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Small evergreens for front of house


30+ best evergreen shrubs for front of house

The best evergreen shrubs for in front of a house tend to be tidy, low-growing plants with year-round interest. Good choices are also generally low maintenance, growing naturally into the desired size and shape rather than being controlled with frequent pruning. Here are some of the best evergreen shrubs for in front of your house.

1. Winter Gem Boxwood

2. Blue Star Juniper

3. Eternal Fragrance Daphne

4. Sprinter Boxwood

5. Hollywood Juniper

6. Little Gem Norway Spruce

7. Green Mountain Boxwood

8. Bird’s Nest Spruce

9. Hinoki Cypress

10. Densa Japanese Yew

11. Grey Owl Juniper

12. Emerald Gaiety Euonymus

13. Emerald Fountain Canadian Hemlock

14. Carol Mackie Daphne

15. Green Gem Boxwood

16. Perfume Princess Daphne

17. Soft Caress Mahonia

18. Sunshine Ligustrum

19. Fragrant Tea Olive

20. Dwarf Mugo Pine

21. Japanese Skimmia

22. Green Velvet Boxwood

23. Japanese Aralia

24. Manhattan Euonymus

25. August Beauty Gardenia

26. Cherry Laurel

27. Sky Pencil Holly

28. Debutante Camellia

29. Wax Myrtle

30. Moonglow Juniper

31. Dwarf Black Spruce

FAQs

What are the best low-growing shrubs for in front of a house?

What are the best shrubs for the front of a house in full sun?

What are the best shrubs for the front of a house in the shade?

Resources

References

More landscaping shrubs

1. Winter Gem Boxwood

Winter Gem Boxwood (Buxus microphylla japonica ‘Winter Gem’) is a classic small evergreen that works very well as a foundation plant in front of a house. Popular in both traditional and modern garden designs, these plants grow to a petite mature size of 2-4 feet tall and 1-3 feet wide.

‘Winter Gem’ is most commonly used as a low-growing hedging plant or low-growing foundation plant. They work well along the walkway to the front door or along an adjacent driveway. The plants can be left unpruned as the ultimate low maintenance evergreen shrubs. For a formal appearance, they can be sheared into a straight hedge several times per year. These boxwoods can also be planted in containers on your front porch and sheared into a dense shrub.

Winter Gem Boxwood grows best in the sun but is tolerant of partial shade. These plants thrive in Zones 5-9.

2. Blue Star Juniper

Blue Star Juniper (Juniperus squamata ‘Blue Star’) is a very small cultivar of needled evergreen. These drought tolerant plants are mounded and symmetrical, reaching a mature size of 2-3 feet tall and 3-4 feet wide.

‘Blue Star’ is most commonly used as a foundation planting in front of homes and other buildings. These low maintenance shrubs can also be used as a ground cover plant in larger spaces and on gently sloping hills. The silvery-blue foliage color makes this plant a wonderful choice for adding texture and tone to your garden design.

Blue Star Juniper should be planted in full sun for the best results, as juniper is not particularly tolerant of shade. These slow-growing plants thrive in Zones 4-8 and are particularly deer resistant if your yard is along a wildlife grazing path.

3. Eternal Fragrance Daphne

Eternal Fragrance Daphne (Daphne x transatlantica ‘Eternal Fragrance’) is a broadleaved evergreen flowering shrub known for its beautiful scent. This compact variety grows to a mature size of 2-3 feet tall and 2-3 feet wide.

The floral scent of these flowering shrubs makes them a good choice for along a walkway or next to an entryway. Place them around a patio or deck, where they can be fully enjoyed. They can also be massed along a gentle slope or planted in your front yard up against a picket fence, where passersby can enjoy the fragrance.

Daphne flowers best in full sun, but is tolerant of partial shade. This plant thrives in Zones 6-9.

4. Sprinter Boxwood

Sprinter Boxwood (Buxus microphylla ‘Bulthouse’) is one of the fastest-growing boxwood varieties available. These quick-growers reach their mature size of 2-4 feet tall and 2-4 feet wide in only a few years.

This boxwood cultivar is commonly used as a foundation planting, hedge plant, border shrub, or as a specimen planting/accent plant. The shrubs can be left unpruned for a natural look or sheared into a tight linear form.

The bright green foliage makes these plants excellent shrubs for the front of a property because it looks great year round. You can even dress up your foundation plantings for Christmas rather than buying boxwood wreaths for the porch!

Boxwood grows best in sun but is tolerant of partial shade. This shrub thrives in Zones 5-8. Boxwood shrubs are also quite deer resistant and are tolerant of acidic soil.

5. Hollywood Juniper

Hollywood Juniper (Juniperus chinensis ‘Torulosa’) is a tall evergreen shrub with unique twisted foliage. These fast-growing shrubs have a wind-blown appearance and reach a mature size of about 15 feet tall and 10 feet wide.

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 around estate properties. While the natural form is rustic and gorgeous, it can also be made into a specialty topiary.

Hollywood Juniper grows best in direct sun. This plant thrives in Zones 5-9.

6. Little Gem Norway Spruce

Little Gem Norway Spruce (Picea abies ‘Little Gem’) is a tidy, low-growing evergreen shrub. This needled evergreen grows to a mature size of only 1-2 feet tall and about 3 feet wide.

‘Little Gem’ is a popular foundation plant for small buildings and specimen plants in eye-catching garden beds. They grow at a slow pace, so you won’t have to worry about them taking over their space. These gems require next to no maintenance!

Little Gem Norway Spruce grows best in full sun. These shrubs are particularly cold-hardy, and can be grown in Zones 2-8.

7. Green Mountain Boxwood

Green Mountain Boxwood (Buxus x ‘Green Mountain’) is a small cone-shaped broadleaf evergreen shrub. These beautiful plants grow to a mature size of 3-5 feet tall and 2-3 feet wide.

Being that it is pyramidal, ‘Green Mountain’ is mostly used for aesthetic purposes. Try planting it in the back of a garden or at the end of a hedge. It also serves as a unique topiary specimen.

These shrubs for the front are another holiday favorite, as they can be dressed up as Christmas trees for the holidays. The light green foliage stands out nicely with some red ribbons on a snowy winter day, making it one of the best shrubs for year-round appeal.

Green Mountain Boxwood grows best in full sun, but is tolerant of partial shade. These plants grow best in Zones 5-8.

8. Bird’s Nest Spruce

Bird’s Nest Spruce (Picea abies ‘Nidiformis’) is a specialty cultivar of Norway Spruce known for its low-growing spreading growth habit. Mature plants typically reach a mature size of about 3 feet tall and 4-5 feet wide.

These plants are used almost exclusively as feature plants due to their unique form. As the name suggests, the plants are bowl-shaped, with the outside perimeter of the foliage growing taller than the foliage in the center of the plant.

Bird’s Nest Spruce should be planted in full sun for best results. While they do need watering often when newly planted, these aren’t the best plants for locations with consistently moist soil. This slow-growing plant thrives in Zones 3-7.

9. Hinoki Cypress

Hinoki Cypress (Chamaecyparis obtusa) is an evergreen species that offers several smaller cultivars. The compact cultivars make wonderful foundation plants.

Hinoki Cypress, also called ‘False Cypress’, are native to Japan. They tend to grow best in Zones 5-8.

10. Densa Japanese Yew

Densa Japanese Yew (Taxus cuspidata ‘Densa’) is a needled evergreen with a spreading growth habit. These plants reach a mature size of 3-4 feet tall and 6-8 feet wide.

Densa Japanese Yew is best known for its use as a foundation plant in front of houses and other buildings. They can also be used to create low hedges. These shrubs are tolerant of shearing, so they can be pruned into a variety of shapes.

Japanese Yew grows most quickly in full sun but is also tolerant of shady conditions. This plant thrives in Zones 4-7.

11. Grey Owl Juniper

Grey Owl Juniper (Juniperus virginiana ‘Grey Owl’) is a dwarf needled evergreen cultivar. Mature plants are about twice as wide as they are tall and grow to a size of 2-3 feet tall and 5-6 feet wide.

This juniper has a very fine texture and arching branches. These characteristics make it perfect for mass plantings, such as over a slightly sloping area adjacent to a yard or even as a small hedge.

Grey Owl Juniper grows best in full sun, but may appreciate a bit of afternoon shade in the hottest climates. This plant thrives in Zones 4-9.

12. Emerald Gaiety Euonymus

Emerald Gaiety Euonymus (Euonymus fortunei ‘Emerald Gaiety’) is a broadleaf evergreen known for its variegated leaves. This low-growing mounded plant reaches a mature size of 2-4 feet tall and 3-4 feet wide.

Plant ‘Emerald Gaiety’ to create a foundation planting alongside a building, or as part of your year-round interest in your perennial garden bed. These low maintenance plants can also reduce mowing requirements by being planted en masse over a gently sloping area..

Emerald Gaiety Euonymus grows best in full sun but is tolerant of partial shade and even of full shade (although the variegation likely won’t be as striking). These plants thrive in Zones 5-9.

13. Emerald Fountain Canadian Hemlock

Emerald Fountain Canadian Hemlock (Tsuga canadensis ‘Monler’) is a needled evergreen plant with beautiful dark green foliage. This plant reaches a mature size of a 6-12 feet tall and 2-4 feet wide.

Canadian Hemlock is commonly used as a privacy hedge or a screen. The plants don’t require much pruning, and can be left to grow naturally into an informal hedge. You can also plant one specimen on each side of the front of the house to visually frame the building. They make lovely perimeter plants around a bed of english shrub roses or

Emerald Fountain Canadian Hemlock grows best in full sun (in cooler climates). These plants thrive in Zones 3-8.

14. Carol Mackie Daphne

Carol Mackie Daphne (Daphne × burkwoodii ‘Carol Mackie’) is a wonderful broadleaf plant perfect for the front of your house in warmer climates. These showy shrubs bloom in early spring with fragrant flowers. Mature plants typically reach a size of 3-4 feet tall and 3-4 feet wide.

The plant has variegated foliage. It is evergreen in more temperate climates but will lose its leaves in colder regions. In those colder areas, it may take some time for the leaves to grow back in the Spring. If growing this plant in Zones 5-6, treat it more like a deciduous shrub in your house landscaping plan and give it a spot where its summer blooms can be appreciated.

The white flowers bloom best in sun but can tolerate some shade. This is not the best choice for a home’s curb appeal in a cold, shaded front yard. This plant grows best in Zones 5-9, and is typically evergreen in Zones 7-9.

15. Green Gem Boxwood

Green Gem Boxwood (Buxus x ‘Green Gem’) is a classic small evergreen for formal gardens. These plants grow naturally into a compact ball shape, reaching a mature size of only 2-3 feet tall and 2-3 feet wide.

‘Green Gem’ plants are most commonly used as formal foundation plants, low hedge plants, or edging plants. They can be left unpruned to grow naturally or trimmed into a formal sheared shape.

Green Gem Boxwood grows best in sun, but is tolerant of partial shade. These plants are also very cold-hardy and thrive in Zones 4-9.

16. Perfume Princess Daphne

Perfume Princess Daphne (Daphne x ‘Perfume Princess’) is a flowering evergreen shrub known for its highly-scented and long-lasting flowers. This plant grows to a mature size of about 4 feet tall and 3 feet wide.

Daphne is best planted where it can be enjoyed. This variety blooms particularly early and for a particularly long time. It works well as a foundation planting (especially under a working window, where its fragrance can be enjoyed indoors and out). It’s also perfect beside a driveway, pathway, or entrance.

Daphne flowers best in full sun as long as the plant receives enough water. This cultivar is particularly tolerant of sunlight and heat in warmer climates and is a good choice for a sunny spot. These shrubs are also tolerant of partial shade, and while they may not flower as much in the shade, they won’t require watering as frequently and may benefit from afternoon shade in the hottest climates. Perfume Princess Daphne can be grown in Zones 7-9.

17. Soft Caress Mahonia

Soft Caress Mahonia (Mahonia eurybracteata ‘Soft Caress’) is a dwarf mahonia variety with a compact growth habit. This yellow- flowering plant grows to a mature size of 3-4 feet tall and 3-4 feet wide.

This plant can work as an accent plant or in a low mass planting, depending on your needs. While most types of Mahonia have sharp leaves, this variety is named for its softer leaves. This makes it more suitable for beside walkways.

Mahonia grows best in partial sun to partial shade. While tolerant of full shade, the plant likely will not flower well with little available sunlight for photosynthesis. This plant thrives in Zones 7-9.

18. Sunshine Ligustrum

Sunshine Ligustrum (Ligustrum sinense ‘Sunshine’) is a small evergreen shrub known for its bright golden-green foliage. A variety of Privet, this fast-growing shrub grows to a mature size of about 3-4 feet tall and 3-4 feet wide.

Sunshine Ligustrum is resistant to many common pests and disease, and also resistant to many environmental conditions. It is resistant to deer and pest insects, as well as to mildew fungal diseases. Ligustrum is typically both drought and heat tolerant once established.

This low growing shrub can be planted as a single specimen, a grouping of specimens, or as a low border along a walkway. The light green can easily add to curb appeal as a pop of bright color in the front yard.

19. Fragrant Tea Olive

Fragrant Tea Olive (Osmanthus fragrans) is a slow-growing evergreen flowering shrub. These beautiful plants reach a mature size of about 10 feet tall and 6-8 feet wide.

Tea Olive shrubs are often planted on their own as a specimen plant, in the same way you would Gardenias. They have a jasmine-like scent, which make them ideal for beside breezy pathways.

Fragrant Tea Olive flowers bloom best when the plants are located in a sunny planting spot. They can also be planted in some shade, particularly if you live in a very hot climate. These plants thrive in Zones 7-10.

20. Dwarf Mugo Pine

Dwarf Mugo Pine (Pinus mugo var. pumilio) is a popular slow-growing dwarf conifer. These tiny needled evergreens have a dense habit and grow to a mature size of 3-5 feet tall and 3-5 feet wide.

Mugo Pine is a popular specimen plant for front yards and garden beds where sight lines must be maintained. The plants are generally planted alone but can also be grouped organically in larger spaces. This compact shrub almost looks like a bonsai tree in the landscape.

Dwarf Mugo Pine grows best in direct sunlight. This cold-hardy species thrives in Zones 2-8.

21. Japanese Skimmia

Japanese Skimmia (Skimmia japonica) is a slow-growing broadleaf flowering evergreen shrub. These mounded plants eventually reach a mature size of 2-5 feet tall and 3-6 feet wide.

There are many ways to use this plant in your landscaping, from a low hedge to a container plant. If you have one of each gender planted together, the small cream-white flowers will turn into bright red berries by late summer. Just be sure not to put them in dry soil – they prefer places with consistently wet soil (although stagnant soggy soil is not good).

Japanese Skimmia should not be planted in full sun, and should instead be sited in partial sun (at most). This plant is quite tolerant of partial shade and even full shade, and is a great choice for a small flowering shrub in a shade garden. Japanese Skimmia thrives in Zones 7-9.

22. Green Velvet Boxwood

Green Velvet Boxwood (Buxus x ‘Green Velvet’) is a spreading broadleaf evergreen. These rounded shrubs typically reach a mature size of 3-4 feet tall and 3-4 feet wide.

Green Velvet Boxwood plants are characterized by their round, sphere-like shape. You can either allow the plant to grow naturally or trim it into a neat ball for a more polished appearance. These boxwoods also look great when planted alone or in pairs (either symmetrically or grouped together arbitrarily). They are commonly used to create low hedges (about 3 feet tall) because of their size and color.

Green Velvet Boxwood grows best in full sun but is tolerant of partial shade. This shrub grows best in Zones 5-9 and is resistant to winter bronzing at the cooler end of this range.

23. Japanese Aralia

Japanese Aralia (Fatsia japonica) is a rounded broadleaf evergreen shrub for warm climates that’s known for its large, exotic leaves and ornamental black berries. These plants grow at a moderate rate to reach a mature size of 5-8 feet tall and 5-8 feet wide.

Fatsia japonica is very versatile in the landscape. It can be used as a foundation plant, a privacy screen at the back of a perennial garden bed, or alongside a patio or pool. This evergreen flowering shrub blooms in late winter with delicate white flowers. In cool climates, Japanese Aralia can be planted in a container and moved indoors when there is the threat of frost.

Japanese Aralia should not be planted in direct sun and should instead be sited in partial sun (at most). This plant is also tolerant of partial shade and even full shade. Japanese Aralia is a warm-climate plant and thrives in Zones 8-11.

24. Manhattan Euonymus

Manhattan Euonymus (Euonymus kiautschovicus ‘Manhattan’) is a fast-growing broadleaf evergreen shrub. These vigorous plants look a bit like giant boxwoods, and reach a mature size of 6-8 feet tall and 4-6 feet wide.

There are many ways to utilize euonymus shrubs in your front garden. They make great informal hedges and can be planted alone or with other plants. You can also trim them into a more formal shape or train them to grow along a wall.

Manhattan Euonymus grows best in full sun but is quite tolerant of shade. While the plant won’t grow as vigorously in full shade as it would in full sun, it still manages to put on quite a bit of growth each year. This plant thrives in Zones 5-8.

25. August Beauty Gardenia

August Beauty Gardenia Shrub (Gardenia jasminoides ‘August Beauty’) is a small flowering evergreen shrub. Suitable only for warm climates, this plant grows to a mature size of 4-6 feet tall and 3-4 feet wide.

‘August Beauty’ is the perfect plant for beside entryways, gates, and doors. It will welcome visitors when planted alongside your front walk. It also is a perfect bush for adding to cozy courtyard settings where its beautiful scent can be enjoyed.

August Beauty Gardenia flowers best when planted in direct sunlight. This warm-climate plant thrives in Zones 8-11, and is only cold-hardy down to about  20℉ (-7°C).

26. Cherry Laurel

Cherry Laurels (Prunus laurocerasus) are tall broadleaf evergreen shrubs known for their shiny dark green leaves and showy white flowers. These fast-growing flowering evergreens typically grow to a mature size of 10-12 feet tall and 8-10 feet wide.

Perfect for hedges, living fences, or even as a standalone specimen shrub, Cherry Laurel’s flowers attract pollinators before ripening into small red fruits that serve as sustenance for birds.

These shrubs grow best in sunny spots where the white flowers tend to bloom best. That said, laurel is also tolerant of some shade. Laurel is also semi-tolerant to salty soil.

27. Sky Pencil Holly

Sky Pencil Holly (Ilex crenata ‘Sky Pencil’) is a narrow evergreen shrub. These slow-growing 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 most commonly used as a hedge plant to create a low screen. You can plant them along a path to define the walkway or around a patio. They can also be used to screen an unsightly fence or even your recycling bins. A single specimen is also useful as a tall accent 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.

28. Debutante Camellia

Debutante Camellia (Camellia japonica ‘Debutante’) is a relatively low-maintenance flowering evergreen shrub. These pretty plants grow to reach a mature size of 8-12 feet tall and 6-10 feet wide.

Camellias are best planted where their gorgeous flowers can be most frequently enjoyed. Use them as a privacy hedge along a pathway, where their evergreen foliage is useful year-round and the flowers can be enjoyed in the spring. With their peony-like flowers, they also make wonderful flowering backdrops for herbaceous perennials.

Camellias flower best when planted in full sun, but are somethwat tolerant of partial shade. These plants thrive in Zones 7-10, and are hardy down to 10℉ (-12°C).

29. Wax Myrtle

Wax Myrtle (Myrica cerifera) is a large broadleaf evergreen shrub. This quick-grower has dense foliage and reaches a mature size of about 15 feet tall and 15 feet wide.

These tall shrubs are perfect for privacy screens and tall hedges, as they keep their leaves year-round in most climates. With their dainty green-yellow flowers, they also make a wonderful living backdrop for your perennial beds or for a wildlife garden space (the birds love the fruit in the wintertime).

Wax Myrtle grows best in full sun but is tolerant of partial shade. This plant is for warmer climates, and thrives in Zones 7-11.

30. Moonglow Juniper

Moonglow Juniper (Juniperus scopulorum ‘Moonglow’) is a tall evergreen shrub with attractive silvery-green foliage. These popular plants reach a mature size of 18-20 feet tall and 6-8 feet wide.

Moonglow Junipers are often used as hedges or tall privacy screens. They have a natural pyramidal shape and require very little maintenance (unless they are regularly trimmed into a formal hedge). Junipers are also common in wildlife gardens, as they provide valuable habitat for songbirds.

Moonglow Juniper grows best in full sun, and is not tolerant of shady conditions. That said, this plant is very cold-hardy and can be grown in Zones 3-7.

31. Dwarf Black Spruce

Dwarf Black Spruce (Picea mariana ‘Nana’) is a low-maintenance evergreen for a front yard rock garden or xeriscaped area. This dense slow-growing shrub eventually reaches a mature size of about 3 feet tall and 4-6 feet wide.

This needled plant has a deep green tone with almost a blue appearance. Its rounded growth habit and colorful foliage stands out in the winter landscape and provides a nice backdrop to herbacous plants and ornamental grasses in the summertime.

These low growing shrubs grow best in well draining soil and are very winter hardy. Black Spruce can be grown in Zones 3-8.

FAQs

What are the best low-growing shrubs for in front of a house?

Little Gem Norway Spruce (Picea abies ‘Little Gem’): 1-2 feet tall
Blue Star Juniper (Juniperus squamata ‘Blue Star’): 2-3 feet tall
Eternal Fragrance Daphne (Daphne x transatlantica ‘Eternal Fragrance’): 2-3 feet tall
Winter Gem Boxwood (Buxus microphylla japonica ‘Winter Gem’): 2-4 feet tall
Sprinter Boxwood (Buxus microphylla ‘Bulthouse’): 2-4 feet tall
Densa Japanese Yew (Taxus cuspidata ‘Densa’): 3-4 feet tall

What are the best shrubs for the front of a house in full sun?

Blue Star Juniper (Juniperus squamata ‘Blue Star’)
Bird’s Nest Spruce (Picea abies ‘Nidiformis’)
Winter Gem Boxwood (Buxus microphylla japonica ‘Winter Gem’)
Little Gem Norway Spruce (Picea abies ‘Little Gem’)
Hollywood Juniper (Juniperus chinensis ‘Torulosa’)

What are the best shrubs for the front of a house in the shade?

Japanese Skimmia (Skimmia japonica)
Densa Japanese Yew (Taxus cuspidata ‘Densa’)
Emerald Gaiety Euonymus (Euonymus fortunei ‘Emerald Gaiety’)
Japanese Aralia (Fatsia japonica)
Winter Gem Boxwood (Buxus microphylla japonica ‘Winter Gem’)
Soft Caress Mahonia (Mahonia eurybracteata ‘Soft Caress’)

Resources

References

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 Best Low Maintenance Evergreen Shrubs For Front Of House

It looks kind of lonely to see a house with empty front landscaping, no matter how good the architecture is.

But a house accented by living green ornaments and evergreen shrubs is worthy of a double look.

What is a greater kind of plant to use than an evergreen shrub? That will stay small, are low-maintenance and evergreen?

They maintain color in all seasons, short and very manageable.

But before you finally decide, you must first ready enough space that can accommodate the evergreen shrub for your house.

Make sure that its height will not block your house. Anyways, evergreen shrubs enjoy being trimmed.

Without dragging it further, here is a list of the best evergreen shrub for the front of the house.

Surely, this kind of plant will make your house look and feel fresh.

12 Best Evergreen Shrubs For Front Of Houses

Before we begin, below are our top 3 recommendations for fertilizing your shrubs and trees in your landscaping.

From the get-go, plants are the beautiful ornaments of our houses.

In front of houses, using low maintenance dwarf evergreen shrubs is the best choice because it will keep your house lively throughout the year, and shrubs don’t exceed 20 feet in height.

It is important to note that all kinds of shrubs benefit from regular pruning.

It helps the appearance to be kept neat and promotes flowering.

Here are the 12 best small evergreen shrubs For The Front Of House

1. Sprinter Boxwood Shrubs (Buxus Microphylla ‘Bulthouse’)

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Size

Looking into this kind of shrub, you will feel a great resemblance to The Hobbit community.

Boxwoods are low-maintenance evergreen shrubs that can transform your front yard into a wonderland of lush green.

The oval leaves turn yellowish or reddish if overexposed to direct sun or windbreak.

It will strive better in a bright location with partial shade.

It is very flexible and follows the desired shape you have set it in during trimmings.

The soil type it prefers is not anything special for as long as it drains well. It does not like to stay in soggy soil and stagnant water.

It can weaken in the cold winter. They will thank you if you give them mulch to protect its roots and burlap wraps from covering its entirety.

It is not into cold but warmer areas. It is drought and deer-resistant too.

Established sprinters only need watering when rainfall isn’t enough to let them dry out. It is hardy to zones 5-8.

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2. Green Mountain Boxwood (Buxus Sempervirens ‘Green Mountain’)

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Size

Assuming the front of your house is big and elevated, another type of boxwood perfect for enhancing your facade is the Green Mountain.

It is quite tall; in that sense, make sure you trim it regularly, keeping it neat and your house design visible.

It is naturally conical so that you can picture a petite Christmas tree as your front liners.

Green Mountain boxwood shrubs grow moderately, about 3-6 inches a year, keeping deer away since they are resistant to their natural state.

It will require regular watering in well-draining soil. Slightly acidic soil is more preferred, though.

Compared to other boxwood varieties, Green Mountain is more tolerant of short periods of drought enjoying the full sun but can thrive in partial shade.

It can grow greenish-cream flowers too and hardy in regions 4-9.

Quick Facts

Below are some other boxwoods that you may be interested in planting into your landscaping.

3. Densa Japanese (Yew Taxus Cuspidate)

Size

Quite a spreader. Densa Japanese Yew is a dark green shrub with needle-like foliage, perfect for the front-of-house decoration and curb appeal.

These turn into reddish-green during winter.

This shrub is dense in nature that you may try mass planting it as your front borders.

Your location is not of much concern because it is tolerant of urban pollution.

This is one of the evergreens that can tolerate full shade.

It can grow well even under dappled light, but that doesn’t imply that they don’t do well in full sun.

Like most plants, it is not fond of stagnant water, meaning it prefers well-draining soil regardless of its acidity. Keep it evenly moist regularly.

You can protect it during winter by mulching the root areas.

A little caution in the household with pets: all species of Japanese yew are poisonous when ingested.

It bears red small fruits, but it will harm pets and humans if consumed.

It is deer-resistant too and hardy to zone 4b in the USDA map.

Quick Facts

Products

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Southern Living Baby Gem Boxwood (Hedge, Bush, Green Foliage) (Cant Ship TN), 2 Gallon

Buxus micro. jap. 'Green Mountain' (Boxwood) Evergreen, #2 - Size Container

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EDITOR'S #1 CHOICE

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Southern Living Baby Gem Boxwood (Hedge, Bush, Green Foliage) (Cant Ship TN), 2 Gallon

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#2nd Best Choice

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Name

Buxus micro. jap. 'Green Mountain' (Boxwood) Evergreen, #2 - Size Container

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4. Emerald Fountain (Tsuga Canadensis ‘Monler’)

Size

By its common name it goes by, Canadian hemlock, it is easy to infer that they are native of Canada.

They are part of the pine species but can be grown lushly as the front house furnishing too.

It is dense and conical, a perfect hedge, screen, or a stand-alone evergreen.

This species is evergreen with red-brown stems. The needle-like dark green leaves are regarded as the smallest among the genus.

It grows well in any soil type that drains well and is averagely moist. Regular watering is advised, especially in the first weeks of growing.

Emerald fountain is not drought-tolerant.

As a matter of fact, it may be damaged from a temperature higher than 95 degrees F if exposed for long periods.

In rare cases, extremely hot weather can be fatal to it. The zone of the hardiness of T.canadensis is 4 to 7.

Quick Facts

5. Sea Green Juniper (Juniperus Chinensis ‘Sea Green’)

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Size

Of all possible names for a shrub, why sea green? It is because this variety of Juniper has bluish-green foliage, the color of the beautiful sea.

The branches arch like the fireworks on display.

It bears blueberries which are in question if edible. To be safe, you better not eat it.

Deer will not be interested in lurking around, but likewise, it doesn’t attract any beneficial insects.

Sea green juniper is a high-maintenance shrub that asks for a regular check-up.

It cannot last in very wet soil. But aside from the watering issue, it can thrive in any soil type that drains well.

It does well in full sunlight and is tolerant of urban pollution.

It is an important characteristic of juniper, making it a popular genus in gardening. Daily smoke and heat are not fatal to juniper.

Quick Facts

6. Asparagus Fern (Asparagus Densiflorus “Myersii”)

Size

I saw it and fell in love with it. Asparagus fern or foxtail fern is a low-growing evergreen with unique-looking dense foliage.

It arches with feathery stems and bright green leaves.

Asparagus fern, despite its name, is not a true fern and not edible like asparagus.

Hence, it is a true family of the Asparagus genus. The plant is a native of South Africa.

The evergreen shrub for front of houses is not into direct light.

The color ranges from yellow, pale green, or deep green if under direct light, full shade, or partial shade.

Foxtail fern can tolerate cool temperatures but up to 25 degrees F only.

Lower, and it will be deadly to the plant. During the cold season, the plant tends to rest but is not dormant.

Asparagus fern prefers moist soil that drains well.

It appreciates heat, so you may tag it drought-tolerant.

At the same time, it is tolerant to salt sprays. It is hardy to zones 9-11 and can sometimes be invasive.

If you are looking for ideas on what type of ferns to grow, you can look at our post on the most popular ferns to grow indoors or outside.

Quick Facts

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7. Evergreen Azalea (Rhododendron Indicum)

Size

The scarlet flowers of the shrub will surely steal your interest.

Evergreen azaleas, or Azaleas for short, is a broadleaf evergreen shrub with shiny green leaves that turns reddish during winter.

It blooms red flowers in mid-spring.

It is native to Japan, where it tolerates cooler summer. It is winter hardy in the U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 7 through 9.

Although azaleas are categorized as winter hardy, it is still safe to mulch them, especially when the winter wind is very prominent.

Mulching will keep the soil cool in summer but warm during winter.

This plant requires constant moisture and benefits greatly in rich, fertilized, acidic soil (ph of 6.5).

It is prone to root rot when left on water not drained well from the soil.

Azalea survives more in areas where there is no extremely hot season.

It enjoys more on dappled light outdoors or filtered sunlight for as long as it is not direct.

Unfortunately for this evergreen, it is vulnerable to pests and diseases.

But with proper attention, it can grow healthy and limit problems.

Quick Facts

8. Georgia Petite Indian Hawthorn (Rhaphiolepis X Delacourii ‘Georgia Petite’)

Size

By far, it is like a wedding aisle in your front yard, and up-close Georgia Petite Indian Hawthorn looks like blossoms of popcorn from its pink buds.

It is in great contrast to its dark green foliage that is very dense.

It has a mild fragrance that can last throughout the year. The flowers turn to dark blue ornamental berries afterward.

Indian Hawthorn prefers to be in evenly moist soil.

Before it can establish a vast root system, it requires regular watering.

However, it can be reduced to weekly once they mature.

Similar to most plants, it favors soil that drains well despite average acidity or fertility.

The plant grows well in a spot receiving good sun to a slightly shaded area.

It is mildly drought-resistant but a true disease-resistant shrub.​

In its native habit, Asia, it grows aggressively in the wild. However, the dwarf version, like Georgia petite, is very manageable.

Quick Facts

9.

Brilliant Hibiscus (Hibiscus Rosa-Sinensis ‘Brilliant’)
Size

Make this your flowering hedge because the big red flowers of this tropical hibiscus stand out against the green stem and leaves.

The flowers are naturally designed with red stigma and yellow anthers.

The flowering evergreen shrub is tough against deer, so that you may use it as a bed, border, or foundation in front of your house without worry from stray animals.

It likes soil that is consistently wet but drains well. It will like it more if the soil is rich and treated.

When it comes to strong winds, it rather chooses a well-protected area than being swayed heavily.

It will tolerate being sheltered but more in full sun.

It must be watered thoroughly until winter when you can greatly reduce it during its initial growth.

Despite being tolerant of other conditions, it is sensitive to changing temperature.

If you have started growing it in full sun or partial shade, you better not change it halfway through the growing time.

Else, it will affect its blooming time and see bud drops.

Quick Facts

10. Chinese Snowball (Viburnum Macrocephalum)

Size

Native to mainland China, the Chinese snowball Viburnum is a woody evergreen shrub that produces a cluster of flowers in round form.

The flowers come as green but quickly turns white.

The white and round form of its flower makes it worthy of being called snowball.

Each little white flowers are 1.25 wide and 8 inches in a cluster. The inflorescence has no fragrance.

The shrub is hardy to USDA zones 6-9. It has a medium growth rate and has moderate care required.

It grows well to direct sunlight but can prosper in partial shades, too, with a minimum of 2 hours of direct sun.

It prefers slightly acidic soil that has good drainage.

Watering it in moderation can keep its preferred soil to be moist.

Chinese snowball is resistant to damage by deer and can attract beautiful butterflies in the garden.

However, It is not resilient to cold winds and asks for protection instead.

Quick Facts

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11. Carol Mackie (Daphne X Burkwoodii)

Size

A variegated Daphne shrub, Carol Mackie, is the most popular Daphne evergreen in mild climates.

The leaves of the shrub are green outlined with yellow to creamy white lines.

In full bloom, it bears white to pink flowers in masses forming tubular shoots.

It is grown hardy in zones 4-9.

Daphne’s are fastidious shrubs that don’t appreciate replanting once established.

It is better to be careful planting it with the long-term garden landscape in mind.

It does well in full sun and on a partial screen as long as the soil in its area has good drainage.

Though it likes a moist environment, overwatering can cause root rot.

Matured Carol Mackie is drought tolerant and cannot be damaged by deer.

It is impressive, but a flaw is its habit of suddenly dying without a probable reason.

Another thing, they are weak against snow, and the damages can be fatal to the Daphne.

Quick Facts

Related post: 10 Stunning Yellow Shrubs To Add To Your Landscaping

12. Camellia (Camellia Japonica)

Size

Maybe one of the most popular evergreens, Camellia shrubs grow best in cold climates.

It is a winter-hardy plant that can tolerate temperatures limited to 10 degrees F.

The cold temperatures of fall and winter can promote its flowering.

Flowers in bloom may be white, pink, red, yellow, and lavender; the leaves are oval and glossy green.

Camellias are not very flexible to change of environment.

Some other plants may be brought in and out of the house but not Camellias.

They prefer a bright spot in dappled sunlight and a wide area where it can freely spread.

It will require protection from the direct heat of the afternoon sun and strong winds too.

In terms of soil, it likes a moist acidic one that is well fertilized. As for drainage, it prefers soil that drains well.

Camellias are not okay where standing water is though it enjoys moist soil.

In reality, this plant has shallow roots and will benefit from mulching.

Camellias are native to China, Korea, and Japan.

Quick Facts

FAQs

Are All The Evergreen Shrubs I Should Plant Green?

No, some plants are blue, red, or purple. The choice is yours. However, you should carefully study your landscape to match it before deciding on the plant variety.

What Should Be The Distance Between My Plants And My House?

Some plants spread wide, considering their growth span. Ideally, plant the shrub 5 feet from the house.

How Are Shrubs Propagated?

Depending on the species of the shrub, you may start from seeds or through division. You can buy them in stores in containers too.

What Is The Growth Rate Of Shrubs?

There slow or fast growers. Shrubs that have a rapid growth rate mature in a month. The slower ones can take years.

How Long Does An Evergreen Shrub Live?

Evergreens have a generally long lifespan. It can take 10 or more years. Conifers can live up to 100 years!

Related post: 3 Simple Ways on How To Propagate Landscaping Bamboo Plants

Conclusion

Shrubs can be the good front liners in your yard.

They can be trimmed handsomely too. Make sure your hedge trimmer blades are sharp, as it will make your landscaping job a lot easier.

If you like all-year colors, evergreen shrubs are the ones you need.

Always follow their care facts, and you’ll see yourself enticed by how beautiful your front landscape can be.

Also, know your zone so you won’t waste your time cultivating a plant that won’t thrive.

You also want to consider their growth spans on how long the evergreen shrub will live.

Evergreen shrubs for the front of your house are a classic and modern design that will never go out of style.

Lindsey Hyland

Lindsey Hyland grew up in Arizona where she studied at the University of Arizona’s Controlled Environment Agriculture Center. She continued her gardening education by working on organic farms in both rural and urban settings. She started UrbanOrganicYield.com to share gardening tips and tactics. She’s happy to talk about succulents and houseplants or vegetables and herbs – or just about anything in a backyard garden or hydroponics garden.

Evergreens for decorating the adjacent territory 0 Comments

In summer, the local area pleases us with a riot of colors and a variety of flowers. However, in winter, the plants fall asleep, and only the sad bare skeletons of once flowering trees remain on the site. A rather dull picture that can spoil an already rosy mood.

If the monotony of gray and white colors in late autumn and winter bores you, it is worth planting evergreens near the house. This is a win-win. In summer, they will create a life-giving shadow and set off a riot of colors in the flower beds, and in winter they will brighten up a monotonous landscape.

Types of evergreens

Very often, when it comes to evergreens, proud pines and reservedly gloomy spruces appear before our eyes. And, indeed, the most famous of the representatives of this flora are conifers. These are mostly trees and shrubs. However, not all of them are covered with needles; within the department of coniferous plants, there are also representatives with ordinary leaves, like berries or bright flowers.

There is another variety - winter green crops. They shed their leaves once a year, only they do it not in the fall, but in the spring, when new shoots appear. In winter, their crown remains green. This group includes mainly shrubs and perennial herbs.

You can decorate the garden with representatives of both groups or choose from one of them. Evergreens are less whimsical and adapt well to any conditions. Wintergreen crops are usually more demanding on the composition of the soil, lighting and watering.

The best evergreens for the garden

Conifers are evergreen species whose seeds develop in cones. Most often, the following representatives of this department are planted on the plot.

Wintergreens

Wintergreens are mainly low-growing shrubs and grasses that will be hidden under the snow in winter. However, there are quite respectable representatives in this list, for example:

As for winter-green grasses and low-growing shrubs, they simply need snow cover to maintain a decorative look. Therefore, in winter, it will not be possible to admire them. But in early spring, they will delight you with rich greenery on a still half-empty site. You can plant near the house.

And this is not a complete list of evergreen and winter green plants. If you wish, you can pick up a wide variety of species and varieties that will amaze your neighbors with their greenery all year round. For example, one of these exotic plants can become young. Although according to the classification it does not belong to any of the groups, it may not lose its decorative appearance throughout the year.

Try your own evergreen group and your garden will be transformed.

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list of plants for garden landscaping

When choosing evergreens for the garden, most prefer needles. There is nothing surprising in this, because coniferous plants retain their appearance for a long time, they are easy to cut, so they are perfect for creating hedges or “living” sculptures. However, needles are not the only crop that can please the eye in winter, because there are many horticultural crops that perfectly tolerate even severe frosts.

Evergreens adorn our gardens in any season, at any time of the year

Evergreens in landscape design

Western

  • Yew
  • Cedar
  • Hem
  • Juniper
  • Cypress
  • Deciduous trees and shrubs – description with photo

    The most spectacular garden compositions are based on a harmonious combination of various forms of evergreens

    Winter-hardy plants are planted not only in open areas, but also in flowerbeds and flower beds. Evergreens are combined with many annual or perennial crops. In flowerbeds, it is better to plant them in such a way that they act as the main decoration of the created composition. This is important, because otherwise they will not be noticeable against the background of those plants that “fall asleep” for the winter.

    Evergreens can improve the microclimate. Such cultures relieve the site of monotony, go well with other garden crops.

    Coniferous evergreen trees and shrubs - description with photo

    The choice of evergreens is very rich. Among them are not only conifers, but also evergreen deciduous shrubs and trees. Different in size, growth rate and height, evergreen crops will be appropriate not only in large areas. Low-growing varieties are no less popular, especially when the size of the plot does not allow planting other types of crops. The list of evergreen conifers is long, consider the most common.

    When choosing conifers, you should pay attention to the most unpretentious plants that do not require special care.

    The popularity rating among conifers is headed by spruce

    Pine

    Despite the dense crown, pines begin to thin out over time. The trunk of the tree is quite long, and the bark has a dark brown tint. As a rule, there are no problems with pruning, only the crown is given the desired shape in the summer, until the movement of the juice has stopped. To obtain side shoots, pinching is carried out in the spring. It is not recommended to choose pine trees for making a hedge, as they thin out, which can ruin the entire composition as a whole.

    Pines are drought tolerant and thrive on poor sandy soils

    Mountain pine with a squat crown is often planted on alpine hills. Thanks to a large selection of varieties and a variety of decorative forms, arborvitae today can be found in almost every landscape project.

    Western thuja does not do well as an ornamental shrub and natural hedge

    Along with tall thujas, there are low-growing and spherical plants. The latter grows well in the shade of tall trees

    Thuja occidentalis is the best suited for creating a green hedge. It grows rapidly and after 3-4 years allows you to get a full-fledged "live" fence.

    Since the thuja has a shallow root system, it can be transplanted at any time of the year. However, the ideal period for this would be spring. You need to know that thuja does not grow quickly in order to get an even crown, it needs uniform lighting.

    Yew

    This plant can rightfully be called a long-liver among evergreen crops. The tree has been growing for three millennia. It is characterized by rich green needles, as well as small red cones. Yew loves the shade, so a site where there is not enough sun will be an ideal place for him.

    Yew is the leader among conifers in terms of shade tolerance and unpretentiousness to the soil

    Bark, needles and cones contain toxic substances, it is strictly forbidden to eat them. Wash your hands thoroughly after completing the work.

    The yew is easy to cut, which makes it possible to give it absolutely any shape.

    Cedar

    Like other conifers, cedar is decorative all year round. Of course, this is a real decoration of the site, because its bright green branches look especially beautiful against the backdrop of white snow.

    Siberian and European cedar are distinguished. The first is more suitable for mild climates, the second can easily withstand the most severe frosts

    Cedar is considered an unpretentious plant, its stem is small but powerful. In height, the tree can reach 40 m, and its diameter is about 2 m.

    Despite its impressive size, this evergreen tree will look good not only on a large plot. A free-standing cedar will also become a real decoration of even a compact area.

    Hem

    This is a small evergreen tree from the pine family. Despite the fact that hemlock is a short tree, this evergreen plant attracts attention with its beautiful wide crown. In landscape design, hemlock is often chosen if it is necessary to add zest to a rocky area.

    Canadian Hemlock has a weeping crown shape and prefers moist, fertile soils

    Even in a small area, this conifer will look great. Hemlock can be planted both separately and together with other conifers.

    Many people make the mistake of planting conifers too close together. Despite its large growth, hemlock takes a lot of nutrients from the ground. It's worth considering!

    Juniper

    There are coniferous plants that have both shrub and tree forms. Juniper is one of them. Its height can reach 3 m, but the tree can grow up to 12 m. The bark of seedlings is mostly reddish-brown in color, in an adult plant it is brown in color.

    Junipers grow well both in sun and partial shade. The photo shows a spectacular composition of juniper and fern

    Rocky junipers look great as single compositions

    The needles of the juniper are in pairs, between the conifers you can see large cones that look like berries. Ephedra can be planted together with other ornamental plants, such as tapeworm. Juniper fits perfectly into various styles of landscape design. It is planted in flower beds, lawns are filled with it, and the conifer also looks great as a hedge.

    Cypress

    When planting cypress on the site, you should know that this conifer does not like shade. Otherwise, the tree is unpretentious, can be planted on any soil, easily tolerate drought. Separately, it is worth highlighting the types of cypress that have a pyramidal and curved crown. Very often, a monumental cypress can be seen on the territory of sanatoriums and recreation centers.

    Cypress - a resident of the southern regions and does not tolerate severe frosts

    Deciduous trees and shrubs - description with photo

    Evergreen deciduous trees and shrubs native to tropical countries, most of them require warmth. Consider the most popular types.

    Boxwood

    This is a small tree, rarely exceeding 10-12 m in height, the leaves are small and dense. In the axils of the leaflets you can see small white flowers forming a spikelet. Boxwood is ideal for framing roads, and thanks to easy pruning, the tree can be given a variety of shapes. However, it grows rather slowly.

    Boxwood is often recommended for beginners, because it is extremely difficult to ruin it by negligence. The plant is not afraid of both short-term drought and waterlogging of the soil

    Guayacum

    This is a low plant (6-10 m) with a diameter of 0.7 m. The tree has many curved branches that form a dome shape. The leaves are a rich green hue, leathery dense. Guayacum is unpretentious, tolerates drought well, and can be planted on any soil.

    Guaiac tree is cultivated for ornamental and medicinal purposes

    Laurel

    A low tree with dense glossy leaves that have a pleasant aroma. All parts of the laurel contain essential oils. The flowers are small, the fruits are similar to berries.

    Laurels are ideal for shearing, suitable for creating hedges and garden compositions of the most diverse forms. The leaves are dark green in color. Inflorescences in diameter no more than 6 cm. This is a heat-loving plant, all year round in open areas can only be located in the south, where the air temperature does not fall below + 8 degrees.

    Oleander is used as a specimen, in group plantings, when decorating alleys, stairs and terraces

    Star anise

    Evergreen shrub that can grow up to 15 m in height. Leaves are dense, their length reaches 15 cm. Flowers come in different shades: burgundy , red, yellow. Star-shaped fruits. The plant is unpretentious, but prefers partial shade. To form a beautiful bush, it is regularly pruned.

    Star anise prefers partial shade, blooms from March to May

    Camellia

    This evergreen shrub will make a spectacular addition to any garden. Dark green foliage retains its appearance throughout the year. Camellia flowers, which are very similar to roses, come in different shades: red, white, pink. Due to the rapid development, the shrub will embellish the site in a short time.

    Blooming camellia brightens up every corner of the garden

    Japanese camellia often used as a hedge

    Ivy

    With this climbing plant, you can create amazing compositions that will transform any site. The plant is tall, grows up to 30 m. More often, common ivy or the Hedera helix species is used in landscape design. Another famous species is Hedera colchica. Ivy has large leaves (up to 25 cm) of green, yellow color, and brown color is also found. In autumn you can see umbrella-shaped inflorescences, in spring black berries appear.

    Many landscapers choose ivy for vertical gardening

    Fences, terraces and balconies are often decorated with this evergreen creeper

    Holly

    Holly leaves are dense with teeth on the edges, saturated green. The plant also ripens berries, which come in different shades: black, white, yellow, red. Among the decorative forms, it is worth highlighting the common holly, which has a domed shape. The culture is not demanding, it makes excellent hedges. Planted singly or in groups with other plants.

    Bright holly berries remain on the branches until spring

    Olive

    Deciduous shrub resembling a small tree. It reaches a height of 2-4 m, the branches are grayish-brown in color, on the shoots there are spines 5 cm long. The foliage is silvery in color and has an ovoid shape.

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