With a subtropical climate that allows palms and banana plants to thrive, this New Orleans garden doesn’t undergo the dramatic changes in foliage found in other areas of the South at this time of year. “We have two seasons: summer and a milder summer,” says Kim.
One of the easiest ways to change the look of such a garden is with annuals and hardscapes. Unusually spacious for the city, the lot inspired Kim’s vision of “a place to stroll” that offered a variety of experiences along a meandering route.
A path of Pennsylvania Lilac flagstone starts at one end of the pool terrace and makes a graceful loop through the back of the grounds. Camellias, live oaks, cypress, and other traditionally Southern plants mingle with dramatic tropical palms and banana plants, which thrive in New Orleans’ subtropical environs.
As the walkway winds back toward the house, the beds brim with textural philodendron, giant elephant ears, mondo grass, mahonia, Ligularia, ferns, and the artful pieces that infuse a fanciful spirit.
