Evergreen large shrubs
25 tall evergreen shrubs for your landscape
Tall evergreen shrubs give structure and privacy to our landscapes. Use these stately shrubs as sentinels at the end of your driveway or on either end of a wide porch. Planted in a line, a lush wall of dense greenery can give you year-round privacy or hide an unsightly adjacent property. Here are 25 of the best tall evergreen shrubs to consider for your yard.
1. Leyland Cypress
2. Green Giant Arborvitae
3. Spartan Juniper
4. Hicks Yew
5. Emerald Green Arborvitae
6. Moonglow Juniper
7. Nellie Stevens Holly
8. Prague Viburnum
9. Victory Pyracantha
10. Hollywood Juniper
11. Cherry Laurel
12. Blue Princess Holly
13. Rosebay Rhododendron
14. Stonehenge Yew
15. Debutante Camellia
16. Hinoki Cypress
17. Wax Myrtle
18. Allegheny Viburnum
19. Sky Pencil Holly
20. Victory Pyracantha
21. Emerald Fountain Canadian Hemlock
22. California Privet
23. Fragrant Tea Olive
24. American Holly
FAQs
What are the best fast-growing tall evergreen shrubs?
What are the best tall evergreen shrubs for full sun?
What are the best tall evergreen shrubs for shady areas?
Resources
References
More landscaping shrubs
1. Leyland Cypress
Leyland Cypress (Cupressus × leylandii) is the ultimate tall evergreen shrub. This giant absolutely towers over other shrubs.Leyland Cypress trees have an annual growth rate of 3-4 feet/year and generally mature at a size of 60-70 feet tall and 15-20 feet wide.
Leyland Cypress plants are fast-growing evergreen trees that block out views or noise, making them excellent for large properties. With a rapid growth rate and tall mature height, this tree is ideal for perimeter planting. Leyland Cypresses are also tolerant of shearing, so they can be easily shaped into a more polished look if you desire.
The best location to plant this tree is in full sun, but it can also grow in partial shade. Keep in mind, though, that growth will be slower without direct sunlight. These trees aren’t great for windy areas or places where ice builds up on branches because they have long limbs that can snap under the weight. If you’re looking for a similar option that’s more resistant to those harsh conditions, try Green Giant Arborvitae.
2. Green Giant Arborvitae
Green Giant Arborvitae (Thuja standishii x plicata ‘Green Giant’) is another very tall evergreen that’s popular for good reason! This extra-large hybrid arborvitae reaches its mature size of 40-50 feet tall and 8-12 feet wide. ‘Green Giant’ shrubs can grow 2-3 feet higher each year until they reach full height.
‘Green Giant’ is mostly for privacy screens, large hedges, or accent pieces. They grow quickly but should only be planted if there’s enough room for them to reach 30 feet at maturity. If you don’t want to trim them multiple times a year, choose ‘Emerald Green’ for a smaller alternative, as they grow to about half the height.
Arborvitae grows best in full sun with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight but can also survive in partial shade though the growth will be significantly slower.
The Green Giant Arborvitae thrives in areas ranging from Zone 5 to 8 according to the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map. If you live in a region that experiences harsh winters, then this is the plant for you as it can resist both heavy snowfall and high winds.
3. Spartan Juniper
Spartan Juniper (Juniperus chinensis ‘Spartan’) is a popular coniferous evergreen. These plants reach a mature size of 15-18 feet tall and 4-5 feet wide. They are a little slower growing than Leyland Cypress or Green Giant Arborvitae, but they have the important benefit of being deer resistant. And they still put on 12-18 inches of height per year in good conditions.
These tall, tidy shrubs are most commonly used as privacy screens, foundation plants, or medium-tall hedges. The dense foliage provides year-round screening and can withstand heavy shearing if needed.
Spartan Junipers grow best in full sun but can get by with partial shade. If you want them to reach their potential growth-wise, however, don’t plant them in full shade. For optimal growth, add some organic matter to the soil before planting and then keep them well hydrated for the first 1-2 years after they’re planted.
Spartan Junipers can be grown in Zones 4-9.
4. Hicks Yew
Hicks Yew (Taxus x media ‘Hicksii’) is a dark green needled shrub often used for hedges or privacy screens. These shrubs grow more slowly than Arborvitae or Juniper but still put on a respectable 6-10 inches per year (depending upon conditions). Mature Hicks Yew can reach 10-15 feet tall and 3-6 feet wide.
‘Hicks’ is most commonly used as a barrier planting. Yew is particularly good at filling in dense foliage on bare limbs, making it somewhat self-healing. So while they don’t grow in height as fast as arborvitae, they may be a better long-term choice. These plants can also be sheared into topiary shapes.
Hicks Yew is tolerant of a wide range of sun exposure, from sunny all day to partial shade. It can be grown in Zones 4-8.
5. Emerald Green Arborvitae
Emerald Green Arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis ‘Emerald Green’) is an evergreen conifer with dense, lush green foliage. This variety of Arborvitae reaches a mature size of about 10-15 feet tall and 3-4 feet wide.
Emerald Green is mostly used as a perimeter plant because it forms thick hedges. Perfect for privacy screens in locations with little space, these shrubs can grow 1-2 feet taller each year in optimal conditions. They’re also good for topiary and can stay alive in containers for years if necessary.
Emerald Green Arborvitae grows best when it gets at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. Those grown in partial sun or shade don’t grow as well. For optimal growth, the plant needs moist soil too.
Emerald Green Arborvitae can be grown in Zones 4-8.
6. Moonglow Juniper
Moonglow Juniper (Juniperus scopulorum ‘Moonglow’) is a tall evergreen shrub with attractive silvery-green foliage. With a growth rate of about 2 feet in height each year, these popular plants reach a mature size of 18-20 feet tall and 6-8 feet wide.
‘Moonglow’ is mostly used as a hedging plant or for privacy screens because of its natural pyramidal form. They require little upkeep unless they are trimmed regularly into a formal hedge. Another great reason to have junipers on your property is that they serve as fantastic habitats for local wildlife and songbirds!
Moonglow Juniper grows best in full sun and is not tolerant of shady conditions. This plant is very cold-hardy and can be grown in Zones 3-7.
7. Nellie Stevens Holly
Nellie Stevens Holly (Ilex x ‘Nellie Stevens’) is a hybrid holly that is prized for its dense, glossy green foliage. Nellie Stevens Holly reaches a mature size of 15-25 feet tall and 8-15 feet wide, with a quick growth rate of about 2-3 feet/year in good conditions.
You can prune this holly cultivar into a privacy hedge or fenceline or leave it unpruned for a more natural look. Because of its fast growth rate and dense foliage, Nellie Stevens is one of the best options for privacy screens. It’s also deer resistant, which is an added bonus if you live in an area with a lot of wildlife.
Nellie Stevens Holly grows best in full sun but tolerates some shade. These shrubs are hardy in Zones 6-9.
8. Prague Viburnum
Prague Viburnum (Viburnum x pragense) is a hybrid cross between two other Viburnum species. These medium-sized shrubs typically reach 8-10 feet tall and 6-8 feet wide at maturity.
If you’re searching for a plant that can serve as either a hedge or an accent, look no further than the beautiful evergreen. In addition to providing gorgeous green leaves year-round, this Midwestern winter-hardy shrub also boasts lovely pink buds that turn into fragrant cream flowers come springtime.
Prague Viburnums can grow rapidly, adding about 2 feet of new growth each year. Viburnum grows most rapidly in full sun but are tolerant of partially shady conditions. Prague Viburnums can be grown in Zones 5-8.
9. Victory Pyracantha
Victory Pyracantha (Pyracantha koidzumii ‘Victory’) is a fast-growing flowering shrub known for its thorny stems and brightly colored red berries. It reaches a mature size of 8-10 feet tall and 6-8 feet wide at maturity.
In large spaces, Pyracantha is often used as a thorny barrier planting, such as a hedge, windbreak, or privacy screen. The species is also popular in wildlife gardens due to the attractiveness of the berries with the birds. In smaller sites, this plant can be grown up against a wall or fence and trained along the surface rather than left to develop naturally into a rounded bushy form.
Victory Pyracantha grows about a foot per year and is best planted in sunny spots where the leaves can get enough bright sunlight for photosynthesis to create energy to produce berries. This plant thrives in Zones 7-9, and is most popular in coastal regions.
10. Hollywood Juniper
Hollywood Juniper (Juniperus chinensis ‘Torulosa’) is a tall coniferous shrub with unique twisted foliage. These fast-growing shrubs reach a mature size of about 15 feet tall and 10 feet wide, with a growth rate of 1-2 feet/year.
This juniper cultivar is a superstar! It is most often used as a feature plant to mark gateways or to soften the look of privacy walls. While the natural form is rustic and gorgeous, it can also be made into a specialty topiary.
Hollywood Juniper grows best in sunny planting locations. This plant thrives in Zones 5-9.
11. Cherry Laurel
Cherry Laurels (Prunus laurocerasus) are tall broadleaf evergreen shrubs known for their shiny dark green leaves and showy white flowers. These evergreens grow about 2 feet per year to reach a mature size of 10-12 feet tall and 8-10 feet wide.
The Cherry Laurel shrub is a popular choice for those looking for a fast-growing evergreen. Perfect for creating privacy screens or living fences, these shrubs also make beautiful specimen plants. In addition to being aesthetically pleasing, Cherry Laurels benefit local wildlife – their flowers attract pollinators and ripen into small red fruits that birds love!
These shrubs grow best in full sun, but are also tolerant of partial shade. Laurel is also semi-tolerant of salty soil. Cherry Laurel can be grown in Zones
12. Blue Princess Holly
Blue Princess Holly (Ilex x meserveae ‘Blue Princess’) is a large holly cultivar that’s easy to care for. Known for its bright red berries and dark blue-green leaves, this variety grows to a mature size of 10-15 feet tall and 8-10 feet wide.
The “Blue Princess” plant works great as a hedge or privacy screen and also provides shelter for birds and other helpful creatures. You can also use them to fill space in the back of your garden borders.
Blue Princess Holly grows best in full sun but is tolerant of partial shade. This plant thrives in Zones in 5-9.
13. Rosebay Rhododendron
Rosebay Rhododendron (Rhododendron maximum) is a large evergreen shrub native to the eastern USA and Canada. This plant typically reaches a mature size of 10-15 feet tall and 5-12 feet wide (although it can grow much larger towards the warmer end of its climatic range).
The Rhododendron maximum plant grows best in areas that are partially to fully shaded, especially locations that have afternoon shade (as opposed to morning shade). For optimal growth, this plant needs a moist location. Additionally, it does well in zones 3-7.
14. Stonehenge Yew
Stonehenge Yew (Taxus x media ‘Stonehenge’) is a specialty landscaping evergreen with a tall, columnar habit. Similar to the Hicks Yew, but skinnier, these shrubs grow to a mature size of 8-10 feet tall and 2-4 feet wide.
While they are a bit more difficult to find than Hicks, they’re well worth searching for if you are either short on space or have big plans for other plants. Stonehenge Yews look great when planted in pairs as part of an entryway or foundation planting. They also work well as tall, skinny hedges, living fences, and privacy screens.
Stonehenge Yews grow best in full sun to partial shade locations. These shrubs are tolerant of a variety of soil types but prefer well-drained conditions. They are best suited for planting in Zones 4-7.
15. Debutante Camellia
Debutante Camellia (Camellia japonica ‘Debutante’) is a relatively low-maintenance flowering evergreen shrub. These somewhat slow-growing yet pretty plants grow to reach a mature size of 8-12 feet tall and 6-10 feet wide.
Camellias are most appealing when their flowers can be appreciated often. Plant them as a living fence along a walkway, where you’ll benefit from their evergreen leaves year-round, and enjoy their springtime blooms. Thanks to their peony-like blossoms, they also make great flowering borders for herbaceous perennials.
Zones 7-10 are the most ideal for planting camellias, as they flower best in full sun though can still tolerate some shade. Additionally, these plants’ cold hardiness allows them to survive in temperatures as low as 10℉ (-12°C).
16. Hinoki Cypress
Hinoki Cypress (Chamaecyparis obtusa) is an evergreen species with several tall cultivars. The compact cultivars make wonderful foundation plants.
- ‘Slender’ Hinkoki Cypress (matures to 12-18 feet tall, 5-6 feet wide)
- ‘Tempelhof’ Hinoki Cypress (matures to 8-10 feet tall, 4-6 feet wide)
Hinoki Cypress, also called ‘False Cypress’, are native to Japan. They tend to grow best in Zones 5-8.
17. Wax Myrtle
Wax Myrtle (Myrica cerifera) is a large broadleaf evergreen shrub. This quick-grower can easily put on 2-4 feet of height per year. It develops dense foliage and often reaches a mature size of about 15 feet tall and 15 feet wide.
Perfect for privacy screens and tall hedges, these shrubs keep their leaves year-round. They also make a beautiful living backdrop with their dainty green-yellow flowers. Plus, the birds love eating the fruit off of them in wintertime!
Wax Myrtle grows best in sun but is tolerant of partial shade. This plant is for warmer climates, and thrives in Zones 7-11.
18. Allegheny Viburnum
Allegheny Viburnum (Viburnum rhytidophylloides ‘Allegheny’) is a quick-growingj m shrub with white flowers and red fruit. These plants grow 1-2 feet per year. The mature size is generally about 10 feet tall and 10 feet wide.
Not only is Viburnum a beautiful standalone plant with white flowers, but it also does well in hedges. Because of its moderate height, it can act as either a privacy screen or windbreak on spacious properties. Not to mention, birds love eating the fruit off the plant come autumn!
Allegheny Viburnum will produce flowers best in a sunny spot but is tolerant of shade. This plant can be grown in Zones 5-8, but may loose its leaves towards the cooler end of this range (Zones 5-6), especially during harsh winters, and should be considered more like deciduous shrubs in those areas.
19. Sky Pencil Holly
Sky Pencil Holly (Ilex crenata ‘Sky Pencil’) is a slow-growing narrow evergreen shrub. These skinny plants grow naturally in a columnar with minimal pruning. They reach a mature size of 6-8 feet tall and 1-2 feet wide.
Sky Pencil Holly is an ideal hedge plant if you’re looking to create a low screen. You can line them along a path or around your patio as way markers, or even use them to discreetly hide unsightly fencing or recycling bins. They also make great focal points in smaller gardens.
Sky Pencil Holly grows best in full sun but is tolerant of partial shade. These manageable shrubs are also well-suited to container planting. This cultivar is a female variety, and will produce berries if grown nearby to a male cultivar.
20. Victory Pyracantha
Victory Pyracantha (Pyracantha koidzumii ‘Victory’) is a broadleaf evergreen shrub known for its thorny stems and brightly colored red berries. This cultivar grows to a mature size of 8-10 feet tall and 6-8 feet wide.
Pyracantha is most often used as a barrier planting in large, open spaces such as for hedges, windbreaks, or privacy screens. The plant’s berries also attract birds, making it popular in wildlife gardens. In smaller areas, Pyracatha can be grown up against walls or fences and trained to grow along the surface rather than left to develop naturally into a rounded bushy form.
Victory Pyracantha is best planted in full sun, where the leaves can get enough bright sunlight for photosynthesis to create energy for all those beautiful berries. This plant thrives in Zones 7-9, and is most popular in coastal regions.
21. Emerald Fountain Canadian Hemlock
Emerald Fountain Canadian Hemlock (Tsuga canadensis ‘Monler’) is a specialty foliage evergreen. They typically grow to a mature size of 6-12 feet tall and 2-4 feet wide.
For those who want a hedge or screen that is low-maintenance, this is an excellent choice. It forms a densely branched column of evergreen foliage that requires little to no pruning and retains its dark green color in winter.
This plant grows best in Zones 4-8. It prefers full sun but will tolerate shade, making it a good choice for areas that are dappled or have partial shade for part of the day.
22. California Privet
California Privet (Ligustrum ovalifolium) is a fast growing broadleaf plant that is semi-evergreen. While it looses its leaves towards the colder end of its range, these shrubs tend to keep them in warmer climates. California Privet shrubs typically reach 10-15 feet tall and 10-12 feet wide.
Privet is a popular choice for hedges, screens, and topiary. It can be easily shaped and pruned into any desired form, whether it’s a tall privacy screen or a low border hedge. The plant is also tolerant of a wide range of soil types and conditions.
California Privet grows best in full sun but will tolerate partial shade. This plant is adaptable to a wide range of climates and soils, but does not do well in wet or poorly drained areas. It is hardy in Zones 5-9, but may lose its foliage in the winter in Zones 5-6 (and even in Zone 7 during harsh winters).
23. Fragrant Tea Olive
Fragrant Tea Olive (Osmanthus fragrans) is a slow-growing broadleaf evergreen flowering shrub. These beautiful plants reach a mature size of about 10 feet tall and 6-8 feet wide.
Tea Olive shrubs are most commonly planted as a specimen plant, in a similar manner to Gardenias. They have an almost jasmine-like scent which make them perfect for breezy pathways.
For anyone living in Zones 7-10, Fragrant Tea Olive shrubs are a nice option for a tall flowering shrub. They flower best when planted in full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
24. American Holly
American Holly (Ilex opaca) is a native evergreen that grows as a large shrub or small tree. It typically reaches a mature size of 15-30 feet tall and 10-20 feet wide.
This holly is known for its smooth grey bark, glossy green leaves, and bright berries. The berries are an important food source for birds in the winter months. American Holly is also a popular plant for holiday decoration.
This plant grows best in full sun to partial shade. It is adaptable to a wide range of soils but prefers moist, well-drained soil. American Holly is hardy in Zones 5-9.
FAQs
What are the best fast-growing tall evergreen shrubs?
Leyland Cypress (Cupressus × leylandii)
Emerald Green Arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis ‘Emerald Green’)
Spartan Juniper (Juniperus chinensis ‘Spartan’)
Oak Leaf Red Holly (Ilex x ‘Conaf’)
What are the best tall evergreen shrubs for full sun?
Moonglow Juniper (Juniperus scopulorum ‘Moonglow’)
Castle Spire Blue Holly (Ilex x meserveae)
Victory Pyracantha (Pyracantha koidzumii ‘Victory’)
Teddy Bear Southern Magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora ‘Teddy Bear’)
Spartan Juniper (Juniperus chinensis ‘Spartan’)
Bright ‘N Tight Carolina Laurel (Prunus caroliniana ‘Monus’)
What are the best tall evergreen shrubs for shady areas?
Rosebay Rhododendron (Rhododendron maximum)
Hicks Yew (Taxus x media ‘Hicksii’)
California Privet (Ligustrum ovalifolium)
Prague Viburnum (Viburnum x pragense)
Blue Princess Holly (Ilex x meserveae ‘Blue Princess’)
Resources
- Small evergreen shrubs
- Tall evergreen shrubs
- Low-maintenance evergreen shrubs
- Best evergreen shrubs for front of house
- Fast-growing evergreen shrubs
- Best evergreen shrubs for privacy
- Evergreen flowering shrubs
- Small evergreen flowering shrubs
References
- Colorado State University Extension, Evergreen Shrubs
- University of Missouri Extension, Selecting Landscape Plants: Broad-leaved Evergreens
- University of Minnesota Extension, Choosing evergreens for your landscapes
- PennState Extension, Evergreen Native Plants
More landscaping shrubs
Time to add some shrubs to your landscape to brighten things up year-round, provide privacy, and perhaps even some flowers?
12 Popular Evergreen Shrubs
By
David Beaulieu
David Beaulieu
David Beaulieu is a landscaping expert and plant photographer, with 20 years of experience.
Learn more about The Spruce's Editorial Process
Updated on 09/09/22
Reviewed by
Andrew Hughes
Reviewed by Andrew Hughes
Andrew Hughes is a certified arborist and member of the International Society of Arborists specializing in tree heal care. He founded and runs Urban Loggers, LLC, a company offering residential tree services in the Midwest and Connecticut.
Learn more about The Spruce's Review Board
Fact checked by
Elizabeth Maclennan
Fact checked by Elizabeth Maclennan
Elizabeth MacLennan is a fact checker and editor with a background in earth sciences and sustainability. Elizabeth holds an M.S. from The University of Tennessee, Knoxville.
Learn more about The Spruce's Editorial Process
fotolinchen / Getty Images
Bearing leaves or needles year-round, evergreen shrubs are the preferred bushes for gorgeous year-round yard appeal. Needle-bearing evergreen shrubs such as yews, with small, tightly spaced needles, are especially useful in hedges because they can be trimmed to precise shapes. Broadleaf evergreen shrubs with small leaves, such as boxwood, can be used in the same way, though they cry out for a good shearing that will turn them into rectangular walls. Other evergreen shrubs are striking enough to go solo and serve as specimen plants.
Here are 12 popular choices for evergreen landscape shrubs.
Tip
Before buying a landscape shrub, always check with your local extension office or a garden center expert for advice on shrubs that are invasive or prone to serious pest or disease problems in your area.
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01 of 12
The Spruce / David BeaulieuAzaleas and rhododendrons belong to the same genus, and the difference is sometimes hard to identify. While a few azaleas are evergreen, it is the rhododendron group that generally are the broadleaf evergreens, retaining leathery green-to-bronze foliage through the winter. In general, rhododendrons are larger shrubs than azaleas, and they have larger leaves. Azalea flowers typically have five stamens, while rhododendron flowers have ten.
Rhododendrons are versatile plants, often used singly as specimens, in groups for woodland gardens and shrub islands, or as foundation plants. However, they have a loose, airy growth habit that doesn't work well in hedges.
- USDA Hardiness Zones: 4–9 (depends on variety)
- Color Varieties: Lavender, pink, rose, red, white, coral, yellow
- Sun Exposure: Part shade
- Soil Needs: Rich, well-drained, acidic
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02 of 12
The Spruce / Autumn Wood
'Emerald 'n' Gold' euonymus is a broadleaf evergreen shrub grown for its variegated leaves, which have green centers with golden margins. This is a low-growing shrub (to about two feet) that sprawls out as much as four feet. It can be a versatile ground cover for both sunny and shady areas. If given support, it will climb a low wall. Foliage turns pinkish-red in the fall, and it may drop off in the colder areas of its hardiness range. Be aware that Euonymus scale can be a significant insect problem.
- USDA Hardiness Zones: 5–8
- Color Varieties: Flowers are insignificant; foliage is green with golden margins
- Sun Exposure: Full sun to part shade
- Soil Needs: Medium moisture, well-drained
Warning
Wintercreeper is technically an invasive species. It can take over yards in a hurry. To prevent its spread, keep the vines off fences and trees, which can be easily destroyed by its huge stems. It's not so aggressive as to avoid planting it, but it does require regular maintenance.
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03 of 12
The Spruce / Adrienne Legault
The Canadian hemlock, also known as the eastern hemlock, is a coniferous evergreen with small, lacy needles. The species performs well in shady conditions. While many specimens are large, growing as tall as 75 feet and serving as landscape trees, there are also compact cultivars that function as shrubs. When kept trimmed, the shrubby types form a dense living wall, making them effective privacy screens.
Canadian hemlocks perform best in cooler climates, and south of USDA hardiness zone 6 they might struggle a bit. Before planting this species, check on the presence in your region of the hemlock woolly adelgid (HWA), a very small sap-sucking insect that threatens the tree in many areas. Other hemlock species might be a better choice if HWA is a severe problem in your region.
- USDA Hardiness Zones: 3–7
- Color Varieties: Medium-green needles
- Sun Exposure: Part shade to full shade
- Soil Needs: Moist, well-drained
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04 of 12
The Spruce / David Beaulieu
Valued for its whimsical golden foliage, 'Golden Mop' (or 'Gold Mop') is a needled evergreen shrub, also known as Sawara cypress. Instead of bearing classic sharp needles, 'Golden Mop' needles are awl-shaped.
'Golden Mop' is a slow-growing, mounded shrub form of the C. pisifera species that will take ten years to reach its maximum size of five feet. It has stringy, arching, whip-like branches and is most often used in foundation plantings, in rock gardens, or as a specimen shrub in small areas.
- USDA Hardiness Zones: 4-8
- Color Varieties: Golden-yellow needles
- Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
- Soil Needs: Moist, well-drained
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05 of 12
The Spruce / Cara Cormack
Boxwood is a broadleaf evergreen shrub with very small leaves and a dense growth habit that makes it an outstanding plant for formal hedges. It is prized for its small, densely packed leaves, making it ideal for sculpting with a pair of garden shears or electric hedge trimmers.
These are slow-growing shrubs that rarely grow more than five feet tall, usually kept trimmed even shorter. Although generally evergreen, these shrubs do not like harsh winter winds, which can burn the foliage. In addition to being a very common low hedge plant, boxwoods can make good shrubs for foundation plantings.
- USDA Hardiness Zones: 5–9 (depends on variety)
- Color Varieties: Most have light- to medium-green foliage; yellow and deep-green varieties are also available.
- Sun Exposure: Full sun to part shade
- Soil Needs: Evenly moist, well-drained, loamy
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06 of 12
The Spruce / David Beaulieu
Blue holly is broadleaf evergreen shrub that usually grows six to ten feet tall, but occasionally can grow to 15 feet. Its older leaves develop a dark color that gives it its name. The branch stems also are dark. Hollies are dioecious, meaning that they have specific genders. The most popular blue holly cultivar is 'Blue Princess', a female clone. To produce berries, 'Blue Princess' requires the 'Blue Prince' male holly to be planted nearby, within 50 feet.
Blue holly is a versatile shrub used in borders, screens, hedges, and for foundation plantings.
- USDA Hardiness Zones: 3-7
- Color Varieties: Foliage is dark green with a bluish cast; insignificant white flowers in spring produce red berries if the female holly was pollinated by the appropriate male holly
- Sun Exposure: Full sun to part shade
- Soil Needs: Prefers moist, well-drained, slightly acidic; good tolerance for nearly any soil
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07 of 12
The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova
In the landscape trade, the common name arborvitae is usually applied to the various cultivars of the Thuja occidentalis species, a group of needled evergreen shrubs and trees in which the needles are arranged in flat sprays that look like fans or scales —much different than most needled evergreens. Arborvitaes are very similar to cedars, though true cedars belong to a different genus, Cedrus. The true landscape arborvitae, T. occidentalis, is sometimes called eastern white cedar, even though it is not a cedar at all.
T. occidentalis is a smallish to medium-sized tree, growing to a maximum of about 60 feet, though some cultivars are much shorter. 'Emerald Green', for example, achieves a height of only about 12 to 15 feet. 'Golden Globe' is a dwarf cultivar, topping out at only three feet. 'Pendula' is a 10-foot shrub with a weeping habit. 'Danica' is a globe-shaped arborvitae that grows only up to one foot tall.
Depending on the size and shape of the cultivar, arborvitaes can be used for a variety of landscape purposes, from foundation plantings to hedges, privacy screens to shade trees.
- USDA Hardiness Zones: 2–7; varies according to variety
- Color Varieties: Yellow-green to dark green
- Sun Exposure: Full sun to part shade
- Soil Needs: Medium moisture, well-drained; good tolerance for poor soils
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08 of 12
The Spruce / K. Dave
Mountain laurel is a broadleaf evergreen shrub that grows to about 15 feet tall and produces profuse clusters of pink or pinkish-white flowers in spring. It has a gnarled, multi-stemmed growth habit and elliptical, leathery leaves, similar to rhododendrons. Mature plants will sometimes have the appearance of small trees with gnarly trunks.
Mountain laurel is usually planted in masses around foundations, for screens, or in shrub islands.
- USDA Hardiness Zones: 4–9
- Color Varieties: Blooms are pink to white with dark purple markings
- Sun Exposure: Partial shade
- Soil Needs: Rich, moist, well-drained, slightly acidic
Warning
Be aware that all parts of the mountain laurel plant are toxic.
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09 of 12
The Spruce / Adrienne Legault
Taxus is a very large genus of needled evergreens, many of which are suitable for use as landscape shrubs for various uses. Cultivars commonly grown for landscape fall into species including Taxus baccata, T. canadensis, T. cuspidata, and Taxus × media. Yews can be distinguished from other needled evergreens by the shape and feel of the needles, which are flattish and feel soft to the touch rather than prickly like most needled evergreens. The foliage color is generally very dark green, sometimes bordering on black.
The tolerance the yew has for shade and the ease with which it can be shaped into a hedge makes it a versatile plant. It is commonly used for foundation plantings.
- USDA Hardiness Zones: 4-8, depending on the variety
- Color Varieties: Dark green needles; some have red berries
- Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
- Soil Needs: Moist, well-draining, loamy
Warning
Be aware that yew, while a wonderful landscape plant in most ways, is generally included in all official listings of toxic plants and nearly all components are toxic.
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The Spruce / David BeaulieuDepending on the USDA hardiness zone, a Daphne shrub can be deciduous, semi-evergreen, or fully evergreen. One of the most popular cultivars is 'Carol Mackie', a small rounded shrub that grows only three to four feet tall and produces pale pink flowers in spring. The leaves are grayish-green with cream-colored margins. While 'Carol Mackie' is hardy to USDA zone 4, it is likely to lose its leaves and possibly suffer some winter damage when grown in USDA zones 4 or 5. In USDA zones 6 to 8, it is more reliably evergreen.
This shrub can be finicky, sometimes dying for no apparent cause. It is a beautiful choice for shrub borders, screens, or as a foundation plant. The flowers are especially fragrant, so many people like to plant it close to walkways, entrances, and outdoor living spaces such as patios.
- USDA Hardiness Zones: 4–8
- Color Varieties: Medium-green foliage with creamy margins
- Sun Exposure: Partial shade
- Soil Needs: Moist, well-drained
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The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova
Of the many juniper species, those known as creeping junipers are generally cultivars of the aptly named Juniperis horizontalis species. These shrubs remain under 18 inches in height, with a spread as much as 10 feet. The foliage consists of prickly, scaly needles that are blue-green in color, sometimes turning purplish in winter. Some varieties produce cones that look like dark blue berries.
Creeping juniper is generally used as a sprawling ground cover, often in foundation plantings, in rock gardens, or on hillsides. The plants are usually trouble-free, but are sometimes subject to fungal problems or root rot in very wet conditions.
- USDA Hardiness Zones: 3–9
- Color Varieties: Bluish-green foliage
- Sun Exposure: Full sun
- Soil Needs: Medium moisture, well-drained; does not like wet soil
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The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova
'Blue Star' juniper is another needled evergreen with silvery-blue foliage and a low growth habit, but it is more self-contained than creeping juniper. This slow-growing plant is a dwarf, forming a compact mound that reaches just one to three feet in height at maturity, with a similar spread. The foliage is the familiar silver-blue color common to junipers, prickly and scaly in texture. The seed cones are blackish berries.
- USDA Hardiness Zones: 4–8
- Color Varieties: Silvery blue-green foliage; cones are blackish berries
- Sun Exposure: Full sun
- Soil Needs: Medium moisture, well-drained; does not tolerate wet, dense soils
There are many, many more evergreen shrub cultivars other than the 12 listed here. But a great many will be close cousins of these very popular varieties.
25 Recommended Flowering Bushes for Your Landscape
Article Sources
The Spruce uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
Kalmia latifolia. North Carolina State University Extension.
Toxicity of Yew Wood and Roots. PennState Extension.
photos with names and descriptions
Evergreen shrubs are widely used in landscape design. They are able to create the necessary comfort and shade other garden crops. And their main advantage is an attractive view all year round. You can choose a suitable shrub for yourself according to the description and photo.
Contents
- Variety of evergreen garden shrubs
- Late flowering evergreen shrubs
- Early flowering evergreen shrubs
- Evergreen garden: video
Variety of evergreen shrubs for the garden
Evergreens include coniferous and deciduous species. There are many of them, and they differ in size, direction of growth (upright and weaving). In addition to shrubs, gardeners use evergreen trees and ground cover plants. All these crops are quite hardy, undemanding to the composition of the soil, oppress weeds.
Evergreen shrubs are in demand on small plots. They become a good background for other plants and keep the garden neat and decorative all year round. Gardeners often combine shrubs that are different in terms of flowering and plant height. Popular types:
- Camellia - bush with beautiful greenery and flowers. Depending on the variety, it produces pink, red or white buds. Flowering occurs in the first half of summer. The shrub loves plenty of sun.
- Common holly or holly - has a dense dense crown of unusual spiky foliage, which contains the main decorative value. They can be not only green, but also yellow. An adult plant reaches 2-3 m in height. Blooms in late autumn. Grows well in partial shade. nine0008
- Lavender is a low growing shrub with purple or white flowers. Perfectly fits into the decor of borders or hedges.
- Rhododendron is a sought-after crop that blooms in late spring. It reaches a height of no more than 1.5 m. The buds differ greatly not only in color, but also in shape, depending on the variety. The shrub grows well in partial shade.
- Bindweed – the curly variety is great for hedges. Height - only 0.5 m. Flowering time occurs in the summer (necessarily in the warm period). In general, this culture is extremely susceptible to adverse weather conditions, is easily injured and withers from improper care. nine0008
Be careful when choosing a shrub. Despite belonging to the category of evergreens, many of them do not tolerate winters in the climate of the Russian Federation and need shelter (common holly or bindweed).
Late flowering evergreen shrubs
In addition to the holly, this includes the strawberry tree. The plant got its name because of the fruits that hang from the branches and visually resemble strawberries. With external similarity, the taste of the berries is different. nine0003 Strawberry tree
Fruiting in the strawberry tree occurs simultaneously with flowering, from mid-autumn to early winter. Flowers are pink or white. Shrub develops well in sun or partial shade, height - up to 2 m.
Advice. Due to the difficulty of rooting cuttings for planting, it may be easier to purchase a ready-made seedling.
Another shrub with relatively late flowering is defontenia prickly. It forms red buds with a yellow border from mid-summer to October. Although some varieties bloom in spring. The color of the petals can also be different and be, for example, black or pink. The shrub grows slowly (maximum - 50 cm), needs a mild climate and a gentle regime of sunlight. Therefore, summer residents usually plant already grown bushes, placing them in places shaded and protected from drafts, near walls or fences. nine0003
Aukuba is a neat shrub up to 2 m high. It has large leaves with an original ornament. On the street, it is usually grown in tubs, and hidden from the frosty wind for the winter. It grows in partial shade or shady corners of the garden, propagated by cuttings.
AucubaBoxwood is a shrub valued for its foliage. It is leathery, smooth-edged and has an elliptical shape. In the climatic conditions of the Russian Federation, it is very difficult to achieve flowering of this crop, and the inflorescences are not very decorative. Boxwood is propagated by cuttings, which are cut in spring and kept under a glass cap until autumn. nine0003
Shrub lends itself well to formative pruning. Although without it, it will also grow beautiful. According to the description, boxwood grows up to 3 m and even higher. A feature of the culture is resistance to wind and the possibility of growing on alkaline soils.
Early flowering evergreen shrubs
- Escallonia. Almost all summer the bush is covered with bell inflorescences. The plant does not like excessive shading.
- Cistus (rockrose). It blooms beautifully throughout the summer, replacing faded buds with new ones. White or pink petals at the base are covered with spots - this makes the flowers extraordinary. Both silvery leaves and buds are very fragrant. The height of the shrub is not more than 1 m, very neat and well-groomed. Grows in full sun or light shade. nine0008
- Choisia. The bush is beautiful not only because of the flat buds (pink or white), but also because of the pleasant yellowish tint of the foliage. It blooms in the second half of spring, experiencing a metamorphosis of shades by this period. The shape is round. Reproduction is carried out by cuttings, which are placed under glass jars for the summer.
- Bamboo or arundinaria. A guest from Asia in a cultivated form reaches a height of 6 m. Although there are also lower varieties of shrubs. Although exotic, the plant is undemanding. Unless it needs shelter from the midday sun. Blooms all summer. nine0008
- Trachycarpus. Blooms in June with large inflorescences. It has sharp long leaves that diverge radially from the shoot and in the composition resemble a palm fan. Strong, hardy resident of the garden. It tolerates frost well if protected from strong winds. Likes well-lit places.
Attention! If you wish, you can grow a 3-meter trachycarpus bush in your backyard. The width of the leaf plates will reach 1 m. Only for the winter it is more difficult to hide such a giant from cold winds. nine0003
Evergreen shrubs adapted to cool climates and will decorate your garden in winter. True, for some, take care of warming in advance.
Evergreen garden: video
TOP-5 evergreen shrubs for summer cottages
Extending the charm of summer is not at all difficult if the image of your unique garden is formed not only by ordinary, but also by evergreens. Of course, when choosing ornamental shrubs for a site, you need to focus on a number of important factors. But the main thing is the task that the shrubs must perform: a decorative fence for the patio area, a living wall on the border of the neighboring plot, framing the garden path, or part of the country landscape presented in garden planters. nine0003
Dmitry Mayorov
Pixabay
We have selected for you the 5 best evergreen shrubs for the garden, which will be good in different climatic zones.
Contents of the article
There are thousands of evergreen shrubs of every conceivable height, shape and color. They are resistant to various natural and climatic conditions, however, it is necessary to carefully choose the right plant for the right place (in the open sun, in the shade or in part in the sun) so that the shrub can actively grow and develop. nine0003
Leucotoe
This is a hardy and disease resistant shrub that requires little special care.
- The leaves have a leathery texture and dark green color turns purple and bronze in autumn. Creamy white bell-shaped flowers add interest to this beautiful shrub, perfect for shady gardens.
- The flowers are slightly fragrant, with a slight honey scent that attracts pollinators such as butterflies and bees, making this plant desirable and attractive in the garden landscape. nine0008
- Overall, this evergreen has a pleasing array of seasonal attire, from young bright green leaves in early spring to pink-tinged white flowers in late spring and early summer, to its autumnal transition to deeper bronze and purple flowers.
Laurel cherry
It is a wide, dense, sprawling shrub that eventually reaches a height of up to 5 meters and with a span of up to seven meters.
- Shiny, oblong, dark green leaves up to 15 cm long. The foliage is evergreen, without autumn color. nine0008
- Tiny cupped creamy white flowers in vertical clusters (inflorescences up to 13 cm long) bloom from the leaf axils in April-May.
- Flowers have a powerful fragrance. They give way to somewhat inconspicuous black drupes that ripen in mid-summer. This fruit is mostly inedible to humans (bitter aftertaste), but it is loved by local birds.
Azalea
Is there a more desirable sight in spring than the blooming azalea bush? These shade-loving plants are able to bring delightful color to all corners of the spring garden. nine0104
- The color range is impressive - from white to pale pink, from red to purple. Most azaleas bloom in mid-spring, but some bloom earlier or later than others, so it's easy to choose a variety for your design needs.
- They need water to flower and spring rains usually take care of this problem. However, if the spring is dry, additional watering may be beneficial.
- Winter hardiness of azaleas varies and therefore it is very important to carefully choose the plant variety and planting site. nine0008
- If it is too cold, the buds may not form, and if it is too hot, the flowers may burn from excessive temperature exposure.
- Mold can be detrimental to azaleas and to ensure adequate air circulation, do not plant them too close to other large shrubs.
Evergreen boxwood
The genus Buxus includes about 70 species of slow-growing broad-leaved evergreens. Most garden forms are varieties or hybrids of two species: B. sempervirens and B. microphylla. nine0104
- Boxwoods are usually large shrubs or small trees, but most varieties used in modern landscaping are dwarf varieties such as B. sempervirens ‘Suffruticosa’ and Buxus sinica var. Insularis.
- Reaching a full height of just 60 cm. These dwarf boxwood shrubs are prized for their thick, light green leaves and round, compact forms when growing.
- Boxwood tolerates full sun or partial shade but is best planted in dappled shade during the hottest part of the day. Covered by trees, dwarf boxwood roots will benefit from cooler soil temperatures. nine0008
- Boxwood requires weekly deep watering for the first two years, otherwise the moisture will not reach the main root system. With deep watering every 2-4 weeks, mature plants will grow well.
- In the spring, before new shoots appear, the bushes must be fertilized with an all-purpose fertilizer.
Heather
Heather is suitable for uniform plantings. For a greater decorative effect, you can choose different varieties. The evergreen bush goes well with other crops, for example, with juniper or thuja. nine0003
For landscaping we can recommend the following types of heather:
- Erica. It grows as a semi-shrub, shrub or tree with small, needle-like leaves. Pink or white flowers resemble drooping bells, collected in large brushes.
- Yana. Compact shrub up to 30 cm high. Branches are very dense, straight, directed upwards. The flowers are large, double, bright pink. Flowering begins in early autumn, ends in November. nine0008
- Carmen. A compact rounded bush 30-40 cm high. The shoots are covered with very small leaves of a rich dark green tone. Purple or pink flowers are collected in long, up to 10 cm, peduncles.
Evergreens are a win-win option for landscaping.