The Pond Garden

The Pond Garden is a woodland water garden incorporating plants that thrive in moist, shady conditions. Many of the woodland plants are native or naturalized in the eastern U.S. and most are spring bloomers with perhaps the best floral display in mid-May, whereas the water lilies tend to come into bloom as the weather warms into summer. 

The pond adds a great dimension of interest. Click for larger image. Its shiny surface reflects the light and the plants growing around it, and is pleasing to look at. The sound produced by the waterfall helps focus attention and promote a sense of peace. The six-foot-tall, large leaved colony of perennials running along the north side of the pond is Petasites japonica 'Giganthea' or Japanese Butterbur. Its large stature adds drama, but beware - it is a very invasive plant.