Lagerstroemia

Abelia grandiflora has arching stems six to eight feet tall and produces large numbers of small white or pink bell-shaped flowers in summer. The variety ‘Sherwoodii’ is three to four feet tall and has lavender flowers and darker green leaves.  ‘Kaleidoscope’ is only two to three feet tall with yellow variegated foliage and white flowers in summer. The leaf color tends to redden…

The most commonly available species is Caryopteris x clandonensis.  There are several named varieties, all of which grow to about two feet.  They are known for their lovely purple flowers, much loved by bees.  Caryopteris loses its leaves in winter, prefers full sun and moderate water.

Syringa (lilac) is loved for its wonderful fragrance and glorious, showy blooms.  Lilacs are a good match for our north county climate as the low winter temperatures encourage blooming.  In the south county, grow the Descanso hybrids such as ‘Lavender Lady’ and ‘Angel White’ which have been bred for warmer climates. An unusual and charming lilac, a Korean type, is ‘Miss Kim’.  This…

Commonly called butterfly bush, buddleja can reach fifteen feet and flowers in shades of purple, lavender, pink, white or yellow.  It is also available in an increasing number of dwarf varieties, most of which grow to three to five feet.  The flowers are a favorite of butterflies, hence the common name.  All the Buddlejas perform best if they are pruned severely…

Hibiscus syriacus, or Rose of Sharon, is a deciduous shrub that grows to about ten feet tall and six feet wide.  It sports very showy, two to three inch flowers from summer until frost.  It is easy to grow, actually likes heat and can tolerate some drought.  Flower colors include white, pink, red and shades of purple….

This is an evergreen shrub that adds color all year round.  It can reach up to ten feet and has an upright growth habit  It can take sun or partial shade and does best with regular water.