Lucky Hues: 5 Shades of Green and What They Mean

For neutral-leaning home decorators, green might feel like a far-out color. However, there are plenty of different shades of green and ways to incorporate them.  

Whether decorators are looking to completely refresh one of their rooms or searching for the right accent hue, here are five shades of green and the feelings they can bring. 

1. Sage Green 

Sage green, which leans more neutral, is associated with nature and tranquility. It can be fitting for bedrooms, living rooms and other spaces that promote relaxation and calm energies. The shade is also suitable for areas with abundant natural light. 

Example: Benjamin Moore October Mist. 

2. Smoky Green 

Another choice for more neutral home palettes, smoky greens typically lean more towards gray. Like sage, it evokes feelings of serenity and coziness but can add more warmth, depending on the specific shade. Often, a smoky green can feel moodier. 

Example: Sherwin Williams Evergreen Fog. 

3. Forest Green 

As the name implies, forest green is a very natural shade that evokes earthy feelings. It’s a darker shade of green that can make a room feel cozier if it’s painted all over, or it can be great for furniture and other accents, creating contrast within a lighter-colored room. 

Example: Benjamin Moore Forest Green. 

4. Lime Green 

Unlike many other greens, lime green is very bright and cheerful, evoking feelings of energy, optimism and creativity. It’s often associated with spring and freshness, and while probably not many people want a bold, lime-drenched room, this shade can be fun for statement accents within a room – especially a kitchen. 

Example: Benjamin Moore Tequila Lime. 

5. Blue-Green 

There are many different shades of blue-green, like teal and turquoise. In general, though, greens that lean towards blue can evoke a range of different feelings, including moodiness, tranquility and relaxation. The color often reflects natural elements like water and foliage, and it can fit especially well in bedrooms and bathrooms. 

Examples: Glidden Catalina and Sherwin Williams Blue Peacock.