Three great borders

Each of these three borders will thrive in full sun (only the abutilon and hydrangea require afternoon shade). 

Border 1: cool perennials 

A new twist on the pink theme, a border that pairs pink-flowered plants with subtle splashes of gray, green, and maroon foliage is more sophisticated than sweet.

This triangular planting (12 feet long at the front) is a lively focal point of a backyard garden in San Francisco; it was designed for viewing from picture windows at the back of the house as well as from a raised deck at the rear of the garden.

Heuchera, ornamental grass, and silvery artemisia mingle with abutilon, airy clusters of pink gaura, coneflower, and hydrangea to soften and hide the base of the deck.

Bark mulch covers the soil between plants; Trex benderboard finishes the front edge.

Plant cuphea, salvia, and verbena for color among mixed basils, eggplant, and pepper. 

NextCool perennial plan