Spanish courtyards are tailor-made for San Antonio’s semi-arid climate, and we couldn’t be happier. Influenced by Roman and Moorish civilizations, Spanish-style courtyards and gardens are ideal for creating outdoor rooms for entertaining or relaxing.
Spanish courtyards typically feature a spacious hardscape area, a central fountain, bird bath or basin of water, container plants and limited planting areas.
There are lots of trees and plants that thrive here and give you a Spanish courtyard feel. Here are a few options you could incorporate into your design.
- Trees — Mexican olive, live oak, citrus, mesquite, crepe myrtle
- Shrubs — Knock Out roses, coral bean, esperanza, palms, bottle brush, pride of Barbados, pomegranate
- Cactus and succulents — sedums, spineless prickly pear, red yucca, agaves
- Creeping and filler plants — moss rose, rosemary, and herbs of all kinds
- Vines and weaving plants — crossvine, confederate jasmine, flame vine, evergreen wisteria
Bed areas are often limited so plants should be carefully selected. Invest in one or two large container in a vibrant color or classic terracotta to make a statement and plant each with a selection of 3 to 5 plants that do well in containers. Although patio and courtyard walls can be an investment, once in place they are simple to maintain and wonderful to enjoy.
