Oriental Garden Plants?

Question

I'm looking to create an oriental 'feature' in my garden around my flowering cherry tree, and i'm wondering what type of plants could I get that are oriental. I've heard of the Japanese minature cherry and the Magnolia Grandiflora, however some others would be fantastic! Thank you!

Answer 1

Well, if you want to go with the usual, you could plant Chinese lanterns and be done with it.

But, if you are like me and like to have something unique, here are a number of cool plants to use:

--Burgundy Japanese maple: The attractive form of the branches, colorful leaves and green bark that's highlighted after the leaves drop add year-round beauty.

--Japanese black pine: The focal point of this garden, it is positioned to reach out over the pond for a natural effect. It is pruned to look like a bonsai and thinned a couple of times a year to maintain its form.

--Nandina: Also known as heavenly bamboo, this traditional plant is commonly found in Japanese landscapes.

--Lily turf: Grows to two feet tall and has an arching habit. It is hardy to Zone 4 and benefits from shade in areas that get hot. It likes evenly wet soil.

--Azalea: Another traditional feature, it offers evergreen foliage and a splash of color to announce the arrival of spring. It has a shallow root system and doesn't require a deep hole for planting.



(Behind the azalea, yew pines soften the transition from the bamboo fence into the rest of the garden.)  



--Yew pine (Podocarpus macrophyllus): The spindly, wispy appearance of this tree makes it an excellent choice to be planted in groupings tp create a screen.

--Scotch moss and mondo grass: These are used as groundcovers in the planting areas.

--Dichondria: It is easy to plant between the flagstones. Just lay it out and cut it with a utility knife to match the shape of its location. In more humid or cooler areas, use moss.