Villa garden - Kortenberg
This park garden of 0.5 hectares was restored by the entrepreneurial landscape architect. Characterful, fast growing trees such as Juglans regia (common walnut) and Platanus hispanica (London plane) will create a balance with the existing trees and quickly give the garden the mature appearance required. Trees such as Liquidambar styraciflua (American sweet gum) and Nyssa sylvatica (black tupelo) will fill the garden with fiery autumn colours. Fully in keeping with the style of the house and its residents, a romantic style of planting was applied. Taxus baccata and Hedera helix 'Arborescens' provide structure through the seasons. Verbena bonariensis, Gaura lindheimeri, Pennisetum, anenomes and roses complete the romantic country character.
Nyssa sylvatica (black tupelo)
Nyssa sylvatica is a tree with a slightly shiny, green leaf. The branching structure is more or less horizontal and the lower branches tend to droop downwards which gives the tree a beautiful, natural silhouette. In autumn, the tree is spectacular; the scarlet to orange-red leaves make the tupelo one of the most striking autumnal trees of all. After the modest blossom, the small blue-black stone fruits appear. Nyssa sylvatica loves a nutrient rich, moist soil but can also tolerate drier ground.
Liquidambar styraciflua (amber tree)
Liquidambar styraciflua, better known as the American amber tree, is an imposing deciduous tree that excels in autumn. Its deeply incised leaves start out green, but fade to brilliant shades of red, orange and yellow in autumn. The tree has a pyramidal shape and a distinctive bark that becomes coarser with age. Ideal for larger gardens or parks, where it has a stately appearance both as a solitary tree and in groups.
Platanus hispanica (London plane)
The London plane is a fast-growing tree which can reach 20 to 30 m in height. The natural peeling of the bark creates a wonderful effect, in different tones of green to grey-green. The leaves are large and palmate, and the fruits are pendulous, spherical heads. It has a long lifespan and can grow into a striking, characterful tree. For small gardens, Platanus orientalis 'Minaret' is a nice alternative.
Juglans regia (Common Walnut)
Juglans regia is an imposing tree that offers both grace and functionality. Its broad, shady crown and pinnate leaves make it a wonderful addition to any garden. In autumn, the tree produces edible walnuts, loved for their flavour and versatility.