Large Shrubs

There is a wide variety of large shrubs that you can plant on your landscape. Large shrubs can be used as potential ground covers, or as a makeshift fence along the outskirts of your property, as many of the species grow very thick.

Types of Large Shrubs

While your landscape design professional is the best source of information on large shrubs that are likely to thrive in your area, you may want to consider the following popular varieties of large shrubs:

One type of large shrub is called a Viburnum. The Viburnum is a very popular landscape plant since there are over 150 species; you can find one suitable for any of your garden needs, whether your garden is wet or dry. Their blossom peaks run from around mid-February through late June and are preceded by a growth of very vibrant fruit and underbrush. Most viburnums flourish in direct sunlight but they are capable of adjusting to partial shade. They seem to grow better in a lush soil, but can be grown just about anywhere. One reason this is such a popular shrub is its ability to keep away most of the insect pests that are out there. When picking out a viburnum, try to find a younger plant because these species are very hard to transplant once matured. If they are being transplanted though, make sure it's in early springtime, to give them a full season of growth under their belt.

A second type of large shrub is a Hydrangea. There exists about 70 different species, some of which are native to the South Pacific, as well as to parts of North and South America. Most of these shrubs are anywhere from one to three meters in height, and they can be either deciduous or evergreens, though many of the species native to the tropics are deciduous. There are different types of flowers produced by hydrangeas. Mophead flowers are big flowers that resemble the head of a mop, hence the name. The other type, lacecap flowers, give off flattened flowers with a center of flowers flanked by rings of fluffy flowers. These flowers bloom from early March through mid October.

Another of the more popular large shrubs is the Cherry laurel. Many cherry trees are popular in yards of American homeowners. Many are grown strictly for the fruit they produce, but others are appreciated for their unique features. The fruit is poisonous to some animals, and is one of the few shrubs deer will not forage on. The trees themselves can grow up to 25 feet tall, and 15 to 20 feet wide. These shrubs have evergreen foliage, with leaflets anywhere from 4 to 7 inches long, and 2 inches wide, featuring white flowers with a pungent smell.

Ask your landscaper designer to see pictures of these or other large shrubs so you can find the best option for your garden.