Gardeners told never plant 'silent killer' despite its beautiful blooms

Experts have advised gardeners to never plant these in their gardens

Almha Murphy Audience Writer and Emily Malia GAU Writer

07:00, 17 Apr 2026

An individual, dressed in a blue top and a green cardigan, is using a garden hose to water the plants in a well-maintained garden, surrounded by lush greenery and a wooden fence.

People are being urged not to plant this(Image: Getty Images/Mint Images RF)

While the allure of cultivating this stunning bloom is strong, horticulturalists are cautioning against it due to a worrying climate-related issue.

With UK temperatures climbing, many plants could struggle. This particularly affects species that depend on regular moisture and milder conditions, which are now withering during prolonged hot, arid periods with minimal precipitation.

Unfortunately, hydrangeas, celebrated for their striking pink, purple and blue flowers, are finding conditions especially challenging. This stems from their requirement for damp soil with frequent watering.

During hot, sunny spells, moisture evaporates rapidly from the ground’s surface. Sometimes, this occurs before plants can properly take it in.

Indicators that your hydrangea might be experiencing heat stress include leaves looking burnt and twisted, petals browning, and drooping branches signalling the plant’s distress.

A detailed view of a large, spherical white hydrangea blossom surrounded by other flowers and green foliage, creating a natural garden scene

Hydrangeas are a favourite in gardens(Image: Dmytro Ostashuk / 500px via Getty Images)

While this news may dishearten keen gardeners, abandoning hopes of a verdant garden isn’t necessary. Many plants and flowers possess beneficial characteristics enabling them to flourish in parched environments.

Various species, such as succulents, which come from desert regions and have developed to require minimal hydration, can also tolerate intense sunshine.

Typical drought-resistant features include thick, waxy coatings, which help plants retain moisture. Many species also possess fleshy stems and foliage capable of water storage.

However, your drought-proof garden needn’t be limited to cacti alone. Stunning flowering options include lantanas and blanket flowers, both hardy and colourful choices.

Sunburned blue hydrangea flowers on a bush in a garden

They can struggle in the heat(Image: Getty)

An added advantage of selecting drought-tolerant plants is that many are perennials. This means a single purchase provides years of enjoyment, unlike seasonal bedding varieties.

These plants will also draw various insects and pollinators to your garden. While these creatures often get unfairly maligned, they’re essential for maintaining your garden’s ecological balance.

Your selection needn’t stop at flowers, either. Herbs make excellent choices as they’re generally quite drought-resistant, including fennel, coriander, parsley, chives and thyme.

What’s more, these can double up for culinary use. Particularly coriander, which features prominently in numerous cuisines, including Indian, Mexican and Middle Eastern fare. Herbs such as parsley and thyme also feature in many traditional British recipes.