Succulents and succulent combos always thrive well in pots and usually look good year round and the choices are endless. There's so many colors and textures to choose from and they're very low maintenance.

For a vine, the *Patio* series of Clematis would work pretty well, but might need additonal watering. I have a light blue one called "Czanne" on my patio and it has done extremely well. The Mandevillas are also very pretty, but a little frost sensitive.

Ivy geranium is my favorite, but it's common, so some people don't like it.

I also like succulents, but the frost and the hot summer sun can get them. Here are a few photos of some succulents in pots:

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Sounds like you have the perfect conditions to grow almost anything in your pots!

However, your "large" pot really isn't that large. Citrus, for example, would need twice that room. How about a tree rose?

Shrub roses, 'Endless Summer' hydrangeas, pelargoniums (with some protection), lilies, hibiscus, variegated vinca minor, dwarf cannas, solanum jasminoides vine....the list could be endless.

Succulents are just so much easier than anything else for pots. When it is hot, daily watering is usually required for non-succulents.

For a small tree like plant in your rather small large pot, what about a Cordyline such as 'Red Sensation' or 'Torbay Dazzler'. They have colorful foliage and look great in pots.

I have an Eastern patio exposure somewhat like yours and the succulants in a large pot just thrive in Cactus Supersoil and I've propped the pots up on bricks that really don't show but allow for drainage. Because of the cooler protected area here in San Diego sometimes shaded by other large plants the colors and hugeness of the succulants is amazing like at the Fair. They don't need much in the way of water just not to drown the little guys and they bloom different flowers and have many suckers. This way you don't have to repot for years or worry about the weather. My patio isn't covered.

>>When it is hot, daily watering is usually required for non-succulents. >>

Interesting - I live in a more moderate climate (Sunset 17) so I only water my potted plants once a week, at most.

I like old fashioned Zonal Geraniums for pots. They don't require very much water and they tolerate being ignored in the cooler parts of the year.

Hosenemisis,
Love your pots and plants.I have that first one and it's always been one of my favorites.I love succulents and sedums,and all the epis.
Kathi