- Shrubs can add color to the landscape in the fall.leaves of the shrub image by GeoM from Fotolia.com
Landscape shrubs run the gamut in size, appearance and color. Choose your landscaping shrubs to accent your garden, provide screening or hedgerows, or attract birds, bees and butterflies. In many cases, native shrubs will grow more easily and require less care than non-native shrubs in the landscape. For best results, plant shrubs in early spring or autumn. - For creating hedges or filling in spaces between other plantings, boxwoods are a landscaping favorite. They are staples of formal gardens and do require regular trimming to keep their shape. About 3 feet tall at maturity, the boxwood grows slowly and mulching is necessary. Dwarf varieties are also available.
- Rhododendrons come from all over the world in a variety of colors, with more than 1,000 species. The American Rhododendron Society recommends grouping them in the landscape according to color, size and bloom season for best effect. It warns that landscapers must know the ultimate size of the particular shrub, as those that grow quickly can overtake slower-growing types. Also check the hardiness rating of particular rhododendrons to make sure they are suitable for the intended climate.
- Also known as Kalmia latifolia, this native American shrub is both flowering and evergreen. Growing upright, mountain laurel flowers each May and June. While it prefers sun, its roots need shade, so mulch well or plant companion flowers beneath it. Mountain laurel needs acidic, well-drained soil to flourish.
- This native American deciduous shrub, Sambucus canadensis, produces berries that can be used to make jam or wine. In midsummer, this upright shrub boasts white flowers. The elderberry prefers full sun and moist soils and grows up to 12 feet tall with a 10-foot spread. The Bushes and Shrubs website describes it as a "showy ornamental ideal for the garden."
Boxwoods
Rhododendron
Mountain Laurel
Elderberry
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