Design a Gothic Garden and Embrace the Darkness

On This Page

Goth Gardening for the Spooky Season

With spooky season upon us and the fiery colors of fall in full splendor, now is the perfect time for Goth gardening to emerge from the shadows. This quirky trend is full of mysterious options that you can choose to make your area as dramatic as you wish.

Hearing “Goth garden” may conjure thoughts of murky paths with growling gargoyles, and it can be just that—if that’s your style. But it can also take a more stately route—think Gothic architecture, Victorianesque statues and grand chandeliers. Here are just a few elements to help evoke your eeriest inspiration!

Check out the top 10 dark colored flowers that are almost black.

Light Your Gothic Garden With Spooky Lanterns

Incorporate rich, velvety tones to set a decadent mood, and top it off with whimsical lanterns.

Discover surprising fall flower facts and folklore stories.

Try a Fancy Fountain as a Focal Point

Vertical Closeup Of An Ancient Outdoor Fountain In A Garden Wirestock/Getty Images

An ornate fountain makes a magnificent centerpiece—and can even double as a birdbath!

Ready to get in the Halloween spirit? Learn how to grow pumpkins and gourds.

Add Dark Drama With Wrought Iron

Wrought Iron Bench Dcwcreations/Getty Images

Classic wrought iron fencing and furniture are perfect for Gothic gardens. Just make sure it’s painted black!

Grow Plants With Black Foliage

Pw Heuchera Primo Black Pearl — Primo Black Pearl coral bells

The shiny, ruffled foliage of Primo Black Pearl coral bells adds a touch of fanciful charm to a Gothic garden.

Aas Orn.pepper Blackpearl 2006 Zornphoto — Ornamental Black Pearl pepper

As a yummy bonus, dark edible plants such as Black Pearl pepper or Dark Opal basil can complement your space too. While you can eat these, they also thrill your desire for black ornamental flair.

Also try these other black annual and perennial plants.

Decorate With Vintage Statues

Boy,angel,peck,someone,on,the,cheek,of,girl,angel, EKKAPHAN CHIMPALEE/Shutterstock

The weathered stone of vintage urns and statues, like these angels, creates a timeless look.

Next, meet the black birds that are always dressed for Halloween.

Sources

Originally Published: September 05, 2024

Author

Megan White

Megan is the senior editor of Birds & Blooms and has over 10 years of publishing experience. She is a member of the Minnesota River Valley Audubon Chapter and enjoys volunteering in various birding and wildlife initiatives.

Reviewer

Melinda Myers

Melinda Myers is a nationally known, award-winning garden expert, speaker, TV/radio host and author of more than 20 books. She is the instructor for The Great Courses How to Grow Anything DVD and Instant Video series and host of the nationally syndicated Melinda’s Garden Moments TV and Radio segments. With a master’s degree in horticulture and ...

Fact Checker

Kirsten Schrader

Now Birds & Blooms' content director, Kirsten has been writing about birding and gardening for 17 years. Her writing and editing roles have spanned the print and digital landscape. Although she has traveled to see amazing birds throughout the U.S., Kirsten has one dream bucket list bird—the male painted bunting.