Thank you for the opportunity to enhance your outdoor entrance space. Below is our proposed plant selection for the three existing large black planters. The goal is to create a visually engaging, low-maintenance arrangement that thrives in partial sun conditions year-round and a perennial that comes back around. All three pots will feature the same primary plant. We’ve also included suggestions for underplantings that provide both aesthetic and functional benefits, such as repelling insects.

Option 1 - Tall Feature:

Recommended Plant: Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum) or Serviceberry (Amelanchier spp.)

- Adds height and elegance with seasonal interest
- Handles partial sun and provides vibrant foliage in spring and fall
- Suitable for urban exposure with moderate watering

Option 2 – Evergreen Structure:

Recommended Plant: Dwarf Hinoki Cypress, Boxwood, or Blue Star Juniper

- Evergreen year-round interest with soft texture
- Naturally compact and low-maintenance
- Offers visual contrast with brick backdrop and darker pot

Option 3 – Texture & Soft Color:

Recommended Plant: Dwarf Fountain Grass (Pennisetum ‘Hameln’) or Heuchera (Coral Bells)

- Adds soft movement and texture
- Drought-tolerant once established
- Heuchera offers colorful foliage with seasonal blooms

i’ll also add some lavender, lemon balm and citronella for bug repellent and fragrance.

I recommend choosing one primary plant species to create symmetry and cohesion, with complementary underplantings to soften the base and add seasonal interest. All suggested combinations are suitable for large outdoor containers and partial sun conditions in NYC.

Planter Pricing

Japanese maple tree - Estimated price range $120 - $250

Dogwood - $150 - $230

Serviceberry - $150 - $250

weeping cherry - $150 - $250

Bluestar juniper - $200

Japanese Holly - $150

Plant Delivery (Local NYC)

$200

Based on number of plants & supplier location

Soil & Compost (per pot)

$100