Five Ways to Paint Your Landscape Red

Red signifies passion and drama—in the garden it stimulates energy and commands attention. Here are five strategies to harness this fiery hue.

1. Command Attention

Like a stop sign, red directs the eye. Swaths of red impatiens funnel visitors to the front door. Use crimson flowers to highlight urns, planters, fountains. In dry climates where plants are sparse, a little red goes a long way.

2. Layer for Effect

Red visually advances, making large gardens feel cozier. Plant it at the end of a long walkway to pull guests forward. Pots of red flowers on front steps or flanking the door extend a warm welcome.

3. Choose Shades of Difference

Red-browns and terra-cotta reds (often from foliage) give an autumnal warmth. Dark reds and deep purples recede at dusk—limit them for evening gardens. Red and yellow are a classic sun-loving summer combo.

4. Play It Cool

Temper red’s intensity with green. A touch of Japanese blood grass (Imperata cylindrica ‘Red Baron’) amid blues, grays, and greens refreshes. Airy red yarrow with spiky purple salvia balances hot and cool.

5. Use Unexpected Focal-Point Flowers

Beyond impatiens and geraniums, try kangaroo paw (Anigozanthos ‘Red Cross’), Mukdenia ‘Crimson Fans’ (blurs flower/foliage line), or Bright Eyes montbretia (Crocosmia × crocosmiiflora)—stunning alone or with daylilies.