Eleagnus ‘Gilt Edge’

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….

Both E. fortunei and E. japonicus have variegated varieties that brighten up the garden with their foliage.  Height ranges from about three to ten feet, depending on the variety.  Moderate to regular water is required.

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…

Usually grown as a shrub or small tree, Vitex (chaste tree) reaches about twelve feet tall and wide.  The very attractive leaves are divided into five to seven leaflets and are a grey green.  The flower spikes appear in summer and are usually purple, although white is also available.  The plant is deciduous and can…

Cistus (rockrose) These are understandably popular in the North County. Some outstanding characteristics include drought tolerance, relative deer resistance and a prolific spring bloom. Flower colors are white and many shades of pink. The lowest growing variety is Cistus salvifolius, a white flowered variety that grows two by six feet. Cistus ‘Sunset’ is a hybrid with…

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.