Finding blue in nature can be a challenge, but teal is becoming increasingly popular among gardeners. The Garden Media Group has declared teal the color of the year for 2025, encouraging a trend toward blue-green plants.
Just like blue houseplants create a sense of peace and abundance, blue flowers are also regarded for their calming qualities. The Garden Media Group's 2025 Garden Trends Report states that teal blends fantasy with reality, reminiscent of serene Caribbean waters and endless skies.
While few plants naturally display teal, the trends report highlights a variety of options from grasses to flowering plants. Below, we present our favorite teal plants to enhance your garden in 2025.
8 Stunning Teal Plants
Teal is known for its soothing qualities, making it perfect for memory gardens and enhancing mental well-being. The trends report reminisces about the 'Frutiger Aero' aesthetic, characterized by teal and green shades that once dominated design from 2000 to 2013.
This style embraced vibrant colors, breaking away from the minimalism that has prevailed in recent years, injecting joy back into design.
Ready to infuse this cheerful vibe into your outdoor space? Consider our top teal plant selections below.
1. Grape Hyacinth 'Valerie Finnis'
If you're aiming for a fragrant garden with a teal touch, the 'Valerie Finnis' is a top contender. This grape hyacinth variety opens with pale blue-green blooms, ideal for growing in containers.
"Mass plant these bulbs in pots for a stunning effect," suggests Thomas Rutter, a former professional gardener. Typically, they bloom in spring, around May, and reach a height of only six to seven inches, making them perfect for front borders.
Originating from southeastern Europe, grape hyacinths thrive in US hardiness zones three to zone nine. They are also resistant to deer.
Purchase 'Valerie Finnis' bulbs from Walmart.
2. Festuca 'Beyond Blue'
Incorporating ornamental grasses like festuca 'Beyond Blue' adds texture and color to your landscape. This semi-evergreen grass features a striking powder-blue hue.
Recommended in the GMG Garden Trends Report 2025, it forms mounds perfect for borders or earthy-tone containers. According to the report, this grass complements modern palettes, fitting well with blue, green, brown, orange, and gold.
Adaptable across US hardiness zones five to ten, it's a great choice for drought-resistant gardens, thriving in sunny spots with minimal watering.
3. Echeveria 'Blue Star'
A favorite among houseplant enthusiasts, echeveria offers stunning rosettes in a cooler blue shade. The 'Blue Star' variety is especially appealing.
This fast-growing succulent can reach six to eight inches in just a year, thriving across US hardiness zones nine to twelve.
Caring for succulents is simple, provided they receive ample light.
'Echeveria thrives in bright light,' advises Lisa Eldred Steinkopf. Avoid harsh homemade sprays that could damage their protective cutin layer.
Another option for teal plants is the Caribbean Blue Echeveria from Walmart.
4. Brunnera 'Jack Frost'
Another teal highlight is brunnera 'Jack Frost', which can be grown indoors or outdoors. This lovely plant features heart-shaped leaves and thrives in shaded areas.
Native to eastern Europe, it flourishes in US hardiness zones three to eight. Under proper light, it produces lovely blue blooms and can be easily propagated through division.
Check out brunnera 'Jack Frost' from Amazon.
5. Euphorbia 'Glacier Blue'
Euphorbias offer a variety of uses in the garden, and 'Glacier Blue' stands out with its lush foliage. This Mediterranean variety is an evergreen perennial, hardy in US zones seven to ten.
It thrives in sunny spots with well-draining soil and can handle some shade too. According to Drew Swainston, this plant produces pale white flowers in spring and summer, adding to its appeal.
Be cautious as euphorbias contain a milky sap that can irritate skin; wear gloves when handling. You can find gardening gloves with long sleeves from Amazon for protection.
6. Hosta 'Touch of Class'
Hostas are favored for their stunning foliage, and the 'Touch of Class' variety boasts striking variegated teal and yellow leaves. Perfect for borders or containers, hostas thrive in shaded areas with moisture.
Lisa advises ensuring they receive some sunlight for optimal variegation. Originating from Asia, this variety flourishes in US zones three to five. You can even divide hostas to expand your collection.
Find the 'Touch of Class' hosta at Nature Hills.
7. Blue Star Fern
For fern lovers, the blue star fern is an intriguing option with its uniquely shaped blue-green fronds. This fern can thrive both indoors and outdoors.
Rachel notes its dramatic appearance, making it suitable for floral arrangements as cut foliage. Native to tropical areas of the Americas, it prefers humid conditions.
Outdoors, it grows well in zones eight to thirteen, thriving in bright spots away from direct sunlight.
Check out blue star fern at Walmart for your collection.
8. Eucalyptus
Eucalyptus is a fast-growing tree known for its elegant silver-green foliage. It's not only effective for keeping pests away but also adds beauty to your yard.
These fragrant trees come in various types, showcasing colorful bark and teal leaves. Rachel advises regular pruning to maintain shape and size. “I love eucalyptus for its scent and stylish branches,” she says.
Native to Australia, eucalyptus thrives in full sun and is suitable for US hardiness zones eight to eleven.
FAQs
Why is my teal plant losing its color?
Several factors can lead to color loss in plants, including light exposure, dehydration, and nutrient deficiencies. Each plant has specific needs, so it's essential to research care requirements to prevent fading.
Other teal plants mentioned in the GMG 2025 Garden Trends Report include Allium ceasium 'Zamin' and blue chalk stick succulents. The report also suggests pairing teal plants with patina pots and copper accents for a cohesive look.