In summer a Japanese garden is a haven of cool & calm, offering shade and dappled sunlight in a balanced and structured landscape. Add to this the soothing sound of running water (a typical feature in Japanese gardens), a splash of colour, some well-placed topiary and the effect is complete. Many customers ask us about Plants for Japanese Gardens in the UK. Here are a few summer observations from a well-known Japanese garden in London’s Holland Park.
Japanese Maple trees showing their Autumn colours
Many shades of green: This effect is beautifully illustrated as a tall cloud tree lingers elegantly among lower growing shrubs, its light green summer foliage delightfully offset against the grey stone and the water.
Cloud Trees – planting for Japanese Gardens
Many layers of height: At the front, a cluster of formal buxus globes contrast wonderfully with the rugged stone. This is framed by the contrasting green foliage (both colour and texture) of the rhododendrons on the left and mahonia to the right, all under the backdrop of mature Acer trees (Japanese Maple).
Beautiful ornamental mosses create a lovely soft ambiance.
A burst of colour: A regular feature of Japanese gardens, the hydrangea adds a burst of summer colour. Don’t forget to keep them very well watered while flowering!
Ideal Plants for Japanese Gardens, Hydrangeas add vibrant summer colour
Acers glorious acers: From the tall to the small, no Japanese garden is complete without Acers, which can add depth, structure and colour. Here a full grown mature Acer tree overlooks the impressive water feature…
A mature Acer tree overlooks the waterfall. Acers are well know plants for Japanese Gardens
..and a spreading Japanese Acer looking very pretty with its deep red foliage as it grows out of a bed of soft moss balls inset with stepping stones.
Acers Japanese Maple
More on Japanese Gardens? Read Designing a Japanese Garden and also Ramon’s story of Creating a Japanese Garden.
