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10 Mediterranean plants that thrive in UK gardens — and will cope with hotter summers
Grow a beautiful drought-tolerant garden with these varieties
Mediterranean gardens have long been popular in Britain, but as our summers are expected to get hotter, they're becoming more than just desirable – they could soon be a necessity.
As roses, hydrangeas and peonies wilt in the heat, plants that are native to, or thrive in, the balmy Mediterranean climate could be the key to keeping your garden looking its best.
"People often think gardens are destined to struggle in a heatwave, but there are plenty of beautiful plants that positively thrive in hot, sunny conditions," says Peter McDermott, founder of online garden centre YouGarden.
"Many Mediterranean varieties are used to coping with periods of drought and are a brilliant option if people want a garden that looks lush and impressive without constant watering.”
Below, we've rounded up 10 tough plants that won't just cope but thrive in the heat.
Olive tree
To Peter, olive trees are the ultimate Mediterranean champions. "
They love sunshine, cope well with dry spells and instantly give patios and gardens a holiday feel," he says. "They're a great choice for people wanting something stylish and generally low-maintenance."
Lavender
Lavender may be a staple in many British gardens, but this tough plant is originally from the Mediterranean.
"I would recommend Lavender 'Hidcote', a popular English lavender that is perfect for mass planting," says Paul Parker, gardening expert at plant and perennial specialist J. Parker's. "Its evergreen, silvery-grey foliage will add interest to your gravel garden all year round."
Gaura
This plant, native to the prairies and grasslands of the southern United States, copes excellently in hot climates.
"Gaura may look like a delicate, free-flowering perennial, but in reality, it is tough and tolerant of drought and heat," says Paul. "It produces beautiful white, star-shaped flowers that are incredibly rich in nectar and pollen, making them ideal for attracting bees and other pollinators to the garden."
Agapanthus
With its blue flower clusters growing on tall, leafless stems, agapanthus brings colour and drama to any border – and it isn't easily spooked by the heat.
"Agapanthus is one of my favourite summer plants because it combines elegance with resilience," says Peter. "It produces beautiful architectural blooms and is surprisingly tolerant of hot weather once established."
Nepeta
Like lavender, nepeta is a dependable perennial with slender spikes of lilac summer flowers and aromatic leaves.
"The Nepeta faassenii variety is a dwarf catmint that releases an intoxicating aroma when disturbed, adding sensory interest to your gravel garden display," says Paul.
Citrus trees
Citrus trees are another great contender for gardens inspired by the Mediterranean.
"Container-grown citrus trees, figs and bay trees are brilliant for adding fragrance, texture and a real Mediterranean atmosphere," says Peter. "They work particularly well on terraces and patios where people can enjoy them up close."
Palm trees
Palm trees aren't just for the sun-soaked avenues of California or southern Spain. Thanks to the UK's mild climate, they're also at home here – and are likely to become even more common as summers get hotter.
"Phoenix palms and fan palms are particularly good options for sunny, sheltered spots and are becoming increasingly popular with UK gardeners," says Peter.
Bougainvillea
Go on holiday to Greece or Spain, and you'll spot these colourful beauties adorning streets and squares, soaking up the abundant sunshine.
"If you've ever wandered through a Mediterranean town lined with vibrant flowers, chances are you've spotted oleanders or bougainvillea," says Peter. "They thrive in warmth, produce masses of colour and are fantastic statement plants for patios."
Euphorbia
Wide varieties of this yellow-flowering plant are native to the Mediterranean, such as Euphorbia characias, also known as Mediterranean spurge (pictured).
"Euphorbia is both low-maintenance and drought-resilient," says Paul. "I recommend Euphorbia 'Bonfire', a popular spring perennial with yellow flowers and colourful foliage that changes from green and purple to burgundy in summer before turning a fiery red in late summer."
Oleander
Like bougainvillea, oleander is a staple of the Mediterranean. Bring its vibrant beauty and drought tolerance to your garden, and enjoy colour without fearing it will fade in a heatwave.
Wanda Sachs is the Multiplatform Writer for Country Living and House Beautiful, exploring the latest in gardening, wildlife and sustainable living alongside interiors and property. She is particularly interested in human-interest stories, the intersection of design and pop culture, and the evolving relationship between urban and rural life. Previously, she served as Associate Editor at The Berliner in Berlin, where she reported on culture and fashion. Wanda studied English and German at the Goethe University Frankfurt and Exeter University.
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