Compact, Low Maintenance, and Subtle Plant Combo

This simple and sophisticated planting combination is very low-maintenance and easy to replicate. Because the foundational plants are dwarf selections and/or slow growing it's suitable for small gardens. With its bold foliage, summer blooms, and fall color this compact selection of the oakleaf hydrangea, H. quercifolia 'Sike's Dwarf', provides a pleasing display over many months within the frame of year-round structure provided by Cryptomeria japonica 'Black Dragon, an evergreen dwarf conifer, and the finely textured, ground-covering grass, Carex 'Kaga Nishiki'.

Growing Conditions

Zone: 6, 7, 8, 9
Exposure: Full Sun, Morning Sun, Part Shade, Part Sun
Water Needs: Average

Design Considerations

Style: Formal, Northwest Eclectic, Woodland
Features: Varied Foliage, Texture, and Form, Fabulous Foliage, Fall Color
Focus: Curb Appeal, Mixed Border, Pleasing Seasonal Flow
Seasons of Interest: Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter, Pleasing Seasonal Changes, Year-round Interest

Care and Maintenance


Maintenance Level: low

Plants In this Combo