A rather restricted plant palette for each season usually works best, and provides a sense of visual continuity, simulating nature. Many indigenous plants are appropriate for this style of garden, supplemented by suitable non-native, or quasi-native, plants. Small trees such as Japanese Maples, Flowering Dogwoods and Magnolia, and shrubs such as Mock Orange or Redtwig Dogwood form the woodland’s understory. Ferns, Hostas, Epimediums, Native Ginger, Fernleaf Bleeding Hearts and Solomon’s Seal planted in larger sweeps and colonies shape the tapestry of the ground layer. They are best repeated throughout the garden or border to mimic nature. Shade-loving bulbs add spring color, e.g. Scilla sibirica, Chionodoxa forbesii or Leucojum aestivum. During periods of summer drought the soil can become quite dry, as ground covers and perennials compete with tree roots for moisture and nutrients. Rain, if present, does not always reach the ground. All of the above-mentioned plants, while relatively drought-tolerant, will require supplemental irrigation during the summer months and into fall. They can form thick understory growth, thus minimizing weed emergence.

Large, moss-covered boulders can enhance the natural appearance and add visual appeal. Bark mulch applied as a top layer around the plants retains moisture and resonates the woodland theme. A birdbath or water feature attracts birds, and the sound of trickling water adds to the ambiance, and buffers outside noise.