| Whilst I have many different gardens in my books with Earthly Comforts, one of the distinctive styles I work in within the Town of Sandwich is the courtyard garden, and I have quite a few of various shapes and sizes. A courtyard garden often has unique conditions such as partial shade, enclosed walls, and limited space. The best plants and flowers will depend on sunlight, climate, and whether you want a lush, tropical feel or a structured, formal look. Here are some excellent choices: |
| Structural & Focal Plants Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum) Adds elegance and beautiful foliage colour. Bamboo (Clumping varieties) Creates privacy and a Zen-like atmosphere. Bay Tree (Laurus nobilis) Ideal for topiary and framing entrances. Small Olive Tree (Olea europaea) Perfect for Mediterranean-style courtyards. Ferns (e.g., Asplenium, Dryopteris) Thrive in shady spots and add texture. |
| Flowering Plants for Colour Hydrangeas (Hydrangea macrophylla) Great for shaded or partially sunny courtyards. Camellia (Camellia japonica) Evergreen with stunning winter and spring blooms. Roses (David Austin varieties for fragrance) Perfect for a romantic feel. Clematis Climbers that provide beautiful flowers on walls or trellises. Jasmine (Trachelospermum jasminoides) Fragrant, evergreen climber. |
| Shade-Loving Plants Hostas Attractive foliage thrives in shade. Heuchera (Coral Bells) Colorful foliage in reds, purples, and greens. Foxgloves (Digitalis) Tall and elegant, suitable for partial shade. Lily of the Valley (Convallaria majalis) Delicate white flowers, loves shady spots. Hellebores (Christmas Rose) Winter flowers add beauty in colder months. |
| Mediterranean & Drought-Tolerant Plants Lavender (Lavandula) Fragrant, low maintenance, and loves the sun. Agapanthus Beautiful blue or white summer flowers. Sedum (Stonecrop) Succulent, drought-tolerant ground cover. Salvia Long-lasting flowers that attract pollinators. Euphorbia (Spurge) Adds architectural interest with unique foliage. |
| Climbers for Walls & Trellises Wisteria Stunning purple or white flowers in spring. Passionflower (Passiflora caerulea) Exotic-looking blooms. Virginia Creeper (Parthenocissus quinquefolia) Turns red in autumn. Climbing Roses Add a touch of classic beauty. Grapevine (Vitis vinifera) Provides fruit and shade. |
| Potted plants are a practical and beautiful solution for those with limited space. They not only add greenery but also bring a sense of tranquillity to your small Courtyard. Olive Tree in a pot Mediterranean charm. Citrus Trees (Lemon, Lime, or Orange) Fragrant and productive. Fatsia japonica Architectural foliage, perfect for shade. Pelargoniums (Geraniums) Hardy and flower for months. Herbs (Rosemary, Thyme, Basil, Mint, Chives) A practical and beautiful addition. |
The Gardener's Curious Journal 
I do like a nice Japanese maple…
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Ooh me too Grace, they struggle a bit over here at present because of the winds though.
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