Window box planters aren’t limited to flowers. From colorful foliage to herbs and compact vegetables, many plants thrive in a well-designed window box. The key is choosing varieties that match your sunlight, climate, and planting style.
Quick Guide: What Grows Best in Window Boxes
| Plant Type |
Best For |
Light Needs |
| Foliage plants |
Year-round texture |
Sun or shade |
| Flowers |
Seasonal color |
Sun |
| Herbs |
Kitchen use |
Full sun |
| Edibles |
Small harvests |
Full sun |
Design tip: Combine foliage, flowers, and herbs in one planter for color, texture, and fragrance all season long.
If you’re starting with the planter itself, explore our collection of
copper and stainless steel window box planters.
Best Foliage & Ornamental Plants
Coleus
Bright, colorful foliage makes coleus a standout in window boxes. Many varieties tolerate both sun and shade, making them extremely versatile.
Ivy
Ivy provides trailing movement and classic greenery. It’s hardy, tolerant of cooler conditions, and pairs well with flowering plants.
Ipomoea (Sweet Potato Vine)
Known for trailing foliage in lime green or deep purple tones, ipomoea adds movement and contrast to window box arrangements.
Dusty Miller
Silver-gray foliage adds contrast and works beautifully with both modern and traditional homes.
Ornamental Grasses
Low-maintenance and architectural, ornamental grasses provide height and texture while tolerating varied conditions.
Herbs & Edible Plants for Window Boxes
Basil
Thrives in full sun and warm weather. Regular harvesting keeps plants productive and encourages fresh growth.
Tomatoes (Compact Varieties)
Small cherry or patio tomatoes grow well in deeper window boxes with strong sunlight and consistent watering.
Peppers
Compact chili and ornamental peppers provide color and edible harvests throughout the season.
Mint
Fragrant and fast growing. Mint is best grown in containers like window boxes to keep it contained.
Chives
Cold-tolerant and perennial in many zones, chives provide both flavor and soft seasonal blooms.
Planting tip: Use deeper window boxes for edibles and herbs so roots have enough space to grow.
Why Planter Quality Matters
Healthy plants start with a well-built planter. Durable materials help regulate moisture and support long-term planting success.
| Material |
Why it Works |
| Copper |
Timeless look that develops natural patina |
| Stainless Steel |
Modern, durable, corrosion resistant |
Browse the full collection:
H Potter window box planters
