frost
  • Fruits only form with pollination between male and female plants
  • Growth is slow during the first years after planting
Pros: The plant is very hardy and cold-tolerant, evergreen and decorative all year round, suitable for both garden and terrace, and requires only limited maintenance after establishment.
Cons: Potted plants need winter protection against frost, fruits only form with pollination between male and female plants, and growth is slow in the first years after planting.
Pros: The plant is very hardy and cold-tolerant, evergreen and decorative all year round, suitable for both garden and terrace, and requires only limited maintenance after establishment.
Cons: Potted plants need winter protection against frost, fruits only form with pollination between male and female plants, and growth is slow in the first years after planting.

Specifications

  • Botanical name: Trachycarpus fortunei
  • Danish name: Chusan Palm
  • Category: Terrace Plants
  • Height (mature plant): 300–400 cm
  • Leaf type: Evergreen
  • Leaf colour: Green
  • Flower colour: Yellow
  • Flowering: June
  • Flowering period: Summer
  • Growth form: Parasol shape
  • Growth: Vigorous
  • Placement: Sun to partial shade
  • Optimal growing conditions: Full sun, Partial shade
  • Wind conditions: Should be placed in a sheltered location
  • Use: Pots, Windbreaks, Gardens
  • Fruit/berries: No
  • Autumn colour: Green
  • Bee-friendly: Yes
  • Origin: Japan and China
4
Tropical elegance
Phoenix palm
The Phoenix palm, also known as the Canary Island date palm, is a robust and decorative plant with dark green, feather-like foliage that creates a Mediterranean atmosphere both outdoors and indoors.
Why it was chosen: The Phoenix palm was selected as a representative of hardy, exotic terrace plants that combine a decorative appearance with relatively simple care. It demonstrates how tropical plants can thrive in a Nordic climate with proper care.

The Phoenix palm (Phoenix canariensis) is a classic ornamental palm originating from the Canary Islands. It is characterised by its strong, single-stemmed growth and long, feather-shaped leaves, which give it a striking and exotic appearance.

In its natural environment, the palm can grow up to 15–20 metres tall, but under Danish conditions it typically reaches a height of around 2 metres. It is therefore well suited as a terrace plant in large pots or as a houseplant in bright rooms.

The leaves are dark green and evergreen, meaning the plant retains its foliage all year round. The trunk is robust with a characteristic brown, patchy bark that contributes to the plant’s sculptural appearance.

In the summer months, the palm can produce small yellow flowers that later develop into decorative but inedible fruits in yellow and reddish hues. These fruits often attract birds to the garden.

The Phoenix palm thrives best in full sun or partial shade and prefers well-drained, nutrient-rich soil – ideally an exotic soil mix. It tolerates temperatures down to around freezing but should be protected or moved indoors during the winter period.

When planting, it is recommended to use a spacious pot so the roots have room to develop. A slow-release fertiliser in spring and a layer of soil around the root zone during the winter months can promote healthy growth.

  • Decorative palm: Creates an exotic and Mediterranean-inspired look in the garden or home.
  • Evergreen: Retains its dark green foliage all year round.
  • Suitable for pots: Works well as a terrace or indoor plant in spacious containers.
  • Hardy: Tolerates temperatures down to around freezing with appropriate protection.
  • Slow-growing: Requires minimal pruning and maintenance.

Pros and cons

  • Gives a striking, tropical look to the garden or home
  • Can be used both outdoors and indoors
  • Relatively undemanding and hardy compared to other palms
  • Evergreen and decorative all year round
  • Requires frost protection or indoor storage during winter
  • Slow growth means larger plants take time to develop
  • The fruits are not edible

Pros and cons

Pros

  • Gives a striking, tropical look to the garden or home
  • Can be used both outdoors and indoors
  • Relatively undemanding and hardy compared to other palms
  • Evergreen and decorative all year round

Cons

  • Requires frost protection or indoor storage during winter
  • Slow growth means larger plants take time to develop
  • The fruits are not edible

Pros

  • Gives a striking, tropical look to the garden or home
  • Can be used both outdoors and indoors
  • Relatively undemanding and hardy compared to other palms
  • Evergreen and decorative all year round

Cons

  • Requires frost protection or indoor storage during winter
  • Slow growth means larger plants take time to develop
  • The fruits are not edible
Pros: This palm gives a striking, tropical look to the garden or home, can be used both outdoors and indoors, is relatively undemanding and hardy compared to other palms, and is evergreen and decorative all year round.
Cons: It requires frost protection or indoor storage during winter, grows slowly so larger plants take time to develop, and the fruits are not edible.
Pros: This palm gives a striking, tropical look to the garden or home, can be used both outdoors and indoors, is relatively undemanding and hardy compared to other palms, and is evergreen and decorative all year round.
Cons: It requires frost protection or indoor storage during winter, grows slowly so larger plants take time to develop, and the fruits are not edible.

Specifications

  • Botanical name: Phoenix canariensis
  • Danish name: Phoenix palm / Canary Island date palm
  • Category: Terrace plants, Specialities
  • Growth form: Vase-shaped, single-stemmed
  • Height (under Danish conditions): Up to approx. 2 metres
  • Height (in natural environment): Up to 15–20 metres
  • Leaf colour: Dark green
  • Leaf type: Evergreen, feather-like
  • Flower colour: Yellow
  • Flowering: June
  • Fruit/berries: Yes, decorative but inedible
  • Flowering period: Summer
  • Placement: Sun to partial shade
  • Light conditions: Full sun, Partial shade
  • Growth: Moderate
  • Optimal growth conditions: Well-drained, nutrient-rich soil
  • Use: Pots, terraces, gardens
  • Autumn colour: Green
  • Ripening: September–October

Product descriptions

1
Exotic outdoor charm
Chusan Palm
A hardy and evergreen palm that withstands Danish winters and adds an exotic touch to the garden or terrace with its fan-shaped green leaves.
Why it was chosen: The Chusan Palm was selected for its combination of robustness, winter hardiness, and decorative appearance. It represents one of the most cold-tolerant palms, suitable for both pots and planting in Danish gardens.

The Chusan Palm, also known as Trachycarpus fortunei, is one of the most cold-tolerant palms that can thrive in the Danish climate. It can withstand temperatures down to around -18 degrees and is therefore suitable for both planting in beds and as a potted plant on the terrace.

The palm has a robust, upright trunk with dark brown, fibrous bark and large, fan-shaped green leaves that give a striking, tropical appearance. It is evergreen and retains its foliage all year round, making it decorative in all seasons.

In Denmark, the Chusan Palm typically grows 3–4 metres tall, while in its natural habitat it can reach up to 10–12 metres. It grows moderately, about 7–20 cm per year after establishment. During the growing season, it continuously produces new leaves.

In June, the Chusan Palm develops small, yellow flowers in large clusters. Fruits only form if the plant is pollinated, as it is not self-pollinating. The fruits are not edible but have decorative value.

The Chusan Palm thrives best in sun to partial shade and in well-drained, nutrient-rich soil. It can be planted directly in the ground or in a spacious pot. For potted plants, winter protection or indoor overwintering is recommended, as the roots are sensitive to frost.

For optimal growth, the palm should be watered regularly during dry periods and fertilised in spring with a liquid fertiliser. In strong winter winds, the leaves can be tied up to protect them from damage.

  • Winter hardy: Withstands temperatures down to approx. -18 °C.
  • Evergreen: Retains its green, fan-shaped leaves all year round.
  • Decorative trunk: Robust, fibrous bark with a tropical appearance.
  • Suitable for pots and beds: Can be planted both outdoors and indoors with proper protection.
  • Blooms in June: Small, yellow flowers in clusters.

Pros and cons

  • Very cold-tolerant and robust
  • Evergreen and decorative all year round
  • Suitable for both pots and garden planting
  • Requires minimal care after establishment
  • Requires winter protection when potted
  • Not self-pollinating – requires both male and female plants for fruit formation
  • May take a year to establish before growth really begins

Pros and cons

Pros

  • Very cold-tolerant and robust
  • Evergreen and decorative all year round
  • Suitable for both pots and garden planting
  • Requires minimal care after establishment

Cons

  • Requires winter protection when potted
  • Not self-pollinating – requires both male and female plants for fruit formation
  • May take a year to establish before growth really begins

Pros

  • Very cold-tolerant and robust
  • Evergreen and decorative all year round
  • Suitable for both pots and garden planting
  • Requires minimal care after establishment

Cons

  • Requires winter protection when potted
  • Not self-pollinating – requires both male and female plants for fruit formation
  • May take a year to establish before growth really begins
Pros: The plant is very cold-tolerant and robust, evergreen and decorative all year round, suitable for both pots and garden planting, and requires minimal care after establishment.
Cons: It requires winter protection when potted, is not self-pollinating and therefore needs both male and female plants for fruit formation, and it may take a year to establish before growth really begins.
Pros: The plant is very cold-tolerant and robust, evergreen and decorative all year round, suitable for both pots and garden planting, and requires minimal care after establishment.
Cons: It requires winter protection when potted, is not self-pollinating and therefore needs both male and female plants for fruit formation, and it may take a year to establish before growth really begins.

Specifications

  • Botanical name: Trachycarpus fortunei
  • Danish name: Chusan Palm
  • Category: Terrace Plants / Trachycarpus
  • Height (in Denmark): 300–400 cm
  • Growth: Vigorous, 7–20 cm per year
  • Leaf type: Evergreen
  • Leaf colour: Green
  • Flower colour: Yellow
  • Flowering: June
  • Flowering period: Summer
  • Growth form: Parasol shape
  • Placement: Sun to partial shade
  • Optimal growing conditions: Full sun, Partial shade
  • Wind conditions: Should be placed in a sheltered location
  • Use: Pots, Windbreaks, Gardens
  • Fruit/berries: No
  • Autumn colour: Green
  • Bee-friendly: Yes
  • Origin: Japan and China
2
Tropical elegance
Phoenix palm
The Phoenix palm, also known as Phoenix canariensis or Canary Island date palm, is a robust and decorative plant that creates a Mediterranean atmosphere both outdoors and indoors. It thrives in sun to partial shade and can be overwintered indoors.
Why it was chosen: The Phoenix palm was selected as a representative of hardy, exotic container plants that combine a decorative appearance with relatively simple care. It is suitable for comparison with other terrace and indoor palms.

The Phoenix palm (Phoenix canariensis) is a classic palm species originally from the Canary Islands. It is characterised by its strong, single-stemmed growth and long, feather-shaped leaves, which give it a distinctive tropical appearance.

Under Danish conditions, the plant typically grows to about two metres tall, while in its natural environment it can reach up to 15–20 metres. It grows slowly and over time develops a sturdy trunk with dark brown, patchy bark.

The leaves are dark green, evergreen, and arch gracefully from the centre, making the plant suitable as a solitary plant in pots on the terrace or as a decorative indoor plant. In the summer months, it can produce small yellow flowers, which later develop into small, inedible fruits in yellow and reddish hues.

The Phoenix palm thrives best in full sun or partial shade and prefers well-drained, nutrient-rich soil. It tolerates short-term temperature drops down to around freezing point but should be protected or moved indoors during the winter period.

When planting, it is recommended to use a spacious pot with well-drained soil and possibly add slow-release fertiliser in spring. In the winter months, the root zone can be covered with a layer of soil to retain warmth and moisture.

  • Decorative palm: Creates an exotic and Mediterranean-inspired look in the garden or home.
  • Suitable for pots: Thrives well in large containers and can be moved as needed.
  • Hardy plant: Tolerates temperatures down to around freezing with proper protection.
  • Evergreen: Retains its green foliage all year round.
  • Slow growth: Develops gradually and requires minimal pruning.

Pros and cons

  • Gives a distinctive, exotic appearance
  • Can be used both outdoors and indoors
  • Relatively undemanding and hardy
  • Evergreen and decorative all year round
  • Requires frost protection in winter
  • Slow growth requires patience
  • The fruits are not edible

Pros and cons

Pros

  • Gives a distinctive, exotic appearance
  • Can be used both outdoors and indoors
  • Relatively undemanding and hardy
  • Evergreen and decorative all year round

Cons

  • Requires frost protection in winter
  • Slow growth requires patience
  • The fruits are not edible

Pros

  • Gives a distinctive, exotic appearance
  • Can be used both outdoors and indoors
  • Relatively undemanding and hardy
  • Evergreen and decorative all year round

Cons

  • Requires frost protection in winter
  • Slow growth requires patience
  • The fruits are not edible
Pros: The plant gives a distinctive and exotic appearance, can be used both outdoors and indoors, is relatively undemanding and hardy, and is evergreen and decorative all year round.
Cons: It requires frost protection in winter, grows slowly and therefore requires patience, and its fruits are not edible.
Pros: The plant gives a distinctive and exotic appearance, can be used both outdoors and indoors, is relatively undemanding and hardy, and is evergreen and decorative all year round.
Cons: It requires frost protection in winter, grows slowly and therefore requires patience, and its fruits are not edible.

Specifications

  • Botanical name: Phoenix canariensis
  • Danish name: Phoenix palm / Canary Island date palm
  • Category: Terrace Plants, Specialities
  • Height (under Danish conditions): Up to approx. 2 metres
  • Height (in natural environment): Up to 15–20 metres
  • Leaf colour: Dark green
  • Leaf type: Evergreen, feather-like
  • Growth form: Vase-shaped, upright with overhanging leaves
  • Flowering: June
  • Flower colour: Yellow
  • Fruit/berry: Yes, decorative but not edible
  • Flowering period: Summer
  • Placement: Sun to partial shade
  • Light conditions: Full sun, Partial shade
  • Growth: Moderate
  • Optimal growth conditions: Well-drained soil, sunny location
  • Use: Pots, terrace, garden
  • Autumn colour: Green
  • Ripening: September–October
  • Pot variant: 3.0 litres
3
Exotic outdoor charm
Chusan Palm
The Chusan Palm, also known as Trachycarpus fortunei, is a hardy and evergreen palm that can thrive in the Danish climate and adds an exotic touch to the garden or terrace.
Why it was chosen: The Chusan Palm was selected as an example of one of the most cold-tolerant palms suitable for both outdoor and indoor planting in temperate climates. It represents a combination of robustness, decorative appearance, and low maintenance.

The Chusan Palm (Trachycarpus fortunei) is one of the most cold-tolerant palms that can be grown in Denmark. It tolerates temperatures down to around -18 degrees and can therefore be planted directly in the garden or used as a potted plant on the terrace.

The palm has a strong, upright growth and develops a robust trunk with dark brown, fibrous bark. The large, fan-shaped leaves are green and evergreen, giving the plant a tropical appearance all year round.

In its natural environment, the Chusan Palm can grow up to 10–12 metres tall, but in Denmark it typically reaches a height of 3–4 metres. It grows moderately, about 7–20 cm per year after establishment.

Flowering occurs in June, when the palm produces many small, yellow flowers in clusters. Fruits develop only if both male and female plants are present, as the species is not self-pollinating.

The Chusan Palm thrives best in sun to partial shade and in well-drained, nutrient-rich soil. It can be planted in a bed or pot, but potted plants should be protected in winter or overwintered indoors to avoid frost damage to the roots.

When planting, it is recommended to use well-drained exotic soil and to provide the plant with support during the first seasons. During dry periods, it should be watered regularly, and fertilising in spring promotes growth.

  • Cold-tolerant palm: Can withstand temperatures down to approx. -18 °C.
  • Evergreen: Retains its green, fan-shaped leaves all year round.
  • Decorative trunk: Robust, fibrous bark with a characteristic structure.
  • Suitable for pots and beds: Can be grown both outdoors and indoors.
  • Blooms in June: Produces small, yellow flowers in clusters.

Pros and cons

  • Very hardy and cold-tolerant
  • Evergreen and decorative all year round
  • Suitable for both garden and terrace
  • Requires limited maintenance after establishment
  • Potted plants require winter protection against frost
  • Fruits only form with pollination between male and female plants
  • Growth is slow during the first years after planting

Pros and cons

Pros

  • Very hardy and cold-tolerant
  • Evergreen and decorative all year round
  • Suitable for both garden and terrace
  • Requires limited maintenance after establishment

Cons

  • Potted plants require winter protection against frost
  • Fruits only form with pollination between male and female plants
  • Growth is slow during the first years after planting

Pros

  • Very hardy and cold-tolerant
  • Evergreen and decorative all year round
  • Suitable for both garden and terrace
  • Requires limited maintenance after establishment

Cons

  • Potted plants require winter protection against frost
  • Fruits only form with pollination between male and female plants
  • Growth is slow during the first years after planting
Pros: The plant is very hardy and cold-tolerant, evergreen and decorative all year round, suitable for both garden and terrace, and requires only limited maintenance after establishment.
Cons: Potted plants need winter protection against frost, fruits only form with pollination between male and female plants, and growth is slow in the first years after planting.
Pros: The plant is very hardy and cold-tolerant, evergreen and decorative all year round, suitable for both garden and terrace, and requires only limited maintenance after establishment.
Cons: Potted plants need winter protection against frost, fruits only form with pollination between male and female plants, and growth is slow in the first years after planting.

Specifications

  • Botanical name: Trachycarpus fortunei
  • Danish name: Chusan Palm
  • Category: Terrace Plants
  • Height (mature plant): 300–400 cm
  • Leaf type: Evergreen
  • Leaf colour: Green
  • Flower colour: Yellow
  • Flowering: June
  • Flowering period: Summer
  • Growth form: Parasol shape
  • Growth: Vigorous
  • Placement: Sun to partial shade
  • Optimal growing conditions: Full sun, Partial shade
  • Wind conditions: Should be placed in a sheltered location
  • Use: Pots, Windbreaks, Gardens
  • Fruit/berries: No
  • Autumn colour: Green
  • Bee-friendly: Yes
  • Origin: Japan and China
4
Tropical elegance
Phoenix palm
The Phoenix palm, also known as the Canary Island date palm, is a robust and decorative plant with dark green, feather-like foliage that creates a Mediterranean atmosphere both outdoors and indoors.
Why it was chosen: The Phoenix palm was selected as a representative of hardy, exotic terrace plants that combine a decorative appearance with relatively simple care. It demonstrates how tropical plants can thrive in a Nordic climate with proper care.

The Phoenix palm (Phoenix canariensis) is a classic ornamental palm originating from the Canary Islands. It is characterised by its strong, single-stemmed growth and long, feather-shaped leaves, which give it a striking and exotic appearance.

In its natural environment, the palm can grow up to 15–20 metres tall, but under Danish conditions it typically reaches a height of around 2 metres. It is therefore well suited as a terrace plant in large pots or as a houseplant in bright rooms.

The leaves are dark green and evergreen, meaning the plant retains its foliage all year round. The trunk is robust with a characteristic brown, patchy bark that contributes to the plant’s sculptural appearance.

In the summer months, the palm can produce small yellow flowers that later develop into decorative but inedible fruits in yellow and reddish hues. These fruits often attract birds to the garden.

The Phoenix palm thrives best in full sun or partial shade and prefers well-drained, nutrient-rich soil – ideally an exotic soil mix. It tolerates temperatures down to around freezing but should be protected or moved indoors during the winter period.

When planting, it is recommended to use a spacious pot so the roots have room to develop. A slow-release fertiliser in spring and a layer of soil around the root zone during the winter months can promote healthy growth.

  • Decorative palm: Creates an exotic and Mediterranean-inspired look in the garden or home.
  • Evergreen: Retains its dark green foliage all year round.
  • Suitable for pots: Works well as a terrace or indoor plant in spacious containers.
  • Hardy: Tolerates temperatures down to around freezing with appropriate protection.
  • Slow-growing: Requires minimal pruning and maintenance.

Pros and cons

  • Gives a striking, tropical look to the garden or home
  • Can be used both outdoors and indoors
  • Relatively undemanding and hardy compared to other palms
  • Evergreen and decorative all year round
  • Requires frost protection or indoor storage during winter
  • Slow growth means larger plants take time to develop
  • The fruits are not edible

Pros and cons

Pros

  • Gives a striking, tropical look to the garden or home
  • Can be used both outdoors and indoors
  • Relatively undemanding and hardy compared to other palms
  • Evergreen and decorative all year round

Cons

  • Requires frost protection or indoor storage during winter
  • Slow growth means larger plants take time to develop
  • The fruits are not edible

Pros

  • Gives a striking, tropical look to the garden or home
  • Can be used both outdoors and indoors
  • Relatively undemanding and hardy compared to other palms
  • Evergreen and decorative all year round

Cons

  • Requires frost protection or indoor storage during winter
  • Slow growth means larger plants take time to develop
  • The fruits are not edible
Pros: This palm gives a striking, tropical look to the garden or home, can be used both outdoors and indoors, is relatively undemanding and hardy compared to other palms, and is evergreen and decorative all year round.
Cons: It requires frost protection or indoor storage during winter, grows slowly so larger plants take time to develop, and the fruits are not edible.
Pros: This palm gives a striking, tropical look to the garden or home, can be used both outdoors and indoors, is relatively undemanding and hardy compared to other palms, and is evergreen and decorative all year round.
Cons: It requires frost protection or indoor storage during winter, grows slowly so larger plants take time to develop, and the fruits are not edible.

Specifications

  • Botanical name: Phoenix canariensis
  • Danish name: Phoenix palm / Canary Island date palm
  • Category: Terrace plants, Specialities
  • Growth form: Vase-shaped, single-stemmed
  • Height (under Danish conditions): Up to approx. 2 metres
  • Height (in natural environment): Up to 15–20 metres
  • Leaf colour: Dark green
  • Leaf type: Evergreen, feather-like
  • Flower colour: Yellow
  • Flowering: June
  • Fruit/berries: Yes, decorative but inedible
  • Flowering period: Summer
  • Placement: Sun to partial shade
  • Light conditions: Full sun, Partial shade
  • Growth: Moderate
  • Optimal growth conditions: Well-drained, nutrient-rich soil
  • Use: Pots, terraces, gardens
  • Autumn colour: Green
  • Ripening: September–October

Different types of patio plants

Patio plants come in many varieties, each contributing its own look and characteristics. Here are some of the most popular types.

1. Flowering plants

Summer flowers such as petunia, geranium and marguerite add colour and life to the terrace. They require regular watering and fertilising but reward you with a long flowering period. Flowering plants are ideal for creating a romantic or lively look.

2. Green plants and ornamental grasses

Plants such as boxwood, lavender and ornamental grasses provide structure and calm. They are often more hardy and require less maintenance than flowering varieties. The combination of different green shades can create an elegant and modern terrace.

3. Herbs and edible plants

Basil, rosemary, mint and thyme are popular choices for the terrace. They smell wonderful, can be used in cooking and thrive well in pots. Herb plants add both aesthetics and functionality to your outdoor space.

4. Shrubs and small trees

For a more striking look, you can choose smaller shrubs or trees such as olive, laurel or Japanese maple. They create height and structure and can act as natural dividers on the terrace.

5. Seasonal plants

By changing plants according to the season, you can keep the terrace lively all year round. Spring bulbs, summer flowers and autumn heather can replace each other and ensure a varied look.

Different brands of patio plants

There are many producers and nurseries that offer patio plants in different qualities and price ranges.

Plantorama

Plantorama has a wide selection of patio plants – from classic flowers to exotic varieties. They offer both inspiration and advice on how to create a harmonious planting.

Jespers Planteskole

Jespers Planteskole is known for quality and a large selection of both common and rarer plants. They focus on plants that thrive in the Danish climate.

Bilka Garden Centre

Bilka offers a large range of affordable patio plants and pots. The range changes with the season, so you can always find current plants for your terrace.

Plantetorvet.dk

Plantetorvet.dk is an online nursery with a wide selection of both flowering and green plants. They deliver directly to your door and offer detailed descriptions of the plants’ needs.

Silvan Garden

Silvan combines practical solutions with a selection of plants and accessories. Here you can find everything from pots and soil to robust patio plants suitable for both beginners and experienced garden enthusiasts.

Frequently asked questions

Which plants are best suited for a sunny terrace?

Plants such as lavender, geranium and olive tree thrive in full sun. They tolerate heat and only require regular watering to stay beautiful throughout the summer.

What can I plant on a shady terrace?

Shade-tolerant plants such as hosta, ferns and hydrangea are good choices. They provide a lush look even where the sun rarely reaches.

How do I prevent the plants from drying out?

Use pots with drainage holes and water regularly. Self-watering pots or irrigation systems can be a great help, especially during warm periods.

Can patio plants overwinter outdoors?

Some perennials such as boxwood, heather and evergreen shrubs can survive the winter if protected from frost. Pots should be insulated or moved to shelter.

How often should I fertilise patio plants?

Most patio plants benefit from fertilising every other week during the growing season. Use liquid fertiliser mixed with water for an even nutrient supply.