What are ornamental plants
Ornamental plants play a crucial role in making gardens visually appealing. Many gardeners often wonder what exactly these plants are and how they are different from regular plants. Understanding the distinction is important for anyone looking to create a beautiful outdoor space.
Simply put, ornamental plants are cultivated primarily for their aesthetic value. While they may serve practical purposes—such as providing privacy when used as hedges or creating inviting shaded areas in a gazebo—their main function is to enhance the beauty of a garden. The joy of witnessing these plants flourish contributes to the overall enjoyment of our outdoor environments.
In the realm of garden design, ornamental plants are essential. By incorporating decorative trees and shrubs, gardeners can introduce a variety of colorful flowers, foliage in different shades, and fragrant pine needles. This diversity can create an engaging visual experience.
Take the columnar thuja Smaragd, for instance. This variety is particularly popular among gardeners and is widely available in nurseries. Smaragd is a low-maintenance form of western thuja. Its strong, bright green needles and attractive pyramidal shape make it an excellent choice for various garden styles.
It adapts well to different soil types and thrives in a range of conditions, from cold winters to drought. It can reach up to three meters in height, with vertical branches that grow consistently. In a year, it can add around ten centimeters to its height and can live for up to 200 years. It looks great when planted alone or as part of a group.
Another favorite among gardeners is Thuja Danica, known for its rounded shape. This variety is charming in both solitary and grouped plantings. It grows slowly, adding about 15 centimeters to its height each year. By the age of six, Thuja Danica can reach around 0.8 meters tall and has a crown diameter of up to one meter, creating a dense, spherical appearance.
Its dark green, shiny needles add consistent color throughout the year. This conifer is easy to grow, as it prefers light, fertile soils and thrives in sunny spots. It also shows good resistance to cold and dry conditions.
In conclusion, ornamental plants not only add beauty to a garden but can also serve practical purposes. Understanding their characteristics allows gardeners to make informed choices that contribute to an attractive and enjoyable outdoor space.