If flowers are the divas of the garden, foliage is the harmonious backup group that makes the whole performance shine. Colour, texture, and form don’t just come from blooms—there’s a world of interesting leaves that not only set the stage but often steal the show. Flowers may be the stars, but foliage is the picture frame, the atmosphere, and often the soul of a beautiful garden.
Start with a Standout
When choosing plants—whether for a garden bed or a container—don’t just focus on flowers. Especially in shady spots, standout foliage can create all the visual impact you need. Look for leaves that draw your eye, like the delicate structure of a cutleaf Japanese maple or the bold colour variations of Heuchera (Coral Bells), which range from deep burgundy to vibrant chartreuse.
Your standout feature doesn’t have to be a plant—it could be a sculptural shrub, an ornamental tree, or even a favourite birdbath. Try placing that birdbath atop a lush carpet of Irish moss, or line a path with the spotted leaves of Pulmonaria, silvery Artemisia, or graceful ferns. Light up a shady corner with glossy Bergenia or classic Hostas, which offer endless variety in shape, texture, and hues from bright green to cool blue-ish tones.
Build the Framework
Once you’ve chosen your focal foliage, you can build your planting scheme around it in creative ways. Think of it like building a quilt—each plant contributes a piece to the overall picture.
- Create a patchwork of leaf shapes: Group together plants with small, intricate foliage for a richly textured look.
Mossy Saxifrage 'Cloth of Gold,' Sagina Subulata 'Irish Moss,' and Bellflower Campanula Carpatica 'Pearl Deep Blue'
- Echo colour tones: Pair burgundy Heuchera with other plants in similar shades, like dark-toned Euphorbia, for a cohesive palette.
Foamy Bells 'Catching Fire,' and 'Onyx'
- Choose a colour theme: Work with warm hues like gold, rust, and copper.
Japanese Maple 'Tamukeyama,' 'Magnolia x Soulangeana,' and Lobelia Speciosa 'Starship Scarlet'
- Mix textures, repeat colours: Choose different textures but repeat colour combinations like white and green.
Pulmonaria 'Pink-a-Blue' and Artemesia 'Silver Mound'
Top it Off
Once your foliage framework is in place, add a statement piece to elevate it all - that favourite birdbath, a piece of artwork, an ornamental tree or shrub, or an unexpectedly showy flower. The layered, leafy backdrop with make your feature stand out even more.
Visit us at Eising Garden Centre to find all the foliage stars and supporting players you need to bring your garden vision to life!
A lot of attention has been focused on buying local and shopping for Canadian-made products recently. At Sassyfras Boutique inside Eising’s Garden Centre we’ve always been proud to offer high quality Canadian fashion brands and locally made products. In a world of fast fashion, having choices that benefit our community and the environment is important to us.
There are many reasons to choose Canadian, and your choices do matter:
- Contributes towards building a thriving local fashion industry
- Keeps our economy healthy by keeping our money in the country
- Workers within Canada receive fair wages and work in safe conditions
- Garments that are designed to last, using superior materials and workmanship
Canadiana in Store
Here’s a sneak preview of a few Canadian manufacturers you’ll find in Sassyfras!
Dévia
This women’s clothing collection is made in Montreal, Québec and is eclectic and inspiring. Tops, t-shirts, blouses, cardigans, pants, and shorts are all included in their wide range of fashions.
Pure
Combining quality and comfort, Pure is a Canadian company that creates garments for women with active lifestyles who also like to look good. That’s a winning trifecta for certain!
Terrera
Ethically made with natural, earth-friendly fabrics like bamboo and organic cotton, Terrera clothing is soft, comfortable and long-lasting. Their undergarments, leggings and tops will quickly become your favourites.
La Volta Accessories
La Volta’s handbags are fashionable and designed in Canada. Their high quality bags have plenty of personality and each unique style is named after a woman.
Merx Jewelry
With a new collection each season, Merx has become known for staying ahead of trends, but they also manufacture classic and timeless designs. Using pure materials that are lead-free and nickel-free, their jewelry is also attractive to anyone with sensitive skin.
Proud To Be Local - Artisans and Products
Crystal McMaster
Local jewelry designer, Crystal McMaster has been creating beautiful pieces with love and care since 2005.
Jennie’s Jewelry
Local and sustainable, Jennie’s Jewelry transforms silverware into unique earrings, necklaces and bracelets. She also makes custom pieces as well!
Springknoll Farms
Made by a farming family in Haldimand County, their luxurious whipped tallow lotion is a must try.
Please drop by soon to see all the fashions and products made by talented fellow Canadians. Thank you for supporting our local business, and for choosing Canadian!