When we think of garden design, the first thing many people think of is vibrant colour. While colour is undeniably important, it's texture that truly brings a garden to life, adding depth, interest, and a sense of natural harmony. Texture is the unsung hero, the quiet detail that elevates a space from pleasant to captivating. And, perhaps surprisingly, it's often green that plays the starring role.
For garden designers, understanding how to best use texture is key to creating a space you’ll truly love. Here are five things to know about creating texture in your garden:
1. Embrace the Power of Leaf Shape and Size:
I am in awe of the sheer variety of leaf shapes and sizes. Think about the bold, architectural leaves of Gunnera manicata; truly dramatic statement pieces. Contrast this with the delicate, feathery fronds of a Dryopteris filix-mas ‘Crispa Cristata’, or the rounded, silvery leaves of Brunnera 'Silver Heart'.
By combining plants with contrasting leaves, you create a visual tapestry that’s far more engaging than a collection of plants with similar foliage. For example, pair the large, heart-shaped leaves of a Hostas with the fine, needle-like foliage of a Juniperus communis. This juxtaposition creates a sense of depth and intrigue.
2. Leverage the Beauty of Leaf Surface:
Texture isn't just about shape; it's also about the surface of the leaf. Some leaves are glossy and reflective, like those of Ilex acquifolium (literally ‘like water’), adding a touch of brightness even in shady areas. Others are matte and velvety, like the soft, downy leaves of Stachys byzantina, inviting touch.
Consider the crinkled, puckered leaves of Heuchera. This versatile plant offers a staggering range of leaf colours, from deep purples and reds to vibrant limes and oranges, but it's the texture of their leaves that truly sets them apart. The subtle variations in surface texture create a play of light and shadow, adding depth and visual interest.
3. Don't Neglect Shady Areas:
Shade is often seen as a challenge, but I see it as a fantastic opportunity to really show off some gorgeous textures. Ferns, in particular, thrive in shady conditions. Polystichum 'Tsussimense' with its intricate, fluffy fronds, can create interest within a serene and tranquil atmosphere.
Combine ferns with other shade-loving plants like Tiarella cordifolia, which adds a different kind of texture with its heart-shaped leaves and delicate, frothy flowers. The interplay of different leaf textures in a shady area can create a sense of mystery and depth, transforming a potentially dull space into a captivating retreat.
4. Consider the Other types of texture:
Texture isn't limited to leaves. The silvery, peeling bark of Betula utilis var. jacquemontii provides a striking contrast to the smooth, vibrant reds of the Arbutus unedo.
In winter, when many plants are dormant, the texture of stems and bark becomes even more prominent. The vibrant red stems of Cornus sanguinea offer a burst of colour against a backdrop of bare branches and frost-covered ground, and the frosted leaves of Ajuga stand out when there isn’t much else to see.
Texture isn’t restricted to plants – look for other textures within the garden, like the rough bark of logs, or old stone walls – allowing ivy, ferns, or mosses to grow against these features can create a really stunning focal point.
5. Layer and Repeat for Maximum Impact:
To truly harness the power of texture, layer plants with different textures throughout your garden. Create a tapestry of foliage by combining plants with contrasting leaf shapes, sizes, and surfaces. Repeat successful combinations to create a sense of rhythm and harmony.
Consider the vertical texture of grasses like Miscanthus sinensis 'Kleine Silberspinne', which adds movement and a sense of airiness to the garden. Combine these with the rounded forms of Pennisetum for a classic and elegant contrast.
By understanding and embracing the power of texture, you can create a garden that is visually appealing all year round. As you explore the world of green, you'll discover a wealth of textural possibilities that will transform your garden into a haven of natural beauty.