Take advantage of existing mature trees already gracing your yard to create a woodland garden filled with colorful native shrubs, perennial wildflowers and ferns. Because plants that grow naturally in a region require less work, this design is not only beautiful and ecological, it's practical, too! Many woodland wildflowers die to the ground in mid-summer after putting on a flowery spring show, so the designer carefully sites longer lasting and evergreen types near the patio and house to provide summer-long color, and uses the ephemerals (those that die to the ground in summer) where they won't be missed later in the year. The garden includes native flowering shrubs to provide structure, form, flowers and foliage through the changing seasons. In addition to permanent woody plants, sizable areas of paving contribute to the garden's strong structure and low maintenance. The flagstones in the walk and circular terrace are arranged informally, in keeping with the garden's casual style. The pool of gravel substitutes for lawn (turf struggles in such a shady site) and is underlain with landscape fabric to thwart weeds and reduce maintenance. The low stone wall flanked by boulders echoes the terrace's curve and visually separates the plantings behind it, making the yard seem more expansive. Flagstone pavers lead from the terrace to the gravel pool and past a charming roofed garden swing. Set at the yard's perimeter, the structure offers a relaxing spot for solitary contemplation or a tête-a-tête. Call Out: Wildflowers and native shrubs turn a shady, tree-filled site into an easy-care paradise. Because there is no lawn, weekly maintenance chores are practically non-existent.