Classic Black Plants

Black is the classic color of wardrobes and may soon be a classic in your landscape.

Plant breeders and gardeners have long been looking for black flowers. Most black flowers on the market are really a deep purple or dark red.

The recently introduced black petunia, Black Velvet, has many gardeners and professionals looking for ways to add this and other black beauties to the garden.

The key to success is pairing black plants with the right partner or suitable backdrop that makes the black flowers or leaves pop instead of fade into the background.

Orange and black make a dramatic eye-catching combination, while silver and black are classic. And of course green is almost always a suitable partner or backdrop.

Be careful when using black plants in the shade. Their dark flowers can be lost in lower light. Pair them with a limy green groundcover or plant against a light wall for maximum enjoyment.

A bit more information: A long time favorite, Queen of the Night tulip can provide intrigue in the spring garden. Team Black Prince pansy with Bright Lights Swiss chard for a colorful container. Or create a black backdrop at ground level with Blackie sweet potato vine, black mondo grass or one of the dark leaved bugleweeds like Bronze Beauty or Black Scallop.