Plants for a Japanese Garden

Master gardener Chris Dawson is creating a tranquil Japanese garden in Zone 9. Non-plant elements have already been placed in the garden, and a variety of plants are waiting to be transplanted into the landscape.

The red berries and colorful foliage of nandina are favorite elements in the Japanese garden.

Behind the azalea, yew pines soften the transition from the bamboo fence into the rest of the garden.

Dichondria is a dense, mat-forming groundcover that comes in rolls, much like sod.

• Burgundy Japanese maple: The attractive form of the branches, colorful leaves and green bark that's highlighted after the leaves drop add year-round beauty.
  
• Japanese black pine: The focal point of this garden, it is positioned to reach out over the pond for a natural effect. It is pruned to look like a bonsai and thinned a couple of times a year to maintain its form.

• Nandina: Also known as heavenly bamboo, this traditional plant is commonly found in Japanese landscapes.
  
• Lily turf: Dawson chooses a large variety that grows to two feet tall and has an arching habit. It is hardy to Zone 4 and benefits from shade in areas that get hot. It likes evenly wet soil.
  
• Azalea: Another traditional feature, it offers evergreen foliage and a splash of color to announce the arrival of spring. It has a shallow root system and doesn't require a deep hole for planting.

• Yew pine (Podocarpus macrophyllus): The spindly, wispy appearance of this tree makes it an excellent choice to be planted in groupings tp create a screen.
  
• Scotch moss and mondo grass: These are used as groundcovers in the planting areas.
  
• Dichondria: It is easy to plant between the flagstones. Just lay it out and cut it with a utility knife to match the shape of its location. In more humid or cooler areas, use moss.
  

The elements of a Japanese garden have all translated well in this yard and have created a peaceful place for the homeowners.