Tamamono: The Serenity of Foreground Shrubs

In Japanese-style gardens, foreground shrubs are often pruned into the semi-spherical shape known as tamamono. Repeated, this simple form contributes mass and stability to the garden, and a sense of peacefulness & tranquility as we encounter it

In the Garden, Japanese Garden DesignCorinne KennedySeptember 19, 2017Japanese Garden, Garden Design

Not Just Japanese Plants, Part II: Pacific NW Native Ferns in Our Garden

In combination with moss, NW native ferns are an important groundcover in the mountain and woodland areas of the Seattle Japanese Garden.

In the Garden, Plants and BloomsCorinne KennedyJuly 19, 2017

Not Just Japanese Plants, Part I: Pacific Northwest Native Shrubs In Our Garden

Have you ever wondered if any of the shrubs in the Seattle Japanese Garden are native to our area? Here’s a look at some iconic Pacific Northwest native shrubs. They’re planted at the south end of our garden – in the teahouse, mountain and woodland areas.

In the Garden, Plants and BloomsMark BourneJune 19, 2017

Vines, Viburnums and "Wild" Plants

When working on these wild plants, we are not trying to shape them. We are allowing them to grow “where they will” and simply making adjustments and clarifications.

The Arnold Azalea: A Wave of Color in Spring

Above the rock wall at the north end of the garden, a wave of evergreen azaleas blooms brilliant magenta-pink in late April and early May.

In the Garden, Spring, Plants and BloomsCorinne KennedyMay 19, 2017Azalea

Osmanthus – a Classic Evergreen bringing Structure & Fragrance to the Garden

Osmanthus is an under-appreciated gem of our Seattle Japanese Garden – and a favorite of mine....

A Quiet Legacy: The Juki Iida Scroll

Landscape architect Juki Iida left behind a little known legacy when he came to Seattle to oversee the installation of Seattle Japanese Garden: an ink-painted scroll. It provides a glimpse into the natural elements he incorporated into his design.

Japanese Camellias: Exceptional Flowers in Late Winter & Spring

Japanese Camelias are the showy stars of the early spring in our garden. A species grown for thousands of years, Japanese Camelias have a long history of being cultivated and prized for their beauty.

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