Plants that stand out in the garden

Focal point plants stand out in the garden due to several different factors. They may have an interesting, architectural shape like the atlas cedar (pictured above right) or it could be the color or unique texture of the leaves or the sheer size that commands your attention. Regardless of what makes them so eye catching, they are vital to creating a garden that is unique and interesting.

The best way to utilize these beauties is to place single specimens around your garden, not too close together. This is different from when you are creating a mixed evergreen border where a single of several different plants can work together to create a cohesive, elegant tapestry. The intention here is to immediately draw the eye to that one specimen and then visually begin taking in all the other elements around it. They are the star, and because of this you need to select a plants that you love when you are designing for a focal point.

Some great choices include many types of conifers for when you want a plant of substantial size or unique texture. Deciduous trees are also a fantastic option with the availability of flowering varieties like Magnolia or Cherry and ones with colorful leaves like my much loved Japanese Maples. You can also try working in one small focal point plant along a walking path as it curves, drawing you to that space that wants you to then continue on.

However you choose to use stand out plants in your garden design, find ones that you love. They will be the plants that you find your eye going to over and over again throughout the years.