Pyracantha is an evergreen shrub known for its colorful berries in the fall and winter. Most varieties grow to about twelve feet, although there are some outstanding dwarf varieties such as ‘Red Elf’ and ‘Lowboy’. The biggest drawback is the sharp thorns that cover the branches, but the plants are long-lived and the berries brighten up the garden in winter as well as being very popular with birds.
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.
This plant, commonly called oleander, is a beautiful shrub that can range in size from three to twenty feet, depending upon the variety. ‘Sister Agnes’ is white and can grow to twenty feet. ‘Little Red’ grows from three to four feet and makes a nice informal hedge. Oleanders need little water once established. The primary…
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.
Philadelphus is an old fashioned shrub with wonderfully fragrant white blossoms. It is a deciduous shrub growing four to six feet tall, making it a very good foundation plant. It is also very effective in lawns and as a background plant. Shade in the afternoon is preferred and good drainage is essential.
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…
Rhamnus alaternus and Rhamnus alaternus variegata(Italian Buckthorn) These shrubs grow twelve to fifteen feet high. They are evergreen and very dought tolerant once established. They can be pruned regularly to maintain a neat appearance.