Building containers with summer exotics

May 11, 2026

Patricia Hanbidge, Lead Horticulturist, Orchid Horticulture

Key points from this story:

• Container plants add exotic beauty
• Summer flowering bulbs are essential
• Acidanthera have a tropical scent
• Dahlias come in various colors
• Canna lilies are superb summer bloomers
• Incorporate palms for unique elements

There is nothing better than planting a container full of exotic beauty to enjoy in your landscape all summer long. Summer flowering bulbs and tender annuals will help you to do this as they bring a little bit of beauty that is a bit exotic. Most of these selections originate in sub-tropical or tropical regions so are used to warmth and humidity and of course will need to be lifted prior to the fall temperatures dropping substantially.

It is these bulbs that are often the "wow" points of our gardens. Who can ignore the tantalizing tropical scent of acidanthera, the wondrous colour of the begonias in the shady parts, or the majestic stature of the cannas or gladiolus? If you are not yet growing some of these less hardy bulbs, then maybe this is the year to begin.

Acidanthera are exotic members of the iris family. They have a delicious scent that will waft over your outdoor areas if planted close. They are white (perfect for night gardens), grow about 24 inches high with a white star-shaped bloom with a centre of deep purple. Theyare naturally found in semi-alpine conditions in Ethiopia so do not need a really rich soil. Plant them about 3 inches deep with about 5 inches between bulbs.

Begonias are gorgeous in the shady areas of the garden. They come in a range of colours from reds to pinks, yellows and whites and even a number of purples and apricots. The pendulous types are great in hanging baskets while the uprights are good in beds or containers. Plant in partial to full shade and be sure you do not plant them too deeply as they are a shallow-rooted plant.

Caladiums are a showy plant that will give any landscape a tropical flair. They are actually grown for their large colour leaves. They come in multi-colours with swirls and splashes of red, green, white and pink. Plant them in the shade and even bring them in as a house plant as summer wanes.

Canna lilies are beautiful everywhere. Their bloom colours range from white to orange, yellow, pink red and even bi-colour. They are native to the West Indies and South America so are considered not hardy. They are superb summer bloomers with not only a great bloom but often have coloured and textured leaves. Do not plant these plants in windy areas as the foliage will be damaged. Some species can grow up to 10 feet in height but can also be as small as 2 feet. Plant in full sun and remove spent flowers to encourage more bloom.

Oriental lilies are one of my favourite plants to incorporate into my outdoor space. The blooms will not last long, but placing them as part of the show is well worth the effort and the scents are too amazing for words.

Dahlias are easily one of the top selling summer flowering bulbs. There are literally hundreds of selections to choose from with all the colours of the rainbow. Many gardeners will pot up their dahlias a good six weeks prior to going outside to ensure the longest, loveliest period of bloom. They are long blooming so can be planted in borders, beds or containers and even make a great cut-flower. Just a word of caution - once you begin to grow dahlias you might get addicted to trying them all!

Incorporating some other "exotics" like palms, crotons and other tropical plants not often seen outside is also a way to build unique elements into your outdoor space. Be creative and daring and mix some tropical plants in with some summer exotics and other regular basket stuffers to truly create a space you can call your own.

Watch next week for all you need to know about planting containers!