In today’s competitive market, businesses are under more pressure than ever to stand out. Your company’s exterior instantly sets the tone for a customer’s entire experience – so how can you optimize it? One of the most effective and aesthetically pleasing ways to enhance curb appeal is through well-designed exterior plant displays. Not only do they beautify a space, but they can also convey a sense of professionalism, care, and eco-consciousness. Here are the best types of exterior plant displays for businesses that aim to attract attention and create a welcoming atmosphere. 

 

1. Planter Boxes and Raised Beds

Best for: Pavement-facing businesses, cafes, offices, and boutiques 

Planter boxes and raised beds are a classic choice for exterior plant displays. They are versatile, easy to maintain, and can be customized to fit a brand’s aesthetic. These containers can house seasonal flowers, evergreen shrubs, or even ornamental grasses, providing year-round appeal. 

Benefits: 

• Flexible design options (wood, metal, stone) 
• Easy to swap out plants seasonally 
• Defines entryways or seating areas 

 

2. Hanging Baskets

Best for: Restaurants, retail shops, and shopfronts with limited ground space 

Hanging baskets bring greenery up to eye level and can add color and charm to building facades. They’re ideal for businesses with limited sidewalk space but still want to make a strong visual impact. 

Benefits: 

• Utilizes vertical space 
• Eye-catching and vibrant 
• Great for trailing plants like petunias or ivy 

 

3. Living Walls and Vertical Gardens

Best for: Modern offices, hotels, and eco-conscious brands 

Living walls or green walls are impressive displays that can cover unsightly walls or act as architectural features. While they require more planning and maintenance, the payoff is a lush, high-impact installation that communicates sustainability and innovation. 

Benefits: 

• Makes a strong eco-friendly statement 
• Excellent for noise reduction and insulation 
• Maximizes limited square footage 

 

4. Potted Trees and Shrubs

Best for: Corporate buildings, banks, and upscale retail locations 

Larger potted plants such as small trees or shaped shrubs provide structure and elegance. They can frame entrances, line walkways, or accent seating areas. Popular choices include boxwood, olive trees, and ornamental maples. 

Benefits: 

• Adds height and sophistication 
• Provides shade and a sense of permanence 
• Low maintenance with proper potting 

 

5. Window Boxes

Best for: Cafés, bakeries, salons, and small boutiques 

Window boxes are a charming way to bring color to eye level and soften the look of window frames. They are especially appealing in pedestrian-heavy areas where passersby can appreciate the detail. 

Benefits: 

• Enhances exteriors without taking up ground space 
• Ideal for herbs, flowers, or trailing plants 
• Easy to maintain and swap seasonally 

 

6. Sculptural Plant Installations

Best for: High-end retail, galleries, or businesses wanting a standout look 

Combining art and horticulture, sculptural plant displays use shaped topiaries, bold containers, and creative plant arrangements. These are often used as statement pieces near entrances or focal points. 

Benefits: 

• Memorable and brand-aligned 
• Great photo opportunities (perfect for free social media marketing) 
• Communicates creativity and attention to detail 

 

Exterior plant displays are more than decorative touches—they are strategic tools for branding, customer engagement, and environmental stewardship. By selecting the right type of display, businesses can create a unique identity, enhance customer experience, and make a strong, positive first impression. 

When choosing plants and display styles, consider local climate, maintenance capacity, and brand personality. Partnering with a landscape designer or commercial horticulturist can also help ensure long-term success.