By Gary Pike
Make your landscape stand out from your neighbor’s by adding a mix of unique plant materials which are not used in the average landscape.
Many of these unique plants come from the West Coast. By using these uncommon plants you will create more interest in your landscape. You may even become the envy of the neighborhood. These unique varieties of plants are available in different shapes, sizes and textures.
For taller growing interesting plants try using a Gingko tree, they have a fan shape leaf with beautiful yellow fall color. Also consider Weeping Cedars, which have a graceful habit and are evergreens. They look great by themselves or in groups of three such as when they are used for screening. Italian Cypress is great to use in very tight spaces since they stay very narrow even as they grow tall.
For medium growing plants consider using English Laurel with larger leaves and a thick growth habit; their uses are almost endless. They can be used as a foundation plant where there are high windows; on a large wall to break up the appearance or for privacy near a patio or pool area. Spiral-shaped plants can act as an accent piece. They are great in pots, at entrances to a front door, garage, patio, pool area of driveway. They are generally very hearty and do very well here. Popular favorites, Japanese Maples are available in different sizes, leaf colors, growth habits, and bark colors. They, too, can be used in so many different ways in landscapes. Thunderhead Pine is not too well known but is becoming recognized as a great accent plant. It has tight, dark green needles, is a lower growing pine and can be used in many different situations in a landscape or in planters. Some lower growing plants that are available include Sungold Cypress which has yellow foliage. Mugo Pines are great for areas where a low accent piece is needed. They are great around rocks, pools and patios as well as in rock garden.
Once you see these unique plants, you will want to find a place for them in your landscape.
Happy gardening.
