We all know the term ‘shrubs’, but how they actually defined? A shrub is defined as a woody plant which is smaller than a tree and has several main stems growing from ground level and having a generally rounded shape. They vary in size from ground cover right up to huge shrubs which make a bold statement.
Shrubs are an integral part of any garden whatever the size. You can always find a suitable shrub for any situation or soil condition, no matter how large or small, to provide structure, colour and interest and they also provide wonderful character to the garden.
Evergreens
There are many evergreen shrubs for year round interest in the garden. Popular evergreens are Rhododendron, Azalea, Pieris, Camellia, Hebe, Euonymus, Eleagnus or Skimmia. Many evergreen shrubs will come into flower at different times of the year but you will always be able to enjoy their permanent colour and structure throughout the year.
Low growing
For smaller gardens or to punctuate the front of a border you can plant low growing shrubs such as Spirea and Caryopteris, which can both be acquired in different varieties. Buxus or Box is an excellent structural shrub which can be trained into shape. Lavendar, Gaultheria and Euonymus also make great low growing shrubs.
Flowering
Some popular medium sized flowering shrubs for the garden include Forsythia, Hydrangea, Shrub Roses, Azalea, Buddleia, Deutzia, Cistus and Viburnum.
Large
Whatever size of garden, large shrubs will always make a statement, whether it’s a specimen plant for a small to medium sized garden or several large shrubs growing together making a ‘Shrubbery’ in a larger garden. Rhododendron, Mahonia, Elaeagnus, Camellia, Hypericum and Photinia can all reach a good height to give impact and provide a focal point to the garden. Many of these provide spectacular blooms attracting insects and envy from neighbours!
Shade
For that shady part of the garden you could choose from evergreens such as Cotoneaster, Berberis, Aucuba, Skimmia or Fatsia Japonica. Flowering shade-lovers include Camellia, Azalea, Heuchera and Epimedium. A great ground cover and weed suppressing shrub for a shady bed is a variegated Vinca or Periwinkle, which has pale purple flowers in spring.
Fragrance
And finally, to add a sensory dimension to your garden there are several fragrant shrubs to choose from: Daphne, Lavender, Osmanthus, Myrtle, Escallonia, Ribes, Buddleia, Lilac and Philadelphus or Mock Orange are all beautifully scented plants which will enhance the pleasure of your garden.
Why not purchase some great shrubs for your garden
