Plants constitute the core element of landscape architecture design, with their arrangement and planning directly determining a garden's ecological functions, visual impact, spatial ambiance, and sustainability. Against the backdrop of ecological civilization development and urban refinement, plant configuration has evolved from traditional visual enhancement to an integrated approach prioritizing ecological integrity, multifunctionality, regional adaptability, and long-term low-maintenance performance. This paper systematically examines the theoretical foundations, fundamental principles, functional values, artistic techniques, spatial design, and maintenance strategies for plant configuration and planning. Through practical analyses across diverse settings—including ecological restoration, urban parks, residential areas, waterfront green spaces, and rural landscapes—it identifies current challenges such as homogenized designs, excessive emphasis on aesthetics at the expense of ecology, short-term gains over sustainable benefits, and insufficient use of native species. The study proposes scientific, localized, ecologically sound, and user-centered optimization pathways, providing theoretical support and practical guidance for enhancing landscape design quality and advancing green, low-carbon urban development.