Modern garden - Kortenberg
This young, modern garden in Kortenberg looks out across a green landscape. The landscape architect and garden entrepreneur used the depth of the garden to enhance the view across the landscape beyond. The garden is connected with the cultural landscape through the integration of a modern orchard with varieties of Juglans regia (walnut), Prunus avium (cherry) and Pyrus communis (pear). Evergreen Quercus ilex (evergreen oak) planted in a row lead the line of sight to the orchard and the landscape beyond. These trees will also create a visual buffer between the garden and the neighbours. The feeling of a flower meadow was replicated with the ornamental grasses Pennisetum alopecuroides 'Hameln' and Stipa tenuissima in combination with perennials such as Verbena bonariensis, Gaura lindheimeri, Salvia nemorosa, Echinacea purpurea and Sedum and Geranium varieties.
A multi-stemmed Parrotia persica (Persian ironwood) and a solitary Cercis chinensis 'Avondale' (Chinese redbud) provide height and relief to the front garden and produce colour early in the year. Parrotia persica heralds the arrival of spring with its red blooms in February-March and Cercis chinensis 'Avondale' takes over with violet-pink blossom in April-May. Later in the year, both trees display impressive autumn colours. To bring structure to the front garden, the evergreen Japanese holly Ilex crenata 'Dark Green' was used.
Parrotia persica (Persian ironwood)
Parrotia persica is often grown as a multi-stemmed tree but also as a standard tree a very valuable addition to the garden. Suitable also for the smaller garden or front yard as it will rarely grow taller than 10m. Parrotia perscia ‘Vanessa’ also has a more upright growth which makes it ideal for smaller sites. As a multi-stemmed tree, Parrotia persica is sought after for its beautiful whimsical branch structure. It blossoms quite inconspicuously before the leaves emerge, but the bright red anthers are especially good to see as they grow older. A special ornamental value is also the beautiful autumn colouration in golden yellow, orange-red to purple.
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.
Cercis chinensis ‘Avondale’ (Chinese Judas Tree)
Cercis chinensis ‘Avondale’ is a compact and striking ornamental tree that shines in early spring with an abundance of bright pink flowers, which bloom directly on the bare branches. After flowering, the heart-shaped, glossy green leaves appear, giving the tree a charming appearance. Its small size makes this Judas tree ideal for small gardens or as a pot plant.
Quercus ilex (Holm oak)
Quercus ilex, better known as the holm oak, is an elegant evergreen tree that provides a Mediterranean atmosphere all year round. With its dark green, glossy leaves and robust growth form, this tree is a durable and decorative choice. Thanks to its compact crown and good pruning tolerance, it is suitable as a solitair, standard tree, hedge or topiary tree.