Welcome to the vibrant world of tropical gardening, where lush foliage and vibrant flowers create a paradise in your own backyard. In this article, we explore a unique aspect of tropical garden – the captivating beauty of plants with black foliage, flowers, or accents.
To incorporate black plants into tropical landscape design, follow the design principles and strategies below. They’ll show you how to use black plants to create a visually stunning and captivating tropical garden that evokes a sense of elegance, drama, and exoticism.
Here are some key principles to consider:
How to use black plants in your garden
Contrast and Focal Points: Black plants provide a striking contrast against the lush, vibrant greens commonly found in tropical landscapes. Use them strategically to create focal points and draw attention to specific areas. Use black plants as a backdrop to brightly colored flowers or foliage to enhance their visual impact.
Texture and Form: Black plants can create a bold backdrop for other plants with contrasting textures and shapes. Consider combining black plants with those that have large, broad leaves or delicate, feathery foliage to create a dynamic composition.
Layering and Depth: Use black plants to add depth and dimension to your tropical landscape. Our eyes perceive dark colors to be further away and light colors to be closer to us. Position your black plants in the foreground, middle ground, or background to create layers of foliage that lead the eye through the garden.
Lighting and Shadows: Black plants can be used to play with light and shadow in the garden. Their dark foliage can absorb light and create intriguing shadows. Place them strategically to take advantage of natural sunlight filtering through the canopy. Alternatively, use accent lighting to highlight their unique features during the evening hours.
Balance and Composition: When using black plants, it’s important to consider overall balance and composition in your tropical landscape design. While black plants can create a bold statement, ensure that they are balanced with other plants of varying colors and heights.
Seasonal Interest: Consider the seasonal aspects of the black plants you choose for your tropical landscape. Some black plants may have additional features like flowers or seed pods that provide seasonal interest. Select plants with varied bloom times to ensure that your garden remains captivating throughout the year.
Black Foliage Plants:
In our collection you’ll find plants that don’t have truly black flowers or foliage. Instead they have the darkest shades of purple, maroon and green that give them a black appearance. In full sun you’ll be able to see tints of color, but in shady spots they’ll look darker, giving a black appearance.
Black Mondo Grass (Ophiopogon planiscapus ‘Nigrescens’)
With its strappy leaves that emerge black and gracefully arch, Black Mondo Grass is a stunning addition to any tropical garden in USDA zones 6-11. This low-growing perennial thrives in shade. It is a great addition to flower beds as a distinctive border or ground cover to provide dark contrast. Its small spikes of delicate lavender flowers contrast beautifully against the dark foliage.
Black Elephant Ear (Colocasia esculenta)
Known for its dramatic, heart-shaped leaves, Black Colocasia adds a touch of drama to your tropical oasis. It is perfectly suited for USDA zones 8-11. This water-loving beauty thrives in moist soil, making it an excellent choice for pond edges or water features. Its glossy, jet-black foliage reflects light, creating a striking visual impact.
New Zealand Flax (Phormium tenax)
Featuring upright, sword-shaped leaves in shades of deep burgundy, Phormium tenax brings an exotic touch to your garden. This evergreen perennial thrives in full sun to partial shade and is drought-tolerant once established. Its architectural form and dark color make it a popular choice for tropical-inspired landscapes in USDA zones 8-11.
Oxalis triangularis ‘Black Velvet’
Add a touch of elegance with the delicate beauty of Oxalis triangularis ‘Black Velvet.’ This low-growing perennial features triangular leaves in deep burgundy, almost black. It produces dainty pink or white flowers, creating a captivating contrast against the dark foliage. Plant it in a container or as a ground cover in partial shade. This particular Oxalis variety can thrive in USDA zones 7 to 11, making it suitable for a wide range of climates.
Black Coleus
With its velvety, dark burgundy to black leaves, Black Coleus brings depth and richness to your garden. This easy-to-grow annual thrives in partial shade to full sun and well-drained soil. Its vibrant foliage is perfect for adding splashes of color to beds, borders, or containers. Choose a dark purple shade and grow it in a part-shade location. Black Coleus thrives in USDA zones 10 to 11, preferring warm and tropical climates. It appreciates partial shade to filtered sunlight conditions to prevent scorching of its foliage.
Sambucus nigra ‘Black Lace’
For a touch of drama, look no further than Sambucus nigra ‘Black Lace.’ This deciduous shrub showcases lacy, dark purple-black foliage. Plant it as a backdrop to your favorite bright-colored feature plant. In late spring, clusters of pink flowers emerge, followed by black berries loved by birds. ‘Black Lace’ thrives in full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. It thrives in USDA zones 4 to 8 so is perfect for cool climate tropical gardens.
Black Sweet Potato Vine (Ipomoea batatas ‘Blackie’)
Add a cascading touch of black to your tropical garden with the Black Sweet Potato Vine. This vigorous, trailing vine features heart-shaped leaves in deep purple-black. It thrives in full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. Use it in hanging baskets, containers, or as a ground cover for stunning visual impact.
Cabbage Tree (Cordyline australis)
A true showstopper, Cordyline australis is commonly known as the Cabbage Tree. It boasts tall, palm-like stems with long, arching leaves in deep burgundy to almost black. This versatile plant is ideal as a focal point in your garden or as a striking accent in containers. It thrives in full sun and well-drained soil but you’ll need to protect it from frost. Grow it in USDA zones 9-11 for best results.
Black Prince Echeveria (Echeveria affinis ‘Black Prince’)
Black Prince Echeveria is native to Mexico and is suitable for USDA zones 9-11. This elegant plant showcases deep burgundy to almost black rose shaped leaves, which appear almost velvety in texture. In the summer, tall stalks emerge, adorned with vibrant orange-red flowers, adding a splash of color to the dark foliage.
Capsicum annuum ‘Black Pearl’
Spice up your garden with the fiery beauty of Capsicum annuum ‘Black Pearl,’ a compact pepper plant that adds a touch of intensity to your tropical oasis. Its glossy, dark purple to black leaves and abundant clusters of black fruits make this a visually stunning ornamental pepper plant. Suitable for USDA zones 9-11, it thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. The fruits start out black and ripen to a vibrant red, creating a captivating color display. Whether used in ornamental beds, containers, or as an edible garnish, the ‘Black Pearl’ pepper plant is sure to add a spicy flair to your garden.
Cordyline fruticosa ‘Black Magic’
Known for its bold and architectural form ‘Black Magic’ makes a striking focal point in gardens or as a statement plant in containers. Cordyline fruticosa ‘Black Magic’ features upright, strap-like leaves in shades of deep maroon to black. This tropical evergreen thrives in bright, indirect light and well-drained soil. It thrives in USDA Zones 10 to 12, so Cordyline fruticosa ‘Black Magic’ is well-suited for tropical and subtropical climates. It flourishes in areas with warm temperatures and high humidity. This makes it an excellent choice for gardens in coastal regions.
Coral Bells ‘Blackout’ (Heuchera)
Add a splash of dark sophistication to your garden with ‘Blackout’ Coral Bells. This stunning perennial that brings depth and contrast to your plantings. With its deeply lobed, almost black leaves, this Heuchera cultivar is a showstopper. Suited for USDA zones 4-9, it thrives in partial shade and well-drained soil. In early summer, delicate, bell-shaped flowers on slender stems rise above the foliage, adding a touch of charm. ‘Blackout’ Coral Bells make an excellent choice for borders, rock gardens, or mixed containers. It creates a striking visual impact and adds a touch of elegance to your outdoor space.
Begonia rex ‘Black Mamba’
The Black Mamba Rex Begonia (Begonia rex ‘Black Mamba’) is typically suited for USDA Zones 10-11. It thrives in tropical climates where temperatures remain consistently mild throughout the year. In these zones, it can be grown as a perennial outdoor plant. In cooler climates, the Black Mamba Rex Begonia can be enjoyed as a stunning indoor plant. With its captivating dark foliage, it makes an excellent choice for brightening up shady corners. Alternatively, use it to add visual interest to indoor plant displays.
Black Aeonium (Aeonium arboreum ‘Zwartkop’)
Black Aeonium, also known as Aeonium arboreum ‘Zwartkop,’ thrives in USDA zones 9-11. This makes it suitable for tropical and subtropical climates. It prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil, allowing it to flourish in a variety of garden settings. Plant it anywhere from rock gardens to containers. Low-maintenance and drought-tolerant, Black Aeonium requires minimal care once established. The rosettes consist of multiple overlapping leaves that range in color from rich burgundy to deep black.
Black Velvet Alocasia (Alocasia sanderiana ‘Black Velvet’)
Black Velvet Alocasia’s heart-shaped leaves have a unique texture and sheen, resembling velvet. The leaves emerge a deep, glossy black, providing a captivating backdrop for other tropical plants or serving as a focal point on its own. Its compact size makes it perfect for container gardening. To maintain the health and beauty of Black Velvet Alocasia, ensure regular watering to keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Maintain a warm and humid environment, mimicking its natural tropical habitat.
Black Flowering Plants:
Lilium ‘Black Beauty’
This lily variety, suited for USDA Zones 3-8, graces the garden with its large, trumpet-shaped flowers in shades of rich purple to nearly black. The dark, glossy petals release a captivating fragrance. This attracts pollinators such as butterflies and hummingbirds to your outdoor oasis. Blooming in mid to late summer, Lilium ‘Black Beauty’ adds a touch of drama to borders and beds. Its tall stems make it an ideal choice for creating striking floral displays and brings a sense of luxury to your garden.
Black Orchid (Prosthechea cochleata)
The Black Orchid, also known as Prosthechea cochleata or Encyclia cochleata, is a cherished floral emblem in Belize. The Black Orchid’s striking appearance, with its dark purple to nearly black petals and a yellow or white lip, make it truly remarkable. It thrives in bright, indirect light and well-drained soil, making it a prized addition to any tropical garden. Grow it in USDA zones 11 and 12 with warm temperatures and high humidity.
Black Hellebore (Helleborus niger)
Also known as the Lenten Rose, this evergreen perennial offers cup-shaped flowers in shades of deep purple-black. As one of the earliest bloomers in late winter or early spring, it brings a sense of drama to cold-weather gardens. Its dark, leathery foliage serves as an attractive backdrop to the elegant flowers. Best suited for USDA zones 3-8, plant the Black Hellebore in a partially shaded area with moist, well-drained soil.
Black Bat Flower (Tacca chantrieri)
Step into the realm of mystery and intrigue with the Black Bat Flower. Tacca chantrieri features large, black flowers resembling bats in flight. Its dark petals and long, curving bracts create an otherworldly appearance. Plant it in partial shade and well-drained soil to witness this unique tropical gem unfold.
Black Bearded Iris (Iris chrysographes)
With its velvety, near-black flowers, the Black Iris creates a captivating display. Iris chrysographes features stunning blooms with deep purple-black petals and yellow markings. This perennial iris thrives in full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. It’s perfect for adding drama and elegance to water features or garden beds.
Black Iris (Iris barbatus)
For a touch of enchantment, the Iris barbatus black iris is a wonderful choice. This perennial iris showcases unique, dark purple to almost black flowers with delicate ruffled petals. Its striking blooms add depth and allure to any tropical garden. Plant it in a sunny spot with well-drained soil and watch as its captivating beauty unfolds.
Black Ginger (Zingiber ottensii Valeton)
Introduce a touch of exoticism with Zingiber ottensii Valeton, commonly known as Black Ginger. This tropical plant features stunning dark purple to black inflorescences that emerge from tall stems. Its vibrant, torch-like flowers bring a burst of color and intrigue to your garden. It thrives in partial shade and well-drained soil and is best in USDA zones 10-11.
Black Calla Lily (Zantedeschia ‘Schwarzwalder’)
Black Calla Lily enchants with its ebony-black flowers. Whether grown in containers or borders, the Black Calla Lily adds sophistication to your garden. They can be grown in USDA Zones 8 to 10, where they thrive in mild to warm climates. Plant them in a location with moist soil and partial shade to filtered sunlight conditions.
Black Mamba Lily (Dracunculus vulgaris ‘Black Magic’)
Unleash the dark and mysterious allure of the Black Mamba Lily. Dracunculus vulgaris ‘Black Magic’ boasts large, deeply-lobed leaves in shades of deep purple to nearly black. Its dramatic flower, reminiscent of a cobra’s hood, emerges in a deep maroon or burgundy color. This attention-grabbing perennial thrives in partial shade and well-drained soil.
Amorphophallus konjac
One of the most intriguing features of Amorphophallus konjac is its inflorescence. The flower emits a pungent odor, attracting pollinators, and adding to the plant’s allure. Native to subtropical and tropical regions, Amorphophallus konjac thrives in USDA zones 7 to 10. It flourishes in well-drained soil and prefers partial shade or filtered sunlight. Use it to create a stunning focal point in your garden or indoor space. Its size and architectural form add drama and visual interest to tropical-style landscapes.
Plants with black accents
Black Bamboo (Phyllostachys nigra)
For an element of elegance and texture, consider the majestic Black Bamboo. Phyllostachys nigra is a clumping bamboo that hails from the subtropical regions of China. It has gained popularity worldwide for its stunning aesthetic appeal and its versatility in garden design. With proper care, it can thrive in USDA zones 7 to 10, making it suitable for a wide range of climates. It features upright culms that gradually turn from green to jet black. This creates a striking contrast against the lush green foliage. This fast-growing bamboo thrives in full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. Use it as a privacy screen, focal point, or as a unique accent in your tropical paradise.
Black Sugar Cane (Saccharum officinarum ‘Black’)
Add a touch of exotic elegance to your garden with the Black Sugar Cane. This remarkable plant, suitable for USDA zones 9-11, features tall stalks with rich, dark purple to almost black hues. As the plant matures, it develops beautiful golden blooms that create a striking contrast against its dark foliage. Besides its ornamental value, Black Sugar Cane can also be used to extract juice or as an ingredient in various culinary delights. Whether used as a focal point or as a unique addition to a tropical-themed garden, this plant is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Stripe-Leaved Banana (Musa acuminata ‘Zebrina’)
If you want to make a bold statement, the Stripe-Leaved Banana is a must-have. This dwarf variety boasts large, paddle-shaped leaves with a striped variegations in a dark maroon to black color. This ornamental banana plant thrives in full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil in USDA zones 9-11. In cooler climates grow it indoors in a large pot in front of a sunny window. Its dramatic foliage adds a tropical vibe to any garden, creating a striking focal point or an exotic backdrop.
Caladium bicolor
Caladiums traditionally come in shades of pink, white and green but if you are lucky you’ll find one with green so dark it appears black. The picture above shows a variety with black veining, and a reverse of this exists that has pink veining and black leaf tissue. Thriving in USDA zones 9 to 11, Caladium bicolor is well-suited for tropical and subtropical climates. Its preference for partial shade or filtered sunlight makes it a versatile choice for various garden settings. Whether planted in flower beds, containers, or hanging baskets, this plant adds a pop of color and elegance wherever it grows.
And a few extras…
Other black plants that aren’t necessarily tropical in their appearance, but that you might want to add to your garden include:
Black Dahlia
The Black Dahlia is a flowering plant that exudes elegance and charm. With its large blooms in shades of velvety black, this dahlia cultivar captures attention and captivates the senses. Suitable for USDA Zones 8-11, it thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. The Black Dahlia blooms from midsummer to fall. With its intricate petals and rich color, this striking flower is a true statement piece in any tropical-style garden. Use it to add drama and sophistication to garden beds, borders, or cut flower arrangements.
Black Velvet Petunia (Petunia x hybrida ‘Black Velvet’)
The Black Velvet Petunia is a stunning annual. With its rich, dark purple to black blooms, this petunia cultivar adds depth and contrast to any flower bed or container. Suited for USDA Zones 10-11, it thrives in full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. The Black Velvet Petunia blooms from spring to fall, continuously producing black flowers that make a bold statement. Grow it as a ground cover, edging, or in hanging baskets.
Black Barlow Columbine (Aquilegia)
This unique perennial adds a touch of cottage charm to your garden. With its double, dark purple to black flowers, this Aquilegia variety stands out among its counterparts. Suitable for USDA Zones 3-9, it thrives in partial shade and well-drained soil. Blooming in late spring to early summer, its delicate, nodding flowers and fern-like foliage create a romantic ambiance. Plant it in mixed beds or woodland areas to add a touch of cottage charm to your landscape.
Once you add black, you’ll never look back!
Now that we’ve explored the captivating world of black tropical plants, it’s time to unleash your creativity. Whether you’re designing a tropical paradise or a lush retreat consider using black foliage and flowering plants. They will undoubtedly add drama, elegance, and a touch of the exotic to your outdoor sanctuary.
As you embark on your gardening journey, don’t be afraid to experiment and let your imagination run wild. Combine different textures, colors, and heights to create dynamic and layered compositions. Incorporate these black plants as focal points, accents, or as part of mixed plantings to create a visually stunning yet harmonious tropical look.
So, go ahead, embrace the allure of black in your tropical garden, and be prepared to be captivated by the enchanting beauty that these plants bring. Get ready to create a tropical paradise like no other, where the darkness becomes the epitome of intrigue and fascination.
This article was written and researched by:
Last updated on:
Still have questions?
Are there concerns that were not addressed here? We’re here to help.
We think you might like to take a look at these too:
- How to choose the best pots for Monstera plants
- Backyard tropical landscaping ideas for along a fence
- Ultimate palm trees for around pools in your climate
- Gunnera is banned in the UK: What you need to do now
- Is stone or mulch best for tropical garden landscaping?
- How to propagate Philodendron Birkin: 3 easy methods
