Though there are very few plants that naturally come in a true black color, there are countless options that range from dark reds to rich, deep purples. Whether you’re looking to add a pop of contrast to your lush greenery or planning to start fresh, there are so many unique options to consider!

In terms of foliage and texture, there are a surprising number of grasses, shrubs and trees that come in darker shades. Black Forest Cake Heuchera is a unique type of coral bell that produces dark purple leaves and crimson red flowers. Elephant ears, another easy and familiar plant, can come in all sorts of dark purples and pinks, with some even having reddish veining. For some vertical texturing, black mondo grass is a silvery blue-black and is great for lining pathways or filling open spaces. Some variations will even produce little lilac flowers! The Lilla smoke bush and Japanese maple tree are great accompanies to create height in the form of small trees that produce fiery dark red leaves when in season.

On the floral side, there are tons of gorgeous options. An absolute must-have in a goth garden would be SUMMERIFIC® 'Holy Grail' Hibiscus, which has rich purple-black leaves and crimson red flowers. For a more spooky look, black bat flowers are a dark magenta tropical flower that can do well in Missouri’s hot, humid summers. As their name suggests, they resemble bat ears and put out creepy tendrils from the center of the bloom. Black Helleborus is a unique flower for the fact that it blooms in late winter. Its velvety purple blooms against the white snow would surely make a dramatic statement. Finally, for more familiar options you may already have in your garden now: irises, tulips and lilies can all come in dark shades of magenta, purple and red.

Additionally, for those who like to have their goth whimsy and eat it too—there are varieties of purple tomatoes, carrots, peppers, basil and kale that are all known to do well in Missouri.