Outdoor plants go a long way toward helping your home make a great first impression. While selecting landscaping often comes down to taste, a good rule of thumb is to create a nice mix of height and include a variety of flowering shrubs as well as year-round greenery.

Let’s take a look at six landscaping options that will make your home’s exterior stand out for all the right reasons.

Evergreen Boxwoods

Evergreen boxwoods are always in season. These cold-hardy shrubs feature shiny dark green leaves that require very little pruning. Plant several together to form a low, thick hedge. They work well as an attractive, deer-resistant border as well.

Hydrangeas

If you crave a pop of color, you can’t go wrong with hydrangeas, which flower from late spring through late-summer. Easy to grow, these shrubs spread quickly and offer plenty of leafy ground coverage, making them a great value. You can also save money by skipping the florist and cutting these pink and blue blossoms to create your own stunning bouquets.

Hostas

Shade-loving hostas return year after year and serve as simple and elegant borders. Though their delicate purple flowers bloom briefly in mid-summer, their lush leaves thrive from spring through fall and come in varying shades of green. They flourish quickly so leave plenty of space between each.

Thuja ‘Green Giant’ Evergreens

If you’re seeking privacy, you can’t go wrong with Thuja 'Green Giant’ evergreen trees, which are available in varying heights and grow three to five feet per year. These gorgeous greens are drought-resistant and disease-tolerant, and provide welcome color throughout all four seasons.

Cleveland Pear

A front yard showstopper, the Cleveland Pear is an ornamental tree beloved for its long-lasting white flowers. It naturally grows in a tight, symmetrical shape that doesn’t require any pruning or maintenance to look perennially perfect. Its shiny green leaves turn a brilliant orange during autumn.

Butterfly Bushes

Butterfly bushes are hardy, natural wonders that offer colorful red or purple flowers that attract winged creatures including hummingbirds and, of course, butterflies all summer long. Cut them back in early spring and watch them bloom through the fall with no maintenance necessary.

If you’re ready to take the look of your home’s exterior, consider including these low-maintenance plants that will transform your landscape.