The third article in our series of popular plants for landscaping covers boarder plants
Border plants are those plants on the edge of the garden. Designed to create a border of where the path ends and the garden begins. Many border plants soften the edges and create a seamless join between the garden and its surrounds. Generally, border plants do not grow too tall as they are the initial layer to the garden with larger shrubs or trees behind them. The border plants mentioned below offer a range of different looks, yet each can be planted within garden beds, paths or in curved areas to create a beautiful border.
Buxus microphylla japonica Japanese Box
Also featured as a popular hedging plant, the Buxus is a smaller growing plant, that can be pruned into many shapes and sizes. As a result, it is ideal at creating boarders between gardens and along paths. It will grow to around 1metre in height, but can be pruned at a shorter height. This dense plant provides the opportunity to shape it according to your garden; ideal for curvy or sloped areas. Buxus plants prefer sun, however will also do well in semi shade areas
Liriope
With arching long strands, the liriope will line your garden bed to create a soft beautiful border. It can also be used as a ground cover plant to create a soft natural feel. Their deep green foliage gets beautiful flowers from summer onwards in either pink, purple or white colours. It grows in both sunny and shady areas. Liriope plants are tough, strong plants which require little care once established, making them so popular among gardeners and landscapers alike.
Mondo Grass
A small low growing grass that is available in numerous colours and varieties. Similar to other grasses, the Mondo grass will offer small flowers. Dwarf varieties can grow up to 10cm in height, while full sized Mondo grass will get to around 65cm. The soft feel of the Mondo grass, makes it an appealing addition to any garden.
Tulbaghia Violacea - society garlic
This small plant has blue green foliage with a stem upon which sits a cluster of delicate lilac flowers. Ideal as a boarder plant, they are tough, resilient and low maintenance. They have a long flowering period starting in Spring. Commonly known as society garlic, it does emit a garlic like smell. It will grow to around 60m high and 30cm wide.
We chose the above popular border plants based on what we know landscapers prefer as well as choosing plants that are low maintenance; which makes them popular with many gardeners. Flora Nursery works with numerous landscapers, garden maintenance as well as suppling plants to many retail nurseries. Ask your supplier for quality plants from Flora Nursery for your garden.
Take a look at our other articles around popular ground cover plants and hedging plants.