You may wonder, what exactly is a moon garden? Moon gardens are designed with plants that feature white or silver foliage and flowers. The moonlight reflects off these plants, creating a stunning array of gleaming specimens. Additionally, many moon gardens include flowers that are fragrant at night. There are several reasons to create a moon garden: it provides a beautiful space for entertaining and enjoying leisurely nighttime gardening.
Which Plants Create a Moon Garden?
Any plant with silver or white foliage or flowers can contribute to a moon garden.
Here are some excellent options:
Gardenia
Known for its strong floral fragrance, Gardenias make a wonderful addition to a moon garden. These evergreen shrubs have lovely glossy green foliage year-round. They thrive in morning sun with some protection from the afternoon heat. When planting, use an acidic soil mix, similar to what is used for azaleas and hydrangeas.
Dusty Miller
Dusty Miller is a fantastic choice if you’re looking for silver foliage year-round. This plant typically grows to about 2 feet tall and wide, forming a perfect mound. Its deeply lobed leaves contrast beautifully with its yellow daisy-like flowers, adding both color and texture. Dusty Miller also does well in containers!
Iceberg Rose
The Iceberg rose is a classic variety known for its reliable white blooms. This rose bush can reach approximately 4 feet tall and 3 feet wide. Its medium-sized blooms may take on a pink hue as they age.
Variegated Daphne
One of the most fragrant plants in any garden, Daphne produces a sweet, fruity scent that becomes especially strong once the flowers open. This plant prefers full to partial sunlight and benefits from plenty of organic matter when planted. Variegated Daphne can grow up to 4 feet tall.
