Did you know that creating a private outdoor paradise is possible no matter what size property you are able to afford?
In fact, if you buy an apartment, townhouse or home on a small block, it’s often easier because the smaller the space you are working with, the smaller your budget for plants and outdoor furniture.
So even first-home buyers can create a welcoming outdoor space for entertaining friends and family.
Most outdoor areas can be transformed with a wash-down, a pot of paint and the right selection of plants, pots and screens.
Below, we’ve listed some plants that offer beauty, warmth and privacy in any courtyard. We hope they inspire you.
Bougainvillea
This is a fast-growing climber with broad leaves and flowers of striking color. Pink bougainvillea is common, but the “Burgundy Queen” variety has deep-red flowers. Regardless of which variety you select, this plant is guaranteed to offer privacy from your neighbours. If you install lattice on the courtyard walls, it will thrive. Its thorns are sufficiently nasty to be an excellent security guard, too.
Juniper
If you don’t have a green thumb, the hardy juniper is an excellent option. It’s drought-resistant and handles hot summer days, so you won’t have to water it regularly once it has bedded in. The Blue Arrow variety is a lovely choice, growing to about 3.5m and featuring light blue foliage.
Jasmine
Often a garden favourite, Jasmine is available in many varieties and is well known for the beautiful smell of its snow-white flowers in spring. It thrives on vines and is another excellent choice if you seek privacy. Star Jasmine is a favorite, but check with your local garden store to ensure you buy the most suitable variety for your needs.
Emerald Colonnade Holly
At about 3.5m fully grown, this lush evergreen offers a thick, almost impenetrable border around any courtyard. It has dense green foliage that thrives when cut back. It likes full sun and needs regular watering, especially if planted in pots.
Potato vine
Not an attractive name, but this is a beautiful semi-evergreen with blue-white blossoms and thick green foliage. It’s a great ornamental choice if you want to grow it on lattice or overhead for shade.