Planting for Exotic Effect

When it comes to planting themes, there are a variety of styles to choose from: traditional English cottage, naturalistic, wildlife, Mediterranean to name but a few. Apart from colours and textures, the first and most important thing is to work out which plants will be be suited to your garden's soil and aspect and to put the right plant in the right place. Then consider how much time you want, or need, to spend maintaining the garden. Last but not least, think about the type of plants you like and how they can be used to create an overall effect or theme. This month, we look at how plants can be used to create an exotic garden look yet still cope with the vagaries of our weather.

This style of planting is ideal if you don't have a huge amount of time to spend maintaining it and are happy with the jungle look. It's all about the foliage. Big-leafed plants are the order of the day. Choose those plants with the most striking leaf-form and texture. Plants with glossy, palmate leaves such as Fatsia japonica really delivers - and has the added benefit of being suited to dry shade too. Plant the Chusan palm along with tall bamboos and you're well on the way to achieving the desired effect!

On the perennials front, choose vibrant, fiery colours such as Crocosmia Lucifer, Hemerocallis, or Euphorbia griffithii Fireglow. The latter is an evergreen and these really work well all year round. The fern Polystichum polyblepharum is a particular favourite of mine, along with the three Hs: Hellebores, Hostas and Heucheras. Add in some tropical-looking Bergenias, also known as Elephant's Ears, for good measure and for late spring/early summer colour. If you like this look, please contact us to find out how we can help you achieve the exotic effect in your own garden.