"I am no longer satisfied with having planted millions of plants. My new goal is to plant billions." Wolfgang Oehme

Prior to 1977 when Wolfgang Oehme and James van Sweden started their landscape architecture firm, North Americans had seen little use of ornamental grasses. Oehme, van Sweden Associates set out to change that and now, after 30 years, suppliers are still struggling to meet the high demand for grasses.

From the beginning the firm used grasses and perennials so effectively that the public was immediately captivated by this refreshing, non-tradional way of designing landscapes, often referred to as the New American Landscape style. This approach was a departure from the traditional lawn and foundation shrubs that dominated most homes and buildings. This new style focussed on elements such as sound and movement, rich textures, enhancing nature, dynamic four season interest and above all - low maintenance. Over the years this new style has been refined to a point where sustainable landscapes might be a more accurate description.

Most of these perennials are very vigorous growers and are suited to being planted in large drifts and allowed to fill in the spaces. When completely grown, the overall effect is a combination of large patches of colour and texture, producing a blend of art and nature.