This grouping of fountain-form plants almost always has something in bloom, but on those occasions when there are no flowers, the varying foliage colors, heights, widths and degrees of curvature create an enormously pleasing picture. So it's not the number of species in a landscape that contributes to or destroys balance, but how those species blend. I have another spot in my garden that always appears jumbled and disorderly. It features fewer species than the other area I described but contains plants so dissimilar that they seem to clash. Some of the specimens involved are valuable, at least to me, so I'm hoping the incompatibility will subside as they mature.
Gardeners use repetition in many ways, particularly in certain themed landscapes.
Planting an area, or even an entire landscape, with species having similar blossom color is one type of theme. Although designing an entire Florida garden in blue, for instance, is quite a challenge, many gardeners thrive on challenge. If you attempt this sort of design, be sure to gradually transition from the themed site to the surrounding area. And remember to also consider each plant's size, shape and foliage color. There are limitless themes for adventurous green-thumbers to pursue on whatever scale they wish.