When dealing with contaminated soil in an outdoor plant box, selecting the right plants is crucial for both aesthetics and environmental health. Certain plants excel at phytoremediation—absorbing or breaking down pollutants like heavy metals, pesticides, and hydrocarbons. Here are the top choices:

1. Sunflowers (Helianthus annuus) – Known for extracting heavy metals like lead and arsenic, sunflowers are hardy and easy to grow.

2. Indian Mustard (Brassica juncea) – A fast-growing plant that absorbs cadmium, lead, and selenium, making it ideal for soil detox.

3. Willow Trees (Salix spp.) – Their deep roots help break down organic pollutants and stabilize contaminated soil.

4. Clover (Trifolium spp.) – Fixes nitrogen and improves soil structure while tolerating moderate contamination.

5. Ferns (Pteris vittata) – Specifically effective at absorbing arsenic, ferns are a natural choice for polluted areas.

For best results, combine these plants with organic compost and regular soil testing. By choosing the right species, you can transform a contaminated plant box into a thriving, eco-friendly space.