Contrasting Foliage Color

© 2005 Darcy Daniels

Berberis t. 'Gold Ring', Spiraea 'Goldflame', with the fleeting floral presence of Peony 'Jules Elle'.

Low growing tapestry

© 2005 Darcy Daniels

This tapestry of foliage is enlivened by the brightly colored flowers of Helianthemum 'Henfield Brilliant' whose yellow eye harmonizes swimmingly with the yellow variegated foliage of Abelia g. 'Sunrise'

Zowee!

© 2005 Darcy Daniels

Love it or hate it ... it definitely has "Wow" power!

Players include an orange lily, Lonicera 'Baggeson's Gold', and Geranium 'Anne Folkard'.

Harmony AND Contrast!

© 2005 Darcy Daniels

The gold rims of the Berberis t. 'Gold Ring' foliage is set off beautifully against the vibrant yellow/gold foliage of Spiraea 'Goldflame'

Contrasting Foliage & Texture

© 2005 Darcy Daniels

Cordyline australis (Burgundy strap-shaped leaves) contrasting with the feathery foliage of Mexican feather grass (Stipa tenuissima).

While this is a good example of contrasting foliage, the scene is further strengthened by the harmonizing burgundy & pink scheme.

Color Harmony

© 2005 Darcy Daniels

Color Harmony - Spring flowering Clematis hybrids paired with Australian mint bush (Prostanthera rotundifolia)

Allium 'Globemaster'

© 2005 Darcy Daniels

Among the most asked about plants in my garden in May are the Alliums. I have several different varieties that I grow. Pictured is Allium 'Globemaster' just as it is emerging from bud; it will ultimately expand to a dramatic sphere 8-10" across.

I am growing other May-blooming Alliums as well; perhaps slightly less dramatic, but also very desirable: A. christophii, A. schubertii, A. 'Purple Sensation', and A. 'Mt. Everest' (a white blooming selection).

In addition to the showy blooms, the seedheads provide interest after the flowers fade.