Walls and screens—defining boundaries

Our private real estate is our own domain, and if it is shaped well it can also be our sanctuary.

To achieve a feeling of intimacy and ownership over our precious outdoor spaces, nothing is more important than defining boundaries for privacy, security and seclusion.

Growing walls provide boundaries for entire gardens and also create rooms within gardens. They set the perimeter of the space, form the backdrop to all that’s within, and can play a big part in dictating the theme of your outdoor room. Plants that work as walls grow tall enough and dense enough to close off a space visually because they can’t be looked over or through.

Some of my favourite wall and screening plants are:

• Alpinia purpurata RED GINGER
• Acmena Smithii LILLY PILLY
• Banksia 'Giant Candles' GIANT CANDLES BANKSIA
• Backhousia myrtifolia GREY MYRTLE
• Photinia glabra 'Rubens' SMALL LEAFED PHOTINIA
• Phyllostachys nigra BLACK BAMBOO
• For more see my book The Source Book Second Edition