One thought of a sultry summer in Spain or a cool twilight in Greece may just be enough to start you off designing a Mediterranean landscape theme of our own.

Southern European landscapes characteristically contrast intense colors and earth tones. Clay hues pick up the ground while blues direct our thoughts to the ocean of blue in the sky and sea. Stone, concrete and ceramics are frequently used over large areas while plants in bright pottery make for secondary accent foci. Mediterranean landscapes are often situated in sunlit courtyards in which trimmed lawns are replaced by stone or landscape gravel. Pergolas give shade where open timbered patios allow for light and circulation. Drought resistant plants can be assumed for traditional Mediterranean landscapes, namely olive trees and citrus plants. Lavender and geraniums also thrive in arid climates as well as the culinary herbs of rosemary and thyme. Hot and dry regions states like Texas, Arizona and New Mexico would be ideal sites for a Mediterranean courtyard, especially since they apply xeriscaping techniques for water conservation.