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Basic Black in the Garden

© Keith Muraoka

Consider the wisdom of black. My mother always told me that black goes with everything -- at least in the world of fashion. But it's also true with your garden. Black flowers go with anything, bringing quiet sophistication or show-stopping drama to your garden.

Of course, you may be asking yourself, "Fine, but how many black flowers are there?" Ah, but you may be surprised. There are black pansies, violas, irises, tulips and hollyhock, to name a few.

Goldsmith Seeds, a flower breeder in Gilroy, California, has just introduced a black pansy called "Accord Black Beauty." You should be able to find it at any retail garden center right now. It is a true black color, not dark purple, with tiny yellow centers.

Consider growing "Accord Black Beauty" pansies with yellow violas or dwarf yellow snapdragons. Or grow the ankle-high plants in bright sunlight against an apple-green backdrop.

The light-colored background color will enhance the black flowers, lifting it even more into the spotlight. Variegated or white-veined foliage plants will also add sparkle.

Joan Bolton, in Women's Day Gardening & Outdoor Living magazine, recommends:

More daring combinations of brightly colored flowers will heighten the contrast. Use one or two solid colors in intense hues, such as red tulips or yellow coreopsis. Orange and chartreuse flowers may work as well. If your black flowers bear colored centers, plant neighbors that match. Avoid pastels, which are likely to appear washed out.

I should also add black and white gardens, too. If you've ever been to a black and white wedding, you already know how dramatic this color combination can be. Black and white pansies or black and white violas are easily attainable this time of year. Black pansies and black violas will also combine with white snapdragons or, during the summer, white petunias or white impatiens.

Be aware that if you do plant black flowers, be prepared that they're going to draw attention. Visitors to my garden always notice the black pansies first thing.

If you're tempted about planting black flowers, but still aren't sure, consider potting up a few in containers of varying heights. You can place these containers wherever you want. Go ahead and try mixing and matching flowers and colors.

Besides "Accord Black Beauty" pansy from Goldsmith Seeds, consider these other varieties:

Scalloped, white edges add drama to the dark, velvety blooms of "Pennie Black" nemophila. This low-growing annual can be planted beneath spring bulbs where the showy flowers will serve

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