ideas for Atrium plants and water fountain
We want to replant our Atrium. We have a lot of sun during the summer.
Any ides or recommentions? We also want to stick to some of the original Eichler plants.
We are also looking for a water fountain in the backyard.
Thanks so much
You don't say what you use your atrium for. If you have kids that throw balls or pets that rummage in the greenery, you're choices might be different that if it is simply a walk-through to the front door. Your possession (or lack, in my case) of gardening skills and time are also a factor.
I, personally, would recommend easy to grow, native, and/or drought resistant (low water needs) plants. My reasons are two-fold: water is an over-used, under-appreciated resource; and, plantings in the atrium break my rule of not having plantings next to your walls (subterranean termite shelter).
Meyer's asparagus fern fits the bill of good-looking, easy to grow, low water needs plants. I have several and they are really thriving, even in places where they are replacing something else that did not. If they get a lot of sun they are bright green, if partially shaded they are just darker. Occasional water allows them to flourish. They do tend to grow large (think up to 3' fronds) so plan accordingly. Of course, you can always give them a 'haircut' if they get out of hand. Here's some info and pictures:
http://www.mckeowninc.com/plants.html?pid=aspdenmm
If kids and pets are not an issue, Bouganvilla (sp?) vine does really well in sunny areas and does not require much water once established. It blooms beautifully with a little fertilizer but does well even without.
http://www.mckeowninc.com/plants.html?pid=bouora
Good luck.
Jake
