Bear's Breeches are huge mound forming perennials with bright green deeply cut leaves. Bear Breeches leaves can reach up to one foot wide and two foot long, the plant alone can grow to three foot tall and up to six foot wide. From late spring to mid summer they produce tall spike flowers that are light pink to light purple. Hardy zones 7-10, they can take early day sun but need shade from the hot afternoon sun.
Farfugium is a clump forming perennial that is grown in gardens for its glossy dark green kidney shaped leaves. The leaves can grow up to a foot across making quite an impressive show. This native to Japan and Eastern Asia does well in moist shaded areas. Evergreen in warm climates, but will die to ground level in temperatures falling below 20 degrees. Daisy like yellow flowers bloom on a mostly leafless stalk. Farfugium works well in zones 7-10.
With its dark green velvety and glossy foliage with burgundy undersides, this plant makes a striking backdrop in a partial shade area. Growing to 3 foot tall, this alocasia will work well in a small patio area and also in containers. Alocasia does bloom with a small calla type flower, but the flowers tend to not be noticeable. Plant in a rich soil mix and water well until established. Hardy Zone 9.
In Texas, growing lilies is not easy. One species which has proven adaptable to all soil types is the Philippine Lily. Though it resembles the Easter Lily, this lily will bloom in the late summer months of June-August. As the evening cools down, the flowers release their scent. Mixed with night blooming Jasmines in a bed will add a great scented garden to any landscape. Seeds that fall to the ground will germinate without assistance. They can also be gathered and shared with other gardeners.
Society Garlic is an attractive ornamental from South Africa. With a its garlicky smell and taste, plant as part of a herb garden with thyme, purple leaf basil and rosemary. With the contrasting colors it will not only look good but, taste good. Leaves grow up to a foot long and a quarter inch wide hardy to zone 9, plant in full sun or light shade in a well drained soil.