Italian Plants for Decoration

Trees

• From evergreens to fruit, trees play an important part of Italian landscapes, patios and interiors. The classic, stately Italian cypress evergreen tree can be grown as border plants, accent plants or, when small, in large containers. Fruit trees, particularly citrus, are frequently found in Italian decor, either full sized or dwarf. For color, flowering trees like oleander, rhododendron and azaleas add variety and interest.

Shrubs

• Like trees, shrubs are an integral part of Italian decor, as accent points or for hedges. Shrubs used as hedges in Italian decor include cypress, anise, cleyera, fatsia and juniper. The hedges can be trimmed to appear formal or left to grow naturally for a casual look. Accent shrubs of jasmine, pyracanthus and variegated aucuba can be grown throughout your landscape or in containers indoors to accentuate an Italian decor.

Plants

• Flowering plants in Italian decor are the accents and bright color needed to create the desired ambiance. Geraniums, marigolds, roses, salvia and other sun-loving, drought-hardy flowering plants are grown in Italian gardens. Climbing vines like ivy, honeysuckle, wisteria and grapes cover archways, trestles, pergolas and porticoes. Succulents, particularly agave, are also frequently grown to reflect and inspire an Italian design.

Herbs

• Italian gardens are known for including a variety of herbs, both for the plants' visual appeal and for their aromatic and flavor benefits. Rosemary, sage and lavender can be used as low hedges or scattered throughout the garden. Containers filled with parsley, chives, basil, thyme and oregano can be placed on a windowsill or table, or set at various locations for accent and decor.