Most floral designers follow a simple formula to create balanced, showstopping containers. This system divides up plants into three categories: Thrillers, fillers, and spillers.
Thrillers are tall plants that stand out above the rest. These are often, but not always, the most colorful flower in the bunch. For a foliage plant arrangement, use caladium or your favorite species of ornamental grass. Place thrillers in the center or back of your container.
Fillers are mid-height plants that grow out rather than up. Choose plants that complement your thriller’s color and texture — you’ll need more than one variety for most containers. Plant fillers around the thrillers but leave some room around the edge.
Finally, spillers are plants that trail over the rim of your container. Common examples include creeping Jenny, sweet potato vine, and calibrachoa. While these plants don’t always offer much in terms of color, they bring a lot of dimension to your floral arrangement when planted along the container’s edge.