Many leaves offer shades of gray, blue, silver or gold. Color contrasts among foliage are often as striking as those among flowers, and they last longer. Foliage plants also add interesting texture which is important in garden design. In planning your garden, you want to achieve harmonious color blends. Neutral or subdued hues planted between brilliant colors will prevent clashes and make the brighter colors more prominent.
Colors are either warm or cool, depending upon the hue.
Reds and yellows are warm. These vibrant colors create an exciting, bold sweep of color and make a dramatic accent. White, blues and violets are cooler. A color scheme that combines warm and cool colors or intense hues and paler tints will create visual movement in the garden. A colorful border can be used to edge one side of a lawn.