Small Garden Design with Exotic Vibe

Quasi-exotic but cold-hardy, having this courtyard garden in your front yard is like being on vacation without leaving home.

This simple scheme is comprised of three anchoring plants: Trachycarpus fortunei (windmill palm), Cupressus sempervirens 'Totem' (Italian cypress) was selected for its slim profile and strong vertical form, covering the ground is Carex oshiomensis 'Everillo' an evergreen grass selected for its easy care, ever-yellow presence.

In summer, a restricted palette of blooming plants provide additional color. A thread of Kniphofia 'Papaya Popsicle' weaves through the scene. And self-seeding Nicotiana langsdorfii and Verbena bonariensis are allowed to mingle, but are heavily edited to keep their population in-control and on-balance with the overall scene.

The addition of summer blooms is welcome, though as you can see, the structure of the scene as captured this November day holds up in the off-season.


Growing Conditions

Zone: 7, 8, 9
Exposure: Afternoon Sun, Full Sun
Water Needs: Average, Regular / Even

Design Considerations

Style: City and Courtyard, Mediterranean, Northwest Eclectic, Tropical
Features: Varied Foliage, Texture, and Form, Fabulous Foliage, Four Season Appeal, Winter Interest
Focus: Year-round Interest, Curb Appeal, Small Space, Efficient Use of Space
Seasons of Interest: Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter, Year-round Interest

Care and Maintenance


Maintenance Level: medium



Plants In this Combo