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Evergreen flowering shrubs full sun


14 Amazing Evergreen Flowering Shrubs for Full Sun

Winter is a dreary time when its cold, white blanket turns our once vibrant landscapes into skeletons. Evergreen plants add lush greenery and a pop of color to your flower and garden beds year-round. Whether you live in the cold northern regions or southern regions with mild winters, here are some of the best evergreen flowering shrubs for full sun.

When many people hear “evergreen,” they immediately think of pine trees. Evergreen plants come in a variety of shapes and sizes that fit in any space around your property.

Unlike deciduous plants that completely lose their foliage in the winter, evergreens lose their leaves much more gradually, usually slowly enough to remain green throughout the entire season. There are some other benefits to evergreen plants, though.

These plants also provide shelter for animals throughout the winter and lower electric costs by shielding your home from harsh winds or scorching sunlight. Planting evergreens around your home takes little work and pays you back for years to come.

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Table of Contents

  1. The Most Stunning Evergreen Flowering Shrubs for Full Sun
    • A Homeowner’s Favorite Evergreen: Rhododendron (Rhododendron ferrugineum)
    • Hydrangea (Hydrangea macrophylla)
    • Buxus (Buxus sempervirens)
    • Spirea Bush (Spiraea) – A Hardy Flowering Shrub
    • Ilex (Ilex aquifolium)
    • Lilac (Syringa vulgaris)
    • A Unique Flowering Shrub for Landscaping: Camellia (Camellia japonica)
    • Butterfly Bush (Buddleja davidii)
    • Japanese Snowball (Viburnum plicatum)
    • Hibiscus (Hibiscus rosa-sinensis) – Shrubs with a Tropical Appearance
    • Mountain Laurel (Kalmia latifolia)
    • Creeping Phlox (Phlox subulata)
    • A Shrub Worth the Effort: Gardenia (Gardenia jasminoides)
    • Candytuft (Iberis sempervirens)

Flowering shrubs, as well as quick growing evergreen trees, provide privacy, display color for years, and attract beneficial pollinators. On top of that, there are hundreds of varieties for you to choose from.

When you’re looking for full-sun shrubs that suit your home’s aesthetic, make sure each species is equipped for the zone that you live in and that the growth habit is suitable for the bush.

In most cases, full sun means that the plant gets at least six hours of sun per day. If the plant you’ve chosen is a little more shade-tolerant, it should receive at least three hours of sun per day.

Most evergreens can be planted at any time, but the absolute prime time to plant them is in the early spring, right after the soil has thawed and the frost is gone. Thoroughly water the plants each week to encourage root development.

A newly planted evergreen shrub may drop its needles or leaves in transplant shock. This shedding is normal, so don’t worry about this for the first month or two. As always, do as much research on your own before planting a new shrub. After a few months, you’ll fall in love with your evergreen flowering shrubs for full sun.

A Homeowner’s Favorite Evergreen: Rhododendron (Rhododendron ferrugineum)

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Rhododendrons are color shrubs that are a long-time favorite for landscapers due to their clusters of fragrant, delicate flowers that are purple, pink, red, orange, white, or yellow. Azaleas are also from the genus Rhododendron and are nearly identical.

Azalea leaves are smaller, more pointed and narrower, while rhododendron leaves are larger and more leathery. These shrubs prefer lots of rainfall and humid summers but are found from the tropics of Florida up to the forests of Canada.

If planting in zones three through six, plant them in full sun to increase flower production and avoid mildew. In planting in zones seven or higher, place them in an area that receives afternoon shade.

Hydrangea (Hydrangea macrophylla)

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Hydrangeas are another evergreen favorite. They offer large, colorful flower heads, tolerate nearly all soil types, and are easy to cultivate. The ball-shaped flowers bloom from mid-spring to early fall and are blue, hot pink, white, or lavender.

Plant hydrangeas in the spring after the frost, or in the fall before the frost. They thrive in well-drained soil, but adding compost further enriches it. Many species are shrubs for sun, while others prefer it in the morning with afternoon shade.

Make sure they have plenty of water for the first two years. Prune them in the summer after flowering. Did you know that you can change the color of some hydrangea species? All you need to do is change the acidity of your soil.

Pink and red flowers grow in alkaline soil, while blue flowers grow best in acidic soil. The color change won’t be immediate but happens after only a few months.

Buxus (Buxus sempervirens)

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Buxus, often referred to as box plants or boxwood, is a hardy plant that showcases dense, variegated greenery with small, yellow flowers in the spring. This evergreen shrub is our favorite because of its sleek look and many benefits.

Add buxus randomly throughout your landscaping or in a row to create a small privacy hedge. They also look fantastic incorporated into rock gardens for a pop of color. They survive in full sun, part shade, or full shade.

Water regularly if planted in full sun to avoid the soil drying out. Growing boxwood entails low maintenance once the plants establish. Keep them as small bushes by pruning or let them grow for a larger specimen. The most work required involves watering if the soil is dry and mulching around the roots during the fall.

Buxus are most prone to leaf miner pests that yellow the foliage but are easily treated with insecticidal spray. They are also deer resistant.

Spirea Bush (Spiraea) – A Hardy Flowering Shrub

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People love spirea bushes because of their hardiness, fast growth, and eye-catching beauty of cascading white or pink flowers. These evergreen shrubs grow anywhere from two to six feet tall, so make sure to plant them in an area that accommodates their size.

Once you plant a spirea bush, they require minimal work. Make sure they have well-drained soil and mulch around them to retain moisture.

Water them regularly to promote flower blooming and growth. Aphids may become a problem but rarely enough to require treatment.

Ilex (Ilex aquifolium)

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Ilex is most commonly known as holly and is famous for its bright red berries. Keep in mind that only the female shrubs produce these berries and may require that you plant a male holly plant nearby.

However, some female varieties don’t demand a male, although they may be harder to find at a nursery. Water holly bushes daily for the first week after planting and twice a week for one month after that.

Fertilize your ilex once a year with a balanced fertilizer. Once the bush is established, they don’t require much watering unless experiencing a drought.

If this is the case, water them so that they receive two inches of water per week. If you discover that your ilex was damaged from winter winds, wrap them in burlap to protect them.

For an extra pop of color, grow some creeping ground cover plants with bright colors at the base of your holly bushes.

Lilac (Syringa vulgaris)

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We love lilacs for their bright, purple clusters of flowers and their signature, sweet fragrance. Different varieties allow the plant to bloom in either early spring, mid-season, or late-season.

Depending on the type, lilacs grow anywhere up to 15 feet and a great for attracting butterflies. Lilacs grow best in fertile soil with neutral alkalinity. For the best flowering, they require a minimum of six hours of sun every day.

Transplant lilacs in the fall for the best results, although they are okay to transplant in the spring as well. Prune lilacs in the spring right after they bloom. If you’re unsure if your lilac requires pruning, a good sign is that your flower clusters are shrinking.

A Unique Flowering Shrub for Landscaping: Camellia (Camellia japonica)

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Camellias are attracting old fashioned shrubs that feature dark green leaves year-round and stunning blooms of pink flowers in the late summer. As they mature, their foliage provides shade to their roots that help them thrive in full sun. Do not plant them too deep and give them ample moisture.

Prune to shape your camellias as often as necessary, but don’t remove more than one-third of the plant each time. These flowering shrubs are susceptible to scale, which is preventable by treating them with yearly insecticide.

Butterfly Bush (Buddleja davidii)

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The name says it all. Butterfly bushes come in a multitude of colors that attract butterflies and other pollinators to your home and garden. These hardy plants survive regions up to zone eight and only require deadheading and annual pruning in the late winter.

Spring or fall is the best time to plant butterfly bushes. Give them five to ten feet of space between each plant with one inch of water per week.

Deadhead flowers as soon as they start to wither to prevent spreading because they are considered an invasive species. Cut them down to the ground every spring to stimulate blooming and growth.

Japanese Snowball (Viburnum plicatum)

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There are many species of viburnum, but one of our favorites is the Japanese snowball. Their large globes of white flowers and green foliage offer year-round beauty with little maintenance. The small, oval fruits also provide an excellent food source for wild birds.

A mature Japanese snowball grows anywhere from eight to 15 feet. They thrive best in zones five through eight and tolerate many different soil types.

One thing gardeners love about these shrubs is that they have no dangerous pests or diseases that have to be taken care of.

Hibiscus (Hibiscus rosa-sinensis) – Shrubs with a Tropical Appearance

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The hibiscus plant is a perennial that is referred to as the rose of Sharon or swamp rose. When flowering, the disc-shaped flowers bloom up to twelve inches across. Although these annual tropical shrubs seem delicate, the plants can withstand much colder climates.

Plant the hibiscus so that it isn’t exposed to strong winds and place them two to three feet apart. Remove dead stems in the early spring and apply a balanced fertilizer. Water the plants thoroughly.

Mountain Laurel (Kalmia latifolia)

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Mountain laurel is a colorful shrub that looks good as a border or as foundation plantings. They look stunning in mass plantings. The cluster of small pink and white flowers have dark, maroon markings that supply your yard with a one-of-a-kind appearance.

Mountain laurel’s root system is shallow and demands frequent watering. They don’t require a ton of fertilizer – too much may cause it to bloom poorly. Once flowers fade, cut them off to stimulate growth.

Creeping Phlox (Phlox subulata)

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Creeping phlox varieties provide groundcover in the early spring or taller blooming in late summer. They have star-shaped white and pink flowers and are successful in nearly all gardens. On top of that, they have a pleasant fragrance and are low maintenance.

Plant creeping phlox in early to late spring in moist, well-drained soil. Less than one inch of water per week is required to make this plant happy. Remove dead or faded flowers and divide the plant every few years to ensure disease-free plants.

A Shrub Worth the Effort: Gardenia (Gardenia jasminoides)

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Although gardenia shrubs offer beauty loved by many homeowners, this shrub is a bit finicky. They are more cold-sensitive than the other evergreen shrubs listed here and prefer areas with more mild winters or to be grown in pots and moved indoors for the winter.

If you don’t mind putting in a little extra care, fertilize gardenias monthly from April to November with high-acid soil.

Don’t let the extra work turn you off from this evergreen flowering shrub. Their fragrance, creamy-white flowers, and dark green leaves offer a beauty that’s well worth the effort.

Candytuft (Iberis sempervirens)

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Candytuft is a native plant to Europe but has adapted well to nearly all zones. Plant this 12-18 inch tall plant in well-drained, alkaline soil in full sun. The flowers are typically white, but some have lilac and pink flowers as well.

Spread mulch or grass clippings around the plant to promote moisture retention. Prune up to half of the growth in late spring or early summer. Feed the shrubs at least twice each season with a low-nitrogen fertilizer.

Adding evergreen flowering shrubs for full sun to your garden or landscape often requires little work for year-round beauty. Every home benefits from incorporating these types of plants around your yard.

The green foliage in the dead of winter makes your home stand out among your neighbors and inspires them to incorporate evergreen shrubs into their landscaping.

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We hope this article provided you with plenty of incentive to update your landscape this summer. If you found some new evergreen flowering shrubs for full sun to add around your home, share this list of evergreen plants on Facebook and Pinterest.

Flowering Evergreen Shrubs For Full Sun (With Pictures)

Flowering evergreen shrubs for full sun are the perfect addition to a sunny garden landscape. Sun-tolerant evergreen bushy plants add visual interest throughout the year. Basking in at least six hours of sunshine, these shrubs fill front and backyards with stunning fragrant flowers from spring until fall and keep their leaves throughout winter. 

Many flowering shrubs with evergreen foliage thrive in direct sunlight. Despite intense sunshine, shrubs like camellias, tropical hibiscus, cape jasmine, and rhododendrons bloom throughout the season. Added to this, the flowering shrubs don’t lose their foliage, creating beautiful greenery in a winter landscape. 

Picking the best flowering evergreen shrubs for planting in sunny spots is important, as some landscaping shrubs struggle with all-day-long direct sunshine. Shrubs listed as full sun or partial sun will blossom and thrive without sun damage to their foliage and flowers. 

This article lists the best flowering evergreen shrubs for full sun. In addition, descriptions and pictures of sun-loving landscaping shrubs will help you choose the best plants to add floral displays to your garden landscape.  

Even if you live in colder climates, many sun-tolerant flowering shrubs retain their leaves in freezing conditions.

What Are Flowering Evergreen Shrubs For Sun?

Flowering evergreen shrubs for full sun are woody, multi-stemmed plants that require at least six hours of direct sunlight. Typically, sun-tolerant evergreen flowering shrubs are divided into two categories—shrubs for full sun and shrubs for partial sun.

Flowering evergreen shrubs for full sun thrive on six to eight hours of daily sunshine. Typically, the decorative shrubs don’t tolerate shade; otherwise, they may produce fewer blooms or become leggy with sparse foliage. 

Ornamental evergreen shrubs for partial sun will get by on four to six hours of direct sunlight. Usually, the shrubby plants will tolerate a few hours of shade. However, “partial sun” shrubs are more heat and sun tolerant than shrubs for partial shade.

How to Choose Flowering Evergreen Shrubs For Full Sun

How can you pick suitable evergreen shrubs to plant for a floral landscape display in full sun? First, buy shrubs for your USDA growing zone. Next, think about the mature height and width of the full-sun shrub. Then, consider factors such as soil type, pruning needs, sun exposure, and moisture levels. 

For example, suppose you have a small, compact yard. In that case, dwarf flowering evergreen shrubs for sunny gardens are the best choice. They require little maintenance or pruning to keep their small size and shape.

However, if you want to grow a tall, evergreen privacy hedge that flowers, then planting larger evergreen shrubs is the best choice for privacy in a backyard.

Types of Flowering Evergreen Shrubs For Sun (With Pictures) – Identification Guide

There are many types of flowering evergreen shrubs for full sun. So how can you choose the best shrubs for your front or backyard? This guide will help you identify some of the most common and most beautiful bushes that will thrive in your garden landscape.

Camellia Sasanqua (Camellia sasanqua)

Camellia sasanqua are beautiful flowering evergreen shrubs for sunny locations with various cultivars including dwarf shrubs

Camellia sasanqua is a group of spectacular flowering landscaping shrubs with evergreen leaves. Camellia shrubs are identified by their showy double flowers in shades of pink, white and red, glossy dark-green, lance-shaped leaves, and long blooming time. Sun-loving camellia shrubs grow 8 to 12 ft. (2.4 – 3.6 m) tall. 

Camellia sasanqua evergreen shrubs have beautiful flowers consisting of ruffled petals. The shrubs bloom in late winter and early spring, and the fragrant blooms last for up to four weeks. Suitable for planting in USDA zones 7 to 9.

If you want to grow evergreen flowering shrubs in a compact garden or container, choose a dwarf shrub variety. For example, the Camellia sasanqua ‘Bonanza dwarf’ is a small landscaping evergreen shrub with stunning red flowers. 

Another variety of flowering evergreen shrub for partial sun is the Japanese camellia (Camellia japonica). These evergreen bushes with pink, red, or white flowers grow in part sun to full shade. 

Chinese Fringe Flower (Loropetalum chinense)

The compact Chinese fringe flower shrub has colorful foliage and deep pink flowers and tolerates full sun to partial shade

Chinese fringe flower is an evergreen bushy plant with attractive creamy-white or vibrant pinkish-red spidery flowers. The identifying features of this flowering full sun shrub are its small olive-green leaves and blossoms consisting of spindly petals. Chinese fringe flower shrubs grow 1 to 6 ft. (0.3 – 1.8 m) tall, depending on the cultivar. 

This low-maintenance landscaping shrub thrives in USDA zones 7 to 9. Therefore, the small flowering shrub is suitable for sunny central and north Florida landscapes. However, you can also grow the shrubby plant in containers and overwinter it indoors in colder climates. 

Some varieties of sun-loving Chinese fringe flowers are ornamental purple shrubs with dark purple leaves and vibrantly colored deep pink flowers. The shrub is ideally planted along a foundation line, borders, driveway, or used as a small flowering hedge.

Evergreen Abelia (Abelia floribunda)

Abelia is an attractive flowering shrub for sunny gardens that prefers wind sheltered locations

Abelia is a semi-evergreen or evergreen ornamental flowering shrub that loves being drenched in sunshine. Abelia shrubs are known for their trumpet-shaped pink flowers blooming in summer and fall. The pink tubular flowers stand out against the dark glossy foliage. 

Thriving in full sun or partial shade, abelia grows up to 12 ft. (3.6 m) tall. The drought-tolerant shrub stays evergreen in cold temperatures up to 14°F (-10°C). The best location to plant abelia shrubs is in full sun, protected from the wind and growing in well-drained soil. 

Doghobble (Leucothoe fontanesiana)

Dog hobble is an evergreen shrub with delicate white flower clusters for both full sun and shaded areas

Doghobble is a cold-hardy, evergreen shrub with large clusters of white flowers and glossy, leathery leaves. This white-blooming ornamental shrub thrives in full sun but will also tolerate full shade. The attractive features of doghobble are its dangling bunches of bell-shaped, fragrant white blossoms and showy red leaves in the fall.

Doghobble is suitable for growing in temperate climates in full sun as long as the soil is consistently moist. The flowering evergreen shrub performs best in USDA zones 4 to 6. Plenty of fall and winter sun ensures the shrub’s foliage and flowers remain vibrant. 

The decorative bushy plant grows 2 to 6 ft. (0.6 – 1.8 m) tall and up to 8 ft. (2.4 m) wide. The drooping flower clusters measure 2” to 3” (5 – 7.5 cm), and the evergreen lanceolate leaves measure 5” (12 cm) long.

Andromeda Japonica (Pieris japonica)

The pink-red young leaves of Japanese Andromeda flowering shrub turn green when they mature

Andromeda Japonica is a spreading, upright ornamental flowering shrub with glossy-green rosette-like leaves. The evergreen shrub is identified by its showy white or pink cylindrical flower clusters on red stems. Japanese andromeda blooms last for two to three weeks, and it flowers in late winter and early spring.

Also called fetterbush or lily-of-the-valley bush, the slow-growing landscaping shrub performs best with six hours of sunlight or more. The cold-hardy bushy plant is suitable for landscapes in USDA zones 4 to 8. For best results, plant the large shrub in fertile, acidic soil with good drainage. 

Plant andromeda japonica as a foundation planting, sunny border plant, or specimen plant. 

Evergreen Viburnum Shrubs

Viburnum x burkwoodii Mohawk (in the picture) is an evergreen shrub in warmer climates that is suitable for full sun or part shade

Some species of viburnum shrubs are evergreen ornamental shrubs that produce spectacular flower clusters. Viburnum flowers are umbrella-shaped clusters of tiny star-shaped white or pink blossoms. The showy white flowers contrast with the shrub’s glossy green lanceolate leaves. After blooming in summer, the shrub produces clusters of decorative berries.

Viburnum shrubs thrive in full sun. The cold hardy shrubs are suitable for planting in USDA zones 4 through 8. However, the most evergreen viburnum shrubs only keep their leaves throughout the year in zones 7 and 8. In colder zones, the shrub is a flowering deciduous landscaping plant.

Sun-loving viburnum shrubs grow between 3 to 10 ft. (1 – 3 m) tall. The ornamental white-flowering shrubs are ideal for planting as a privacy hedge, foundation planting, shrub border, or attractive specimen plant.

The varieties of semi-evergreen viburnum shrubs include burkwood viburnum (Viburnum x burkwoodii), Walter’s viburnum (Viburnum obovatum), and viburnum ‘Eskimo.’

Scarlet Firethorn (Pyracantha coccinea)

Scarlet firethorn is an evergreen shrub with white flowers and red berries for full sun to part shade

Scarlet firethorn is a thorny evergreen flowering shrub with small white flowers growing in showy corymbs. The fast-growing shrub is identified by its white flowers on red stems, stiff thorny branches, small evergreen leaves, and clusters of vibrant red berries. 

Also called scarlet pyracantha, the robust shrub grows 8 to 18 ft. (2. 4 – 5.4 m) tall and up to 20 ft. (6 m) wide. Its serrated lanceolate leaves measure 1.5” (4 cm) long, and the flower clusters are also 1.5” (4 cm) wide.

Due to its dense growth and sharp, spiny branches, scarlet firethorn is an ideal security hedge or a foundation plant for the front of house. You can also plant scarlet firethorn as an evergreen border plant or specimen plant for sunny landscapes. 

Indian Hawthorn (Rhaphiolepis indica)

Indian hawthorn is a type of evergreen flowering shrub with pink or white flowers that prefers full sun. This image shows Rhaphiolepis indica cv. ‘Ballerina’

Indian hawthorn is a pink-flowering evergreen shrub for full sun and plenty of heat. The shrub produces fragrant pale pink or pink-tinged white blossoms, dark-green leathery leaves, and ornamental black or purple berries. Indian hawthorn grows 3 to 12 ft. (1 – 3.6 m) tall and up to 6 ft. (18 m) wide.

Indian hawthorn performs best in warmer climates in USDA zones 7 to 10. The attractive pinkish-white four- or five-petalled flowers contrast with the dark green leaves. The drought- and salt-resistant bush works well in mass plantings, as a foundation plant, privacy screen, or specimen plant. 

Dwarf Chenille (Acalypha Reptans)

Dwarf chenille is a low growing evergreen flowering ground cover for full to partial sun

Dwarf chenille is a low-growing flowering evergreen shrub producing masses of deep red flowers. The spreading shrub is characterized by cylindrical crimson flower spikes growing up to 3” (7.5 cm) long. These red flowers contrast with the heart-shaped serrated leaves forming an evergreen ground-hugging mat of red and green colors.

The sun-loving, heat-tolerant evergreen shrub thrives in full or partial sun. However, the shrub only grows in the ground throughout the year in USDA zones 9 to 11. Therefore, this ground cover plant for full sun is suitable for growing in Florida gardens.

Dwarf chenille grows 1 to 2 ft. (0.3 – 0.6 m) tall and wide. The easy-to-grow landscaping plant is ideal for hot, humid climates. You can also enjoy this fabulous red-flowering shrub indoors, growing in hanging baskets or containers. 

Bottlebrush (Callistemon viminalis)

Callistemon viminalis ‘Little John’ (in the picture) is a small evergreen red flowering shrub for full sun to light shade

Bottlebrush is an attractive red-flowering evergreen shrub with dense foliage and bright red flowers resembling a bottlebrush. Apart from the spiky-looking crimson flowers, the bottlebrush’s identifying features are its small, narrow leaves and compact, rounded growth. The drought-tolerant shrub grows 5 to 6 ft. (1.5 – 1.8 m) tall and up to 5 ft. (1.5 m) wide.

The compact nature of the bottlebrush shrub makes it ideal for growing in small gardens that get full sun. Unfortunately, the ornamental bush isn’t tolerant of cold and only grows in USDA zones 10 and 11. 

Plant bottlebrush in hot, humid climates as a foundation plant, border, a low hedge, or evergreen screen. The multi-stemmed shrub also performs well in containers to add a pop of color to a sun-drenched balcony, patio, or decking area. 

Evergreen Hibiscus Shrubs (Hibiscus rosa-sinensis)

Sun-loving tropical hibiscus evergreen shrubs have flowers in a wide variety of colors

Tropical hibiscus shrubs are evergreen shrubs with spectacular trumpet-shaped colorful flowers. Evergreen hibiscus shrub flowers measure up to 6” (15 cm) across and have long protruding stamens. The eye-catching flowers contrast with the oval-shaped glossy green leaves. Tropical hibiscus grows 8 to 10 ft. (2.4 – 3 m) tall.

In frost-free areas, Hibiscus rosa-sinensis blooms continuously throughout the year. The sun-loving shrub thrives in organically rich, moist soils with good drainage. You can plant evergreen hibiscus shrubs as a flowering hedge or specimen plant in USDA zones 10 to 12.

Do you want to landscape a front or backyard with hibiscus shrubs but live in a temperate climate? In that case, you can plant deciduous hardy hibiscus shrubs for spectacular floral displays all summer long.

Oleander (Nerium oleander)

Oleanders are flowering evergreen shrubs for sun, however they are highly poisonous

Oleander is a flowering evergreen shrub that thrives in continuous sunshine. The outstanding identifying features of oleander shrubs are pink or red five-petalled funnel-shaped flowers, slender lance-shaped evergreen leaves, and a vase-shaped habit. The abundant clusters of flowers almost cover the shrub when in bloom during the summer. 

The largest oleander flowering shrub (Nerium oleander ‘Alsace’) grows 15 to 20 ft. (4.5 – 6 m) tall. However, for more compact garden landscapes, there are varieties of the evergreen shrub growing 3 to 6 ft. (1 – 1.8 m) tall. These oleander cultivars are ‘Petite Pink’ and ‘Salmon Petite.’ 

Most oleander shrubs thrive in USDA zones 9 to 12. However, the oleander cultivars ‘Hardy Pink’ and ‘Hardy Red’ perform well in growing zones 7 to 12.

It’s vital to be aware that all parts of oleander shrubs are highly poisonous. Therefore, it’s not a good idea to plant the shrubs in gardens where children or pets play. 

Cape Jasmine (Gardenia jasminoides)

The white flowers of cape jasmine bush and its evergreen foliage add beauty to sunny or partly shaded gardens

Also called gardenia, cape jasmine is a white-flowering, evergreen shrub with pure white blossoms and dark green foliage. The outstanding characteristics of cape jasmine are its fragrant star- or rose-shaped white flowers, lustrous dark-green foliage, and tiny orange berries in the fall. Cape jasmine thrives in USDA zones 7 to 11.

With their waxy white flowers and leathery leaves, cape jasmine shrubs are perfect landscape plants for sun-soaked gardens. However, it’s best to grow cape jasmine in partial sun in hotter climates to protect it from intense sunlight at midday and early afternoon.

Cape jasmine bushy plants generally grow 3 to 4 ft. (1 – 1.2 m) tall. However, there are dwarf varieties of the flowering shrub growing 2 to 3 ft. (0.6 – 1 m) tall. Plant the shrubs to create evergreen hedges for a backyard, foundation planting, or specimen plant to attract pollinators. 

Sun-Loving Rhododendron Shrubs

Evergreen flowering rhododendrons are excellent choices for full sun or partial shade

Rhododendron shrubs are showy, evergreen vigorous spring-blooming shrubs with spectacular floral displays. Broadleaf evergreen rhododendrons are known for their large clusters of pink, red, white, and purple bell-shaped or funnel flowers. Additionally, glossy olive-green leathery leaves remain on the large shrubs throughout the year.

Depending on the cultivar, rhododendron shrubs grow 4 to 6 ft. (1.2 – 1.8 m) high. The sun-loving evergreen shrubs bloom in spring, covering the mounded shrub with spectacular flowers. 

Species of evergreen rhododendron are suitable for growing in most USDA zones. In addition, some cold-hardy varieties of rhododendron stay green even in zone 4. 

Rhododendrons are ideal evergreen shrubs for planting in borders, along driveways, flowering hedges, or a dense privacy screen.

Azaleas are a subspecies of rhododendron and thrive in full sun and partial sun. Compared to rhododendron, azalea shrubs for full sun have smaller leaves and flowers. However, they create just as spectacular floral displays as larger rhododendrons. 

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A pond or fountain will help increase the overall humidity in an open area. When placing the pond in the sun, count on the fact that you will have to control its overgrowth - aquatic plants will develop especially intensively. Creating artificial water movement will help solve this problem. For a fountain, a sunny spot is the best position. Light and water jets will decorate the space with moving highlights, and the smallest drops will increase humidity. But when placing plants, be aware of the drift of water by the wind - arrange flower beds so that water does not moisten the leaves.

Petriv Landscape Designe

2. In sunny areas, snow melts earlier in spring. This may seem like an advantage, but it actually poses a danger to the plants. They are exposed ahead of time and lose their snow protection at a time when the air temperature is still low and there is a threat of frost. In such places, many plants will need additional protection. However, there is a risk here too: shelters in a sunny place get very warm and the plants can dry out. In such cases, it is especially important to regulate the temperature under the shelters by ventilation, that is, spring worries are added.

Jeffrey Gordon Smith Landscape Architecture

3. The significant contrast between day and night temperatures also poses a threat. In a sunny place, it is especially sharp. And it's not just about early spring. In our far from southern regions, the period of cold nights lasts as early as early June and returns as early as August. Many thermophilic plants suffer from such a temperature contrast. In addition to choosing zoned varieties, placing flower beds near walls that accumulate heat and then give it away will help. Large stones will also help with this: rockery is a good choice for a sunny flower garden.

ETs Ekopochva-LD

4. Due to temperature contrasts, spring protection against burns should be taken especially seriously. Conifers in open areas suffer greatly from the active sun, combined with still low temperatures.

Avant Garden

5. Many thermophilic species are afraid of drafts. Cold winds are detrimental to them. Therefore, a sunny flower garden should be protected from the wind. This will help placing it under the cover of walls or arrays of shrubs. Protecting the entire area with hedges also helps.

Kingfisher Landscape

Tip: To expand your planting options for a sunny flower garden, consider protecting species that like good light but suffer from overheating during the midday hours. Plant them under cover of tall sun-loving plant species - on their northern side. They will shade the neighbors during the hottest hours.

Anderson Lawn Care

With these risks and protective measures in place, a sunny location allows for a bright and lush flower garden with a long flowering period. Many sun-loving plants for the garden - perennial and annual flowers, shrubs and others - look very unusual and even exotic. And the range of species suitable for active sun is quite wide. To create a memorable and harmonious composition in a sunny place, you can use one of several scenarios that are different in their imagery.

Arteza Company

Maki-Luki Landscape Bureau

1. Rosary
An open sunny place is necessary for growing roses. In order for plants to be healthy and bloom intensively (after all, this is why we love roses), they need enough light and good nutrition. No matter what forms and varieties we are talking about, a sunny location will be optimal. However, when creating a rose garden in our latitudes, you will have to remember all the safety measures that I have listed: winter shelter, sufficient humidity and protection from the wind. If you supplement them with the basic requirements of agricultural technology - nutritious soil, respect for planting distances and proper pruning, then the rose garden in a sunny area will be able to show all its beauty.

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Kate GULD GARDENS

2 Mediterranean SAD

the plot is a good opportunity to create a Mediterranean-style garden with bright colors and southern relaxation. Sun-loving plants typical of the Mediterranean do not hibernate here - they can be used in an annual crop. Here you have a choice of popular flowering annuals, seedlings of which you can easily find in spring in garden centers: petunia (Petunia), sutera (Sutera), ampelous lobelia (Lobelia), pelargonium (Pelargonium), balsams (Impatiens) and others. Some southern sun-loving flowers for the garden grow with us as indoor ones - you can simply take them outside for the summer (do not forget that this should be done gradually, having endured the hardening period). Azalea (Azalea), bougainvillea (Bougainvillea), begonia (Begonia) will decorate the flower garden in summer and return indoors in winter. Other species can be replaced by plants adapted to our climate, which, meanwhile, bear a completely southern imagery. To create a Mediterranean mood, use sea buckthorn (Hippophae), willow (Salix) and silver goof (Elaeagnus argentea).

Matthew Cunningham Landscape Design LLC

Flowers include mallows (Alcea), daylilies (Hemerocallis), onions (Allium), verbenas (Verbena), clematis (Clematis), climbing honeysuckles (Lonicera). Sage (Salvia), hyssop (Hyssopus), veronica (Veronica), catnip (Nepeta), oregano (Origanum), Perovskia (Perowskia), lobelia - brilliant (Lobelia fulgens), sessile (Lobelia sesilifolia) and blue (Lobelia siphilitica) will complete the picture. ). They, in combination with silvery, as if dusted plants, will create a special atmosphere in the gardens of Provence.

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Perfectly fits into the Mediterranean imagery and balances the moisture of a fountain or wall cascade. For decoration and decoration in such a landscape, use terracotta, mosaics and natural stone.

Debra Lee Baldwin

3. Exotic Garden
In a hot, sunny place, you can create a real collection of exotic plants - in an annual crop or in a pot. Canna, kniphofia, bougainvillea, fuchsia, hibiscus will add southern luxury to the landscape and become spectacular accents. Many natives of the south with a rhizome that does not winter in the ground have not been exotic for us for a long time, but they will completely complement their company: do not forget about such sun-loving flowers for the garden as gladioli (Gladiolus), dahlias (Dahlia), amaranths (Amaranthus). Supplement them with flowering annuals: already familiar begonias (Begonia) and balsams (Impatiens), petunias (Petunia), pelargoniums (Pelargonium) and others.

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4. Village or meadow flower garden
Such a flower garden is a splash of bright colors and multicolor. A sunny position will only enhance the riot of flowering. It’s good if it blooms throughout the warm season - choose plants for the flower bed that replace each other. The range of suitable species is very wide and allows you to change both the color scheme and the image of the flower garden.

Jocelyn H. Chilvers

Sun-loving perennial flowers: mallows (Alcea), lupins (Lupunus), delphinium (Delphinium), foxglove (Digitalis), ornamental onions (Allium), yarrow (Achillea), barkwort (Knautia), cornflower (Centaurea), flax (Linum ), bluebell (Campanula), kosmos (Cosmos), echinacea (Echinacea), rudbeckia (Rudbeckia), gaillardia (Gaillardia), marigolds (Tagetes), nivyanik (Laucenthemum).

The names of some speak for themselves: sunflower (Helianthus), helenium (Helenium), heliopsis (Heliopsis), helianthemum (Helianthemum), helichrysum (Helichrysum) - they all have the sun in their name and prefer to grow in its rays.

Karena Batstone Design

5. Grass garden
Grasses are true lovers of the sun. Only a few of them are ready to put up with penumbra. Most tolerate dryness well and are undemanding to watering. Therefore, an open sunny area is a great opportunity to create a composition of cereals. In terms of expressiveness, it is not inferior to a bright flower garden. The variety of species allows you to select a variety of color combinations. Moreover, the cereal garden retains its decorative effect all year round, decorating the site even in winter. And how beautiful are the cereals, illuminated by the morning or evening sun! Even if you are not ready to use only cereals, they will be a great addition to other sunny compositions.

Dig Your Garden Landscape Design

6. Arid desert composition
In an open arid place, you can create an unusual garden, as if transferred from the desert or from a rocky mountain slope. Use succulents for this. In their fleshy leaves, they are able to accumulate moisture, and therefore are completely undemanding to watering and soil. Despite the fact that many of them feel great in our latitudes and have long earned popularity, they still look exotic.

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Succulents - types, names and rules of care ) have many forms. They differ in size - from miniature plants spread on the ground to large bushy specimens that can act as tapeworms. The different shape of the leaves and the shade of flowering allows you to create a wide variety of compositions from them. Thanks to their undemanding nature and shallow root system, they are suitable for rockeries, roof gardens and planters.

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GREEN LANDS garden company

Plant pines (Pinus), junipers (Juniperus), arborvitae (Thuia), larches (Larix), microbiota (Microbiota). When creating a coniferous composition in an open area, combine plants with different crown shapes: narrow verticals and tall conical varieties will become accents, plant outstretched forms in their roots, complementing the composition with spherical and ovoid plants. However, when creating a coniferous garden in the sun, remember about spring protection - these plants are especially susceptible to burns with spring temperature differences and active sun.

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Unique by Design

It is in the sun that they fully reveal their varietal properties, while in the shade, many of them (especially yellow and variegated forms) lose their unusual pattern. There are many decorative leaf varieties both among shrubs and among herbaceous plants. A large number of decorative forms are famous for garden shrubs such as barberry (Berberis), spirea (Spiraea), white derain (Cornus alba), viburnum vesicle (Physocarpus opulifolius). Among the herbs, the multi-colored color of the leaves is distinguished by the lamb (Lamium), perilla (Perilla), hybrid coleus (Solenostemon scutellarioides), loosestrife (Lysimachia punctata), tenacious (Ajuga).

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The most beautiful plants for a garden with ornamental foliage - types and care - aquatic plants in this position will develop especially intensively. But it is the solar pond that is suitable for growing beautiful nymphs (Nymphaea). Due to the variety of shapes and colors, water lilies or water lilies are not in vain considered favorites among aquatic plants. In a sunny place, you can collect a whole collection of these beautiful flowers. Other flowering aquatic species will also thrive in full sun and provide a wonderful backdrop for the vibrant nymphaeum flowers.

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Bliss Garden Design, LLC

Premier Green Landscaping

10. Aromatic garden
The bright sun is an ideal condition for creating aroma space . Many aromatic plants are native to the southern regions and require an open location. Here their growth is especially intense, and the aroma is revealed to the maximum. Most of the spice plants are grown as an annual crop and a significant part of them are used as food. An excellent solution for them would be a container garden or mobile flower beds near the summer dining or recreation area. Plant lavender (Lavandula), sage (Salvia), thyme (Thymus), hyssop (Hyssopus), basil (Ocimum), coriander (Coriandrum) and others for decoration and fragrance.

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Karena Batstone Design

YOUR TURN…
YOUR TURN…

Do you use them to create southern compositions or do you leave them for growing vegetables? Show us sun-loving plants - flowers and shrubs, - growing in your garden. Post your photos in the comments section.

TOP-22 Ornamental Shrubs for Dacha

Do you need ornamental shrubs for summer cottages? Of course yes! After all, with their help it is possible to create a holistic landscape composition, they help to zone the surrounding space, fill voids, and hide unsightly parts of the garden.

How to choose the right bush?

Choosing the right landing site is one of the most important things

A variety of types, sizes and shapes of shrubs allows you to choose a plant for any garden plot, depending on personal preferences, front garden style and financial capabilities. But in order for cultures to grow for a long time and please with an attractive look, the selection criteria are slightly different. The most important point to consider when choosing ornamental shrubs is the characteristics of the landing site:

  • light level
  • soil type
  • plot size
Read also: Landscaping your site with your own hands - (130+ Photo Ideas & Videos) + Reviews

Soil type

For each type of plant, there are a number of recommendations for growing, adhering to which it is possible to grow a healthy and highly decorative crop. One of the main points is the selection of shrubs depending on the type of soil.

Clay soil

Sandy soil is characterized by high acidity, dryness and almost complete lack of nutrients. In summer it dries out quickly, and in winter it freezes. For such conditions, it is difficult to choose shrubs. For example, spirea, elderberry, hydrangea, rhododendron, sea buckthorn can grow in sandy soil.

Another place not quite suitable for growing a large number of ornamental plants is a wet garden . Aronia, spirea, wild rosemary and several types of fruit bushes are a small list of what can grow in such open spaces.

For clay soils it is much easier to select plants. Although such soil is heavy, but fertile, it has a good ability to retain moisture and nutrients. Therefore, almost all types of ornamental shrubs are suitable for areas with clay soil.

Read also: Vesicle: types, description of 18 popular varieties, planting and care (80+ Photos & Videos) + Reviews

Degree of illumination and area dimensions

When choosing plants for the garden, it is very important to take into account the peculiarities of the climatic zone. Most shrubs grow equally well in full sun or partial shade. But there are cultures that do not tolerate lighted areas and need shade. Therefore, first you need to observe the landing site: how much sun hits it during the day, is there a shadow there and what kind is it.

Some shrubs thrive in full sun

It is also necessary to select crops depending on the size of the planting site. For example, when choosing magnolia, one should take into account that it can rise to a height of 1 to 6-8 meters and spread up to two to five meters wide. Therefore, only one such shrub can be planted in small gardens.

In addition to large plants, there are the most compact varieties that are distinguished by a non-spreading dense crown (for example, columnar juniper). Therefore, before proceeding with the improvement of the territory, familiarize yourself with the description of the selected crops and take into account the degree of their growth.

Read also: TOP 55 Blue flowers and plants for your home and garden. Indoor and outdoor, perennial and annual (85+ Photos & Video) + Reviews

Beautiful flowering shrubs

Beautiful flowering shrubs are the most popular among gardeners. During the flowering period, they delight with incredible beauty, bright colors and amazing aromas.

Beautiful flowering shrubs in landscape design

They are suitable for single plantings against a lawn or various landscape compositions. For example, a flower bed design with a combination of undersized and large varieties of the same plant species is widespread.

Here are some descriptions of some of the most popular types of flowering seedlings that are great for growing in the Moscow region and central Russia.

Park roses

Park Roses

Features: Shrubs look amazing when in bloom. At this time, terry flowers of various shades bloom on them: red, pink, white, orange. Throughout the flowering, which, depending on the variety, falls at the end of May - the beginning of June and lasts one month, a delicate enchanting aroma comes from the inflorescences.

Agrotechnics of cultivation: Park varieties of roses belong to undemanding varieties and are suitable for cultivation even for novice gardeners. It is better to plant them on moderately moist loamy soils. The place is chosen well-lit. When group planting between plants, a distance of up to 1.5 meters from each other should be kept.

Caring for park roses consists of regular watering during dry seasons and a small annual formative pruning. Young plants for the winter are recommended to spud and lightly cover.

Garden jasmine (mock orange)

Garden jasmine (mock orange)

Decorative features: Shrub up to three meters high consists of thin twigs densely covered with carved leaves. Depending on the variety, they can be rich green, golden or variegated. Flowers delight the eye from early June to late summer. Throughout the flowering period, they exude a pleasant jasmine aroma.

Cultivation technique: Among the wide variety of varieties, preference should be given to plants of domestic selection. Because they are guaranteed to endure the local climate.

It is recommended to plant garden jasmine in open sunny areas or light partial shade. The plant is not very demanding on the soil. Needs top dressing during planting and after flowering.

Shrubs should be pruned immediately after flowering. Only weak branches are removed. On strong ones, lateral young shoots should appear in autumn.

Rhododendron

Rhododendron

Decorative features: The culture pleases with abundant flowering from mid-April. The flowers are terry, mostly pink-lilac in color. Rare varieties with orange, red and yellow inflorescences.

Flowers densely cover the shrub, resulting in dark green leaves almost invisible. The height of an adult plant varies from 30 cm to 4-5 meters.

Cultivation technique: For planting in the gardens of central Russia, gardeners recommend choosing deciduous varieties of rhododendron. They are highly frost resistant.

The landing site is selected partially shaded and protected from drafts. Then the culture blooms more abundantly. The soil suitable for shrubs is light, well-drained, fertilized with humus. During the dry season, the plant needs additional watering.

Lilac

Lilac

Decorative features: One of the most common shrubs found in almost every front garden.

The crop blooms profusely from early May to June. Small funnel-shaped flowers are collected in paniculate inflorescences. The color of lilac is mostly represented by white and different shades of lilac and purple: lilac, lilac-blue, dark purple and so on.

The aroma of inflorescences is very gentle, subtle. The lilac bush is abundantly covered with rich green foliage, which is located oppositely on the branches. Keeps green mass until late autumn.

Agrotechnics of cultivation: The plant is unpretentious, frost-resistant. Grows well in all types of soil with proper preparation. For example, it will not be superfluous to add lime to sandy soil. The best site for planting lilacs will be sunny or partially shaded.

Only young plants should be watered. Adult bushes need soil moisture only during periods of prolonged drought.

For annual abundant flowering, lilacs must be subjected to sanitary pruning. In early spring, when buds form on the branches and flowering branches are already visible, about 10-15 strong shoots should be separated on the bush, and the rest should be cut off.

Spirea

Spirea

Decorative features: Spirea is divided into two main types: spring and summer blooming. The first is distinguished by numerous snow-white flowers that bloom in May. Summer-flowering spirea is abundantly covered with pink inflorescences in July.

The height of the shrubs depends on the variety and varies from 50-70 cm to 2.5 meters. The diameter of specimens can reach up to one and a half meters.

Agrotechnics of cultivation: The culture is unpretentious, frost-resistant, practically not exposed to diseases. Grows well in sunny and semi-shaded areas. Plant care consists only in periodic formative pruning and removal of faded inflorescences.

Buddley

Buddleya

Decorative features: The height of the shrub can reach up to three meters. The branches of the culture are drooping, densely covered with small green leaves.

Pink flowers bloom from May to late summer. They are collected in spherical or paniculate inflorescences. The color of the petals is different: snow-white, lilac, hot pink, yellow-orange.

Growing practices: Budley grows best in sunny areas protected from strong winds and drafts. The soil suitable for the plant is moist, nutritious, fertile, drained.

The main care consists of annual sanitary pruning and removal of rusty branches. To stimulate growth, mineral fertilizers are recommended.

The plant is thermophilic, but tolerates wintering well with proper preparation. With the onset of cold weather, the shrub should be hilled and covered in such a way as to protect the branches, but not create a greenhouse effect for the root system.

Hydrangea

Hydrangea

Decorative features: The shrub grows rapidly and reaches a height of up to two meters. Therefore, for a greater decorative effect, it is recommended to subject it to formative pruning.

Hydrangea blooms from August to September. Small flowers are collected in large corymbose inflorescences. They can be flat, spherical, hemispherical or pyramidal.

Different colors of flowers. Most varieties are represented by light shades: white, cream, greenish, lilac and pink inflorescences.

Agrotechnics of cultivation: The plant is unpretentious and perfectly suits inexperienced gardeners. Grows best in nutrient-dense soil in well-lit or partially shaded areas. It responds well to fertilizing containing iron and magnesium.

Annual pruning is necessary to keep hydrangea bushes healthy and blooming profusely.

Weigela

Weigela

Decorative features: The shrub can grow up to two meters in height. The plant blooms with bright pink or yellow flowers in the form of bells in the month of May. Flowering continues until the end of July.

Among the variety of varieties there are not only beautiful flowering, but also decorative and deciduous. For example, weigela "Nana Purpurea" is distinguished by red-brown foliage, and "Nana Variegata" - leaves with a golden border.

Growing technique: The plant is unpretentious, therefore it is excellent not only for experienced gardeners. Almost any soil is suitable for cultivation. You can choose a sunny or semi-shaded location.

Weigele requires minimal maintenance. The culture does not need regular abundant watering; top dressing should be applied only when absolutely necessary (for example, with poor soils). The plant tolerates pruning very well. In winters with little snow, shrubs are recommended to cover.

Magnolia

Magnolia

Decorative features: Most varieties rarely exceed one meter in height. But there are also very large specimens.

Magnolia retains its decorative appearance throughout the year. The foliage of the plant remains on the branches for several years. In the warm season, it is light green, and with the onset of cold weather - copper.

The shrub reaches its greatest attractiveness during flowering. From late April to May, large flowers of white, ruby, light pink, rich lilac and even yellow color bloom on the branches. With proper care, the culture will thank the gardener with repeated flowering in mid-June.

Growing practices: Magnolia should be planted in a bright or slightly shaded area, away from drafts. This is a heat-loving, but frost-resistant plant. Prefers moderately moist, nutritious, breathable and slightly acidic soil.

The root system of the shrub is quite close to the surface. To protect it, it is recommended to plant ground cover plants around. Magnolia care consists in spring fertilizing with organic fertilizers. Pruning culture is not needed.

Forsythia

Forsythia

Decorative features: Bright yellow flowers with oblong petals bloom on the branches before the leaves appear. They delight the eye in early spring for from two weeks to one month. Intense green foliage appears in early May. With the onset of autumn, they turn red.

Growing techniques: Forsythia is planted in well-lit areas, protected from the winds. The soil should not be waterlogged. Light fertile soil is best suited for planting.

The culture is thermophilic, not particularly resistant to frost. Therefore, for the winter it should be covered a little.

Read also: Spirea: description of 12 popular species, planting in the open field, care, features for different climatic zones including Siberia (80+ Photos & Videos) + Reviews

Deciduous ornamental shrubs

Japanese maple in landscaping

The main feature of such plants is that they do not lose their decorative effect throughout the summer period and even with the advent of autumn they retain an attractive foliage color. Decorative deciduous shrubs are used for single plantings, creating various compositions with perennials and for creating hedges.

Barberry Thunberg

Thunberg barberry

Decorative features: Strong barberry branches are densely covered with small leaves of emerald green, red or yellow hue. There is even a variety that takes on a rich purple-blue shade of foliage in sunny areas. The height of the shrub varies from 40 cm to 3 meters.

Agrotechnics of cultivation: The perennial is unpretentious, frost- and drought-resistant, tolerates shearing well. Planting Thunberg barberry is recommended in sunny areas, but the shrub tolerates partial shade well. It is also important that the area with the culture is protected from the winds.

Barberries need soils that are not acidic, without signs of waterlogging. Additional watering the plant is not required.

Common hazel

Common hazel

Decorative features: Shrubs reach an average height of three meters. Shoots are powerful, brown with transverse stripes.

The leaflets are rather large, with serrated margins. In late summer - early autumn, they acquire a bright red color.

Growing techniques: Hazel is planted at a distance of up to 4 meters from each other. A place for culture is suitable for well-lit, but without direct sunlight, protected from drafts. Perennial soils prefer fertile, non-acidic, loose.

Care consists of maintaining moderate soil moisture, removing weeds and loosening the soil. From time to time, it is recommended to perform anti-aging pruning of branches.

Holly mahonia

Holly mahonia

Decorative features: Holly mahonia leaves are very leathery, shiny, with small needle-thorns along carved edges. In summer, they are rich green, and with the advent of winter, they acquire a brownish-purple, almost dark purple color.

Growing techniques: Magonia is recommended to be planted in slightly acidic fertile soil. Poor soil is also suitable for the plant, only then top dressing should be applied from time to time.

The shrub shows its greatest decorative effect in sunny or slightly shaded areas.

The crop is drought tolerant. Additional moderate watering is needed only during times of severe drought. It will not be superfluous to occasionally loosen the soil around the mahonia trunk. So that the shrub does not grow much and is distinguished by a dense dense crown, pruning should be carried out after flowering or in late autumn.

Japanese Maple

Japanese maple

Decorative features: The Japanese maple averages two meters in height. The crown is voluminous.

The shape of the leaves resembles a fan or reduced palm leaves. They are bright green at first but take on a rich red-orange hue towards the end of summer, turning bright red by October. In the Atropurpureum variety, the autumn color of the leaves is dark red, almost black.

Growing practices: The Japanese maple needs a well lit area, but protected from direct sunlight. The plant does not like drafts, so it is best to place it near the fence, building or behind tall plantations. Watering the shrub needs moderate, in drought it should be regular.

Japanese maples grow quite slowly, so they don't need much pruning. It is needed only as a crown formation.

loch

Loch

Decorative features: Two types of plants are used for growing in gardens: narrow-leaved goof and silver goof. The first variety is used mainly in Mediterranean-type gardens, because from a distance it resembles an olive. The leaves are narrow, covered with gray scales.

Silver goof attracts gardeners with numerous narrow silver leaves. The crown of the narrow-leaved sucker spreads up to two to three meters wide.

Agrotechnics of cultivation: The perennial is photophilous, drought-resistant, rather winter-hardy. It grows best in well-lit areas with nutritious soil, protected from strong winds.

Care of the crop consists of annual fertilization and loosening of the soil around the trunk. Haircut is performed at will at the beginning and end of summer.

Read also: Perennial flowers (TOP 50 species): garden catalog for giving with photos and names | Video + Reviews

Hedge shrubs

Boxwood fence

Shrubs of this group have in common that they grow quickly, have a dense crown and tolerate shearing well. Due to these qualities, the presented plants are widely used for creating hedges and for zoning a garden plot.

Boxwood

Boxwood

Decorative features: A perennial with numerous shoots with small shiny leaves. Depending on the variety, the plant can reach a height of up to three meters. There are also dwarf species.

Boxwood leaves are opposite, leathery, round or elliptical. They are painted with a rich green color.

Growing practices: Planting sites are chosen semi-shaded or fully shaded. From direct sunlight, the shrub loses its decorative effect. The soil should be clay, moist, drained.

This is one of the most popular hedge varieties. It allows you to create any garden forms. It is recommended to cut bushes every sixth week.
For normal development, the plant needs organic or complex top dressing. They should be applied during intensive growth.

Vesicle

Vesicle

Decorative features: Shrub varieties are divided into red-leaved and yellow-leaved. For example, the foliage of the vesicle "Diablo" is painted in a dark red hue, and "Darts Gold" is yellow-fiery.

In spring, all varieties are lighter in color. In autumn, the leaves become more saturated and dark.

Growing technique: For a more decorative plant, it is necessary to provide as much sun as possible. In the shade, the color of the foliage often darkens. Therefore, it is recommended to plant it in well-lit areas.

The plant is not capricious, feels good on loose, moderately moist soil. The culture is frost-resistant. Needs annual sanitary pruning. When planted closely, it can be affected by powdery mildew.

Dogwood

Dogwood

Decorative features: Dogwood bushes usually do not exceed 2.5 meters in height. They are distinguished by shiny red-orange hanging shoots that root easily once they reach the soil.

Milky white flowers gather in inflorescences up to 5 cm in diameter. Buds open in May and delight the eye for two weeks. Dogwood leaves in the center are dark green, and along the edge are decorated with a yellow-green border. In autumn, they acquire a rich burgundy hue.

Growing practices: Dogwood grows well in lime-rich soils. The landing site is chosen well-lit, without close occurrence of groundwater. The plant tolerates frost well. But young seedlings in the first years of life need winter shelter.

For the greatest decorative effect, the shrub needs to be watered from time to time. The soil around should be weeded and loosened.

Turn

Turn

Decorative features: Fast growing shrubs that will fully develop in two years. The branches are numerous, dense, densely covered with thorns. The leaves are dark green, glossy.

In late summer - early autumn, dark blue fruits appear on the perennial, which can even be eaten.

Agrotechnics of cultivation: The plant is winter-hardy, unpretentious. Needs constant shaping pruning. To achieve a lasting effect, it is recommended to remove not only the tops of the shoots, but also thin out the roots.

Any plot suitable for growing thorns, except for waterlogged ones. The shrub grows equally well in the sun and in the shade.

Read also: Boxwood: description, types and varieties, planting in the open field and caring for shrubs, use in landscape design (85+ Photos & Videos) + Reviews

Evergreen shrubs

Landscape juniper

These are shrubs that do not shed their foliage with the advent of cold weather and even decorate the garden in winter. The most common in home gardens in Russia are juniper, arborvitae, honeysuckle.

Use them for different purposes:

  • for hedges
  • for single plantings against the background of the lawn, near gazebos and other objects in the area
  • for complex landscaping

Honeysuckle

Honeysuckle

Decorative features: A shrub up to two meters high is distinguished by small leathery oval leaves. Young shoots and greens have a bluish tint. By mid-summer, small flowers of a yellowish, pink, orange or white hue bloom on the shrub. From them comes a delicate pleasant aroma.

Agrotechnics of cultivation: The plant is unpretentious and well endures even severe winters. Light penumbra is considered an ideal place for planting honeysuckle.

Juniper

Juniper

Decorative features: There are a large number of juniper varieties that differ from each other in the shape of the bush (in the form of a neat candle, horizontal, ground cover, and so on) and the color of the needles. The needles are short and sharp. They can be emerald green or bluish blue.

Growing technique: It is recommended to plant shrubs at a distance of 60-80 cm from each other in well-lit or partially shaded areas. The soil should contain peat, sand, loam. Plant care consists in sheltering needles to protect them from burning out in early spring and tying high varieties for the winter.

Thuja

Thuja

Decorative features: Thuja needles consist of scales tightly adjoining each other. In young plants, it is soft, pale green. Mature shrubs have dark green needles.

Growing techniques: Thuja should be planted in partially shaded areas, protected from the winds. For high decorativeness, the shrub needs regular watering. The plant does not differ in winter hardiness, therefore, with the onset of cold weather, a special fabric cover must be worn on the crown.

Thuja responds well to pruning. If you perform it often and strongly, the plant will become very lush and thick.

As you can see, many ornamental shrubs do not need painstaking care and grow well in almost any conditions, decorating the site. By combining different types and varieties, you can create a beautiful garden where it will be pleasant to relax after a working week.