Structural Plants with Bold Shapes
Architectural Plants are defined as plants with strong lines and shape that add impact through these bold shapes, either to a landscape planting, or as a specimen tree.
They include plants that have strong textural qualities, and can also include plants that have strong visual impact at certain times of the year. They can be trees that form of the backbone of the garden, or they can be individual plants that add a touch is excitement.
Trees planted as groups work as architectural plants when planted to create strong line of vision. So a line of trees that leads the eye through the garden fits the bill. A single tree with an outstanding trunk, or bold textural foliage can also be classed the same way.
So we are looking for plants with :
- Strong shape.
- Bold form.
- Plantings that create visual lines.
- Plants with a WOW factor, or statement plants.
You do not need to have a large garden to make use of plants that add a touch drama and design. Many plants can be used in pots, containers and small gardens to add impact some such as Sansieveria or “mother in laws tongue” also do well in shaded positions.
On modern balcony and terrace gardens, plants that give a contemporary look in bold containers can make a statement. These are also often low maintenance type plants such as Strelitzia, wich has both strong lines in its flowers and foliage. Flax, Cordylines and Agave are other examples of low maintenance plants with strong architectural lines.
The term is coined to refer to plants that make a strong statement in the garden, add to the integral design of the building and can bring a distinctive presence to a garden.
Many species, including trees, shrubs and grasses have strong architectural lines, the position of planting often determining if the architectural qualities of the plant are emphasised or not.
Planting Ideas and further information
Plants with a ‘contemporary’ look are often best suited to modern architecture and can look great in containers in balcony garden. Overcrowding should be avoided so as not to detract from the architectural lines of these plants.
Suggestions.
Cordylines, Agaves, Bamboos, Dragon trees, Ferns, Grass trees, Palms, Hostas, Specimen trees and Yuccas are some plants to consider.
Architectural plants are available from the following suppliers.
Mount Martha,Victoria 3934 - Ph: 03 59742599
Supplier and installer of advanced Bamboo together with Canary Island Date Palms, Cycads, Grass Trees for residential and commercial projects.
www.plantperfection.com.au
300 Oxley Drive Coombabah QLD 4216
Located on the north end of the Gold Coast at Runaway Bay. The 6 acre site is home to Queensland's biggest & best garden centre. Selling in volume direct to the public. Focus on top quality both in our plant & pot ranges.
www.rossevansgardencentre.com.au