Cher's Moroccan-inspired yard is a masterclass in creating a garden that is both practical and aesthetically pleasing

Nothing is more iconic than Cher, except (maybe) her former Malibu home. The impressive estate takes inspiration from North African and Middle Eastern design, for a beautiful house imbued with years of history. Ideated by the incomparable Martyn Lawrence Bullard, even the front garden is impressive.

Driving up to the property, visitors will see front yard landscaping with a Moroccan-style fountain in front of arched doorways. Sandstone tiles form the base of the outdoor space, surrounded by lush green beds. It's clear the courtyard stays bright all year round.

Cher's garden idea provides more than just looks. Thom Rutter, master gardener and H&G gardens editor states: 'The planting used in Cher's front yard has been selected for both practical and aesthetic reasons.'

He continues, 'Inspired by tropical garden ideas, Cher has incorporated drought-tolerant planting ideas alongside a central star-shaped water feature and light-colored stone, perfectly complementing her Malibu home behind.'

Thom Rutter

Thomas is a Content Editor within the Gardens Team at Homes and Gardens. He has been working as a gardener and garden writer for several years. Whilst completing his Horticultural Traineeship at the Garden Museum, London, he was able to gain experience at many of the UK's world-famous gardens, including Sissinghurst, Lowther Castle, and Iford Manor. Following this, he worked for two private estates in Tuscany, Italy.

'Using two large, perfectly straight palm trees is a dramatic and impactful addition to singer's front yard, appearing much like Roman or Greek columns. Standing sentinel outside of Cher's front porch, these two impressive palm trees help to define the entranceway and draw the eye,' adds Rutter.

He continues outlining the practical considerations that went into designing a garden like Cher's. Rutter says: 'These palms, along with the tropical planting grown in Cher's garden borders, have been selected not only because of their attractive foliage and shape but also because of their ability to tolerate dry and hot weather.'

For those interested in recreating her beautiful look in your own green space, similar considerations must be taken into account. Rutter tells H&G: 'Today, all gardeners must consider how best to minimize water use, and with warming global temperatures, planting selections should be appropriate for the local climate and your specific US hardiness zone.'

Furthermore, he says, 'If you reside in a warmer zone, selecting plants with lower water requirements will ensure that your plants thrive and will also reduce the burden on natural resources in your local area. This is more important now than ever, with many states – such as Texas and California – experiencing unprecedented levels of drought in recent years.'

Cher's former Malibu home is the pinnacle of beautiful garden design that is both stylish and practical. With careful planning and expert input, yours can be too.