What do you put in a circular flower bed?

When it comes to designing a circular flower bed, selecting a suitable centerpiece is crucial. This centerpiece will not only serve as the focal point but also anchor the entire circle, adding visual interest and structure to the overall design. While an existing tree can be an excellent centerpiece, it is not necessary. There are numerous other options available to create an eye-catching centerpiece for your circular flower bed.

1. Ornamental Trees: If you don’t have an existing tree, you can choose a small ornamental tree as the centerpiece. Trees like Japanese maple, dogwood, or flowering cherry can provide a beautiful canopy and add height to your flower bed. Consider the size, shape, and color of the leaves, as well as the flowers or fruits it may produce.

2. Evergreen Shrubs: Another option is to use an evergreen shrub as a centerpiece. These shrubs retain their foliage throughout the year, ensuring your circular flower bed remains visually appealing even during winter. Examples include boxwood, yew, or holly, which provide structure and a backdrop for the surrounding flowers.

3. Tall Perennial Flowers: Selecting a tall perennial flower can add vertical interest to your flower bed. Plants like delphiniums, foxgloves, or hollyhocks can reach impressive heights and create a stunning centerpiece. Their vibrant blooms will attract pollinators and create a dynamic focal point within the circle.

4. Grasses: Ornamental grasses can also serve as an excellent centerpiece option. Their unique foliage and graceful movement in the wind can add texture and interest to the flower bed. Choose grasses like feather reed grass, fountain grass, or switchgrass for their varying heights, colors, and textures.

5. Foliage Plants: Consider using plants with interesting foliage as the centerpiece. This could be a plant with variegated or colorful leaves, such as hostas, heucheras, or coleus. The foliage will provide year-round interest, even when the flowers in the surrounding beds are not in bloom.

6. Sculptural Elements: Alternatively, you can incorporate sculptural elements like a decorative urn, a birdbath, or an artistic metal structure as the centerpiece of your circular flower bed. These elements can add visual appeal and create a unique focal point that complements the surrounding plants.

Remember to consider the size and scale of your flower bed when choosing a centerpiece. It should be proportionate to the overall size of the circle and not overwhelm or overshadow the surrounding plants. Additionally, take into account the growing conditions and maintenance requirements of the chosen centerpiece to ensure its long-term success.

Ultimately, the choice of a centerpiece for your circular flower bed depends on your personal preferences, the overall theme or style of your garden, and the specific conditions of the site. Experiment with different options, and don’t be afraid to make adjustments until you find the perfect centerpiece that brings your circular flower bed to life.

Photo of author

Caroline Bates

Caroline is a Miami-based landscaper who specializes in drought-tolerant landscapes. She is the mother of two young children and also enjoys writing for GreenPacks.org in her spare time. Caroline takes great pride in her work, and loves being able to share her knowledge with others through her writing.