In the world of garden design, colour is one of the most powerful tools at our disposal and few palettes make a statement quite like jewel tones. Arid Namibia can do with saturated hues inspired by precious stones such as emerald, ruby, amethyst and sapphire, which can turn any garden into a luxurious, vibrant retreat. These colours not only elevate the outdoor aesthetic but also add depth, drama and year-round interest.

Emerald for lushness
Emerald green provides the perfect backdrop for a jewel-toned garden. Lush foliage in the form of ornamental grasses or boxwoods come to mind. Gardeners can achieve striking hedges with plants such as duranta, viburnum and hedera (ivy). Incorporating different textures and shades of green will enhance the lushness of the space and provide a perfect contrast to brighter colours.

Be bold with reds and blues
Plants that offer deep red and blue blooms add instant drama. Think red dahlias, peonies, dark red roses or cannas planted in large groups. Delicate red foliage such as Nandina domestica also add to more permanent colour. Delphiniums, ranging from purple to light blue, are a delight. So are salvias (sage), cornflowers and dark blue agapanthus. These shades work especially well in borders and focal points.

Elegance with amethyst and citrine
Don’t overlook the beauty of purples and golden yellows. Choose from amethyst-hued Petrea volobilus, or agapanthus, tulbachia, and the evolvulus 'blue my mind' dwarf morning glory. Lavender lends softness and sophistication, while citrine-inspired tones from coreopsis, thunbergia, black-eyed susans, hemerocallis, day lilies, rudbeckia, bulbinella, Euryops pectinatis and marigolds provide a sunlit contrast. Yellow foliage adding to permanent colour could be a hedge like Sheena’s Gold, the lemon cypress, or the shrub Eliagnus pungens with its yellow-bordered green leaves. When layered thoughtfully, these colours create a dynamic, jewel-box effect that shifts with the light and seasons.

Blend them well
To avoid overwhelm, balance vibrant tones with grounding neutrals such as stone pathways, terracotta pots or wooden structures. Group similar colours for a bold monochromatic impact or merge complementary jewel tones for a more eclectic, artistic feel. Lighting also plays a key role: warm-toned garden lights or uplighting can intensify jewel tones at dusk, creating a magical evening atmosphere.

Consider these options and many more for a new border, a series of stoep pot plants or a newly refreshed landscape. You can count on jewel tones to add richness and refinement to your garden. They remind us that outdoor spaces can be equally stylish and expressive as interior ones: luxurious, vibrant, and full of life.

Pupkewitz Megabuild:
Eugene le Roux
Horticulturist
Cell: 081 124 6965