Evergreen Shrubs
Podocarpus Macrophyllus (Japanese Yew)
Botanical Name: Podocarpus macrophyllus
Description: Evergreen shrub with dark green, needle-like leaves; non-flowering and does not produce a notable fragrance.
Sun Exposure: Full Sun to Partial Shade
Soil Type: Well-drained, sandy, or loamy soils, fertilize with 10-10-10 NPK
Soil pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (5.5-7.0)
Mature Size: 15-20 ft. tall x 6-8 ft. wide
Planting Distance: 2-4 ft.
Caring:
- Pruning: Prune lightly in January–February to maintain shape.
- Watering: Moderate watering; allow soil to dry slightly between waterings. Drought-tolerant once established.
Gardenia Jasminoides 'August Beauty'
Botanical Name: Gardenia jasminoides 'August Beauty'
Description: Evergreen shrub with glossy, dark green leaves; produces fragrant white flowers from May to September.
Sun Exposure: Full Sun to Partial Shade
Soil Type: Well-drained, acidic, and rich in organic matter, fertilize with 10-10-10 NPK
Soil pH: Acidic (5.0-6.5)
Mature Size: 4-6 ft. tall x 3-4 ft. wide
Planting Distance: 3-4 ft.
Caring:
- Pruning: Prune after flowering to maintain shape and encourage new growth.
- Watering: Regular watering, keeping the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Drought-tolerant once established.
Gardenia Jasminoides 'Frostproof'
Botanical Name: Gardenia jasminoides 'Frostproof'
Description: Evergreen shrub with glossy, dark green leaves; produces highly fragrant white flowers from May to June.
Sun Exposure: Full Sun to Partial Shade
Soil Type: Well-drained, acidic, and rich in organic matter, fertilize with 10-10-10 NPK
Soil pH: Acidic (5.0-6.5)
Mature Size: 3-4 ft. tall x 3-4 ft. wide
Planting Distance: 3-4 ft.
Caring:
- Pruning: Prune after flowering to maintain shape and encourage new growth.
- Watering: Regular watering, keeping the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Drought-tolerant once established.
Italian Cypress
Botanical Name: Cupressus sempervirens
Description: Tall, narrow evergreen tree with dark green, scale-like leaves; produces inconspicuous, small cones.
Sun Exposure: Full Sun
Soil Type: Well-drained, sandy or loamy soils, fertilize with 10-10-10 NPK
Soil pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0-7.5)
Mature Size: 40-60 ft. tall x 4-6 ft. wide
Planting Distance: 5-10 ft. but ideal planted as single
Caring:
- Pruning: Light pruning to maintain shape and remove any dead or damaged branches; best done in early spring.
- Watering: Water regularly until established; drought-tolerant once mature.
Japanese Boxwood Wintergreen
Botanical Name: Buxus microphylla var. japonica 'Wintergreen'
Description: Evergreen shrub with small, glossy, dark green leaves; no notable flowers.
Sun Exposure: Full Sun to Partial Shade
Soil Type: Well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soils, fertilize with 10-10-10 NPK
Soil pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0-7.5)
Mature Size: 2-3 ft. tall x 3-4 ft. wide
Planting Distance: 2-3 ft.
Caring:
- Pruning: Prune annually to maintain shape; best done in late winter or early spring.
- Watering: Regular watering, especially during dry spells; drought-tolerant once established.
Juniper Spartan
Botanical Name: Juniperus chinensis 'Spartan'
Description: Evergreen shrub with dense, upright, pyramid-shaped growth and dark green to blue-green needle-like foliage; produces small, bluish berries in fall.
Sun Exposure: Full Sun
Soil Type: Well-drained, sandy, or loamy soils, fertilize with 10-10-10 NPK
Soil pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0-7.5)
Mature Size: 15-20 ft. tall x 4-6 ft. wide
Planting Distance: 4-6 ft. but ideal planted as single
Caring:
- Pruning: Light pruning to maintain shape; prune in early spring before new growth begins.
- Watering: Water moderately, allowing soil to dry between waterings; drought-tolerant once established.
Ligustrum 'Jack Frost'
Botanical Name: Ligustrum japonicum 'Jack Frost'
Description: Evergreen shrub with glossy, dark green leaves and white, fragrant flowers in late spring to early summer, followed by small, black berries.
Sun Exposure: Full Sun to Partial Shade
Soil Type: Well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soils, fertilize with 10-10-10 NPK
Soil pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0-7.5)
Mature Size: 4-6 ft. tall x 4-5 ft. wide
Planting Distance: 2-4 ft.
Caring:
- Pruning: Prune annually to maintain shape and remove any dead or damaged branches; best done after flowering.
Ligustrum 'Waxleaf'
Botanical Name: Ligustrum lucidum
Description: Evergreen shrub with glossy, dark green, lance-shaped leaves; produces fragrant white flowers in late spring to early summer, followed by small, black berries.
Sun Exposure: Full Sun to Partial Shade
Soil Type: Well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soils, fertilize with 10-10-10 NPK
Soil pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0-7.5)
Mature Size: 10-12 ft. tall x 8-10 ft. wide
Planting Distance: 3-5 ft.
Caring:
- Pruning: Prune to maintain shape or to reduce size; best done after flowering in late summer.
- Watering: Water regularly until established; drought-tolerant once mature.
Loropetalum 'Ruby'
Botanical Name: Loropetalum chinense 'Ruby'
Description: Evergreen shrub with deep burgundy leaves and vibrant pink, spidery flowers that bloom from early spring to early summer.
Sun Exposure: Full Sun to Partial Shade
Soil Type: Well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soils, fertilize with 10-10-10 NPK
Soil pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0-7.5)
Mature Size: 3-5 ft. tall x 3-4 ft. wide
Planting Distance: 2-4 ft.
Caring:
- Pruning: Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape and remove dead or damaged branches.
- Watering: Water regularly during dry periods; drought-tolerant once established.
Sky Pencil Japanese Holly
Botanical Name: Ilex crenata 'Sky Pencil'
Description: Narrow, upright, columnar evergreen shrub with dark green, glossy leaves; produces small, inconspicuous white flowers in spring, followed by black berries.
Sun Exposure: Full Sun to Partial Shade
Soil Type: Well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soils, fertilize with 10-10-10 NPK
Soil pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0-7.5)
Mature Size: 4-6 ft. tall x 1-2 ft. wide
Planting Distance: 1-2 ft. but ideal planted as single
Caring:
- Pruning: Minimal pruning required; shape as needed in late winter or early spring.
- Watering: Water regularly until established; drought-tolerant once mature.
Sweet Viburnum
Botanical Name: Viburnum odoratissimum
Description: Evergreen shrub with glossy, dark green leaves and clusters of white, fragrant flowers that bloom in spring to early summer, followed by red to black berries.
Sun Exposure: Full Sun to Partial Shade
Soil Type: Well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soils, fertilize with 10-10-10 NPK
Soil pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0-7.5)
Mature Size: 6-12 ft. tall x 5-6 ft. wide
Planting Distance: 4-6 ft.
Caring:
- Pruning: Prune to shape or reduce size, typically after flowering in late spring.
- Watering: Water regularly until established; drought-tolerant once mature.
Wax Myrtle
Botanical Name: Myrica cerifera
Description: Evergreen shrub with aromatic, dark green leaves; produces small, inconspicuous yellow-green flowers in spring, followed by blue-gray berries in fall.
Sun Exposure: Full Sun to Partial Shade
Soil Type: Well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soils, fertilize with 10-10-10 NPK
Soil pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (5.5-7.0)
Mature Size: 10-15 ft. tall x 8-10 ft. wide
Planting Distance: 5-8 ft.
Caring:
- Pruning: Prune to maintain shape or reduce size; best done after flowering in late spring.
- Watering: Water moderately; drought-tolerant once established.
Flowering Shrubs
Azalea 'Fashion'
Botanical Name: Rhododendron 'Fashion'
Description: A compact, evergreen azalea with bright pink flowers that bloom in early spring. Ideal for borders or mass plantings.
Sun Exposure: Partial Shade to Full Shade
Soil Type: Acidic, well-drained soils, fertilize with 10-10-10 NPK
Soil pH: Acidic (5.0-5.5)
Mature Size: 2-3 ft. tall x 2-3 ft. wide
Planting Distance: 2-3 ft.
Caring:
- Pruning: Prune after flowering to shape and remove spent blooms.
- Watering: Keep soil moist but not soggy; drought-tolerant once established.
Azalea 'Formosa'
Botanical Name: Rhododendron 'Formosa'
Description: An evergreen azalea with large, vivid pink flowers in late spring, providing a striking display of color.
Sun Exposure: Partial Shade
Soil Type: Acidic, well-drained soils, fertilize with 10-10-10 NPK
Soil pH: Acidic (5.0-5.5)
Mature Size: 4-6 ft. tall x 4-6 ft. wide
Planting Distance: 3-4 ft.
Caring:
- Pruning: Prune after flowering to maintain size and shape.
- Watering: Keep soil moist, especially during dry spells; drought-tolerant once established.
Azalea 'G.G. Gerbing'
Botanical Name: Rhododendron 'G.G. Gerbing'
Description: A vibrant evergreen azalea with deep pink, ruffled flowers that bloom in late winter to early spring, perfect for cool-season color.
Sun Exposure: Partial Shade to Full Shade
Soil Type: Acidic, well-drained soils, fertilize with 10-10-10 NPK
Soil pH: Acidic (5.0-5.5)
Mature Size: 3-4 ft. tall x 3-4 ft. wide
Planting Distance: 3-4 ft.
Caring:
- Pruning: Prune after flowering to maintain shape and encourage new growth.
- Watering: Water regularly to maintain consistent moisture; drought-tolerant once established.
Jasmine 'Confederate'
Botanical Name: Jasminum grandiflorum
Description: A fragrant, deciduous shrub with white, star-shaped flowers that bloom in late spring to summer. Popular for its strong, sweet scent.
Sun Exposure: Full Sun to Partial Shade
Soil Type: Well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soils, fertilize with 10-10-10 NPK
Soil pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0-7.0)
Mature Size: 6-10 ft. tall x 5-6 ft. wide
Planting Distance: 5-6 ft.
Caring:
- Pruning: Prune after flowering to maintain shape and encourage new growth.
- Watering: Water regularly, especially during dry periods; drought-tolerant once mature.
Grasses & Groundcovers
Asiatic Jasmine Minima
Botanical Name: Trachelospermum asiaticum 'Minima'
Description: A low-growing, evergreen groundcover with glossy, dark green leaves and small, fragrant white flowers in late spring to summer. It forms a dense mat and is ideal for covering large areas.
Sun Exposure: Full Sun to Partial Shade
Soil Type: Well-drained, moderately acidic soils, fertilize with 10-10-10 NPK
Soil pH: Slightly acidic (6.0-6.5)
Mature Size: 6-8 inches tall x 4-6 ft. wide (spreads rapidly)
Planting Distance: 2-3 ft.
Caring:
- Pruning: Trim back in late winter to early spring to maintain neatness.
- Watering: Water regularly until established; drought-tolerant once mature.
Blue Daze - Blue My Mind®
Botanical Name: Evolvulus glomeratus 'Blue My Mind'
Description: A compact, trailing groundcover with vibrant blue, funnel-shaped flowers that bloom throughout the warm months. Ideal for hanging baskets or as a spreading groundcover.
Sun Exposure: Full Sun
Soil Type: Well-drained, sandy or loamy soils, fertilize with 10-10-10 NPK
Soil pH: Neutral to slightly acidic (6.0-7.0)
Mature Size: 6-12 inches tall x 2-3 ft. wide
Planting Distance: 1-2 ft.
Caring:
- Pruning: Trim back lightly after flowering to maintain compactness.
- Watering: Water regularly until established; drought-tolerant once mature.
Firecracker Red
Botanical Name: Russelia equisetiformis
Description: A spreading groundcover with red tubular flowers that bloom in spring through fall, attracting hummingbirds. It forms a dense mat and is often used for groundcover or hanging baskets.
Sun Exposure: Full Sun to Partial Shade
Soil Type: Well-drained, sandy or loamy soils, fertilize with 10-10-10 NPK
Soil pH: Neutral to slightly acidic (6.0-7.0)
Mature Size: 1-2 ft. tall x 2-3 ft. wide
Planting Distance: 2-3 ft.
Caring:
- Pruning: Trim back in late winter to early spring to promote new growth.
- Watering: Water regularly until established; drought-tolerant once mature.
Liriope Aztec (Muscari)
Botanical Name: Liriope muscari 'Aztec'
Description: An ornamental grass-like groundcover with green foliage and lavender flower spikes in late summer to fall. It’s a low-maintenance option for borders or underplantings.
Sun Exposure: Full Sun to Partial Shade
Soil Type: Well-drained, slightly acidic soils, fertilize with 10-10-10 NPK
Soil pH: Slightly acidic (6.0-6.5)
Mature Size: 12-18 inches tall x 18-24 inches wide
Planting Distance: 1-2 ft.
Caring:
- Pruning: Cut back dead foliage in late winter or early spring.
- Watering: Water regularly until established; drought-tolerant once mature.
Liriope Mondo 'Nanus'
Botanical Name: Liriope spicata 'Nanus'
Description: A dwarf variety of liriope with narrow, dark green foliage and lavender flower spikes in late summer. It’s a great groundcover for small spaces or as a border plant.
Sun Exposure: Full Sun to Partial Shade
Soil Type: Well-drained, slightly acidic soils, fertilize with 10-10-10 NPK
Soil pH: Slightly acidic (6.0-6.5)
Mature Size: 6-8 inches tall x 12-18 inches wide
Planting Distance: 6-12 inches
Caring:
- Pruning: Trim back foliage in late winter or early spring.
- Watering: Water regularly until established; drought-tolerant once mature.
Muhly Pink Grass
Botanical Name: Muhlenbergia capillaris
Description: A perennial grass known for its airy pink-purple flower plumes that appear in late summer to fall. It adds a soft texture to landscapes and is ideal for borders or mass plantings.
Sun Exposure: Full Sun
Soil Type: Well-drained, sandy or loamy soils, fertilize with 10-10-10 NPK
Soil pH: Neutral to slightly acidic (6.0-7.0)
Mature Size: 3-4 ft. tall x 3-4 ft. wide
Planting Distance: 2-3 ft.
Caring:
- Pruning: Cut back dead growth in late winter.
- Watering: Water regularly until established; drought-tolerant once mature.
Tropical Shrubs
Cordyline Ti Red Sister
Botanical Name: Cordyline fruticosa 'Red Sister'
Description: A striking tropical shrub with vibrant, multicolored foliage in shades of red, pink, and green. It’s known for its bold color contrast and adds dramatic flair to any landscape.
Sun Exposure: Full Sun to Partial Shade
Soil Type: Well-drained, slightly acidic soils, fertilize with 10-10-10 NPK
Soil pH: Slightly acidic (6.0-6.5)
Mature Size: 4-6 ft. tall x 2-3 ft. wide
Planting Distance: 2-3 ft.
Caring:
- Pruning: Prune lightly to maintain shape and remove dead or damaged leaves.
- Watering: Water regularly until established; drought-tolerant once mature.
Croton 'Mammy'
Botanical Name: Codiaeum variegatum 'Mammy'
Description: A colorful tropical shrub known for its bold, variegated leaves with shades of yellow, red, orange, and green. The compact form and vibrant colors make it a striking addition to any garden or container.
Sun Exposure: Full Sun to Partial Shade
Soil Type: Well-drained, slightly acidic soils, fertilize with 10-10-10 NPK
Soil pH: Slightly acidic (6.0-6.5)
Mature Size: 2-3 ft. tall x 2-3 ft. wide
Planting Distance: 2-3 ft.
Caring:
- Pruning: Prune to shape and remove any dead or damaged leaves.
- Watering: Water regularly until established; drought-tolerant once mature.
Croton 'Petra'
Botanical Name: Codiaeum variegatum 'Petra'
Description: A striking tropical shrub with large, glossy leaves that are variegated in shades of green, yellow, red, and orange. This plant adds bold color and texture to landscapes, often used as a focal point or in containers.
Sun Exposure: Full Sun to Partial Shade
Soil Type: Well-drained, slightly acidic soils, fertilize with 10-10-10 NPK
Soil pH: Slightly acidic (6.0-6.5)
Mature Size: 3-5 ft. tall x 3-4 ft. wide
Planting Distance: 3-4 ft.
Caring:
- Pruning: Prune to shape and remove dead or damaged leaves.
- Watering: Water regularly until established; drought-tolerant once mature.
Firebush 'Firefly'
Botanical Name: Hamelia patens 'Firefly'
Description: A compact variety of the native Firebush, known for its vibrant red-orange tubular flowers that attract hummingbirds and butterflies. This shrub has a dense, bushy habit and is perfect for smaller spaces.
Sun Exposure: Full Sun to Partial Shade
Soil Type: Well-drained, slightly acidic soils, fertilize with 10-10-10 NPK
Soil pH: Slightly acidic (6.0-6.5)
Mature Size: 3-6 ft. tall x 3-6 ft. wide
Planting Distance: 3-4 ft.
Caring:
- Pruning: Prune to maintain shape and remove spent flowers to encourage new blooms.
- Watering: Water regularly until established; drought-tolerant once mature.
Hibiscus 'President Red'
Botanical Name: Hibiscus rosa-sinensis 'President Red'
Description: A popular tropical shrub with large, vibrant red flowers that bloom throughout the year, attracting butterflies and hummingbirds. Its glossy, dark green foliage complements the striking flowers.
Sun Exposure: Full Sun
Soil Type: Well-drained, slightly acidic soils, fertilize with 10-10-10 NPK
Soil pH: Slightly acidic (6.0-6.5)
Mature Size: 4-6 ft. tall x 4-6 ft. wide
Planting Distance: 4-5 ft.
Caring:
- Pruning: Prune after blooming to maintain shape and encourage new growth.
- Watering: Water regularly, especially during dry periods; drought-tolerant once established.
Hibiscus 'Seminole Pink'
Botanical Name: Hibiscus rosa-sinensis 'Seminole Pink'
Description: A tropical shrub known for its stunning, soft pink flowers with a red center, blooming throughout the warm months. The plant has glossy green foliage, adding both beauty and a tropical feel to landscapes.
Sun Exposure: Full Sun
Soil Type: Well-drained, slightly acidic soils, fertilize with 10-10-10 NPK
Soil pH: Slightly acidic (6.0-6.5)
Mature Size: 4-6 ft. tall x 4-6 ft. wide
Planting Distance: 4-5 ft.
Caring:
- Pruning: Prune after blooming to shape the plant and encourage fresh growth.
- Watering: Water regularly, especially during dry spells; drought-tolerant once established.
Hibiscus 'Sunset Yellow'
Botanical Name: Hibiscus rosa-sinensis 'Sunset Yellow'
Description: This tropical shrub is known for its large, bright yellow flowers with a red center, creating a vibrant contrast. It blooms profusely throughout the summer, attracting butterflies and hummingbirds.
Sun Exposure: Full Sun
Soil Type: Well-drained, slightly acidic soils, fertilize with 10-10-10 NPK
Soil pH: Slightly acidic (6.0-6.5)
Mature Size: 4-6 ft. tall x 4-6 ft. wide
Planting Distance: 4-5 ft.
Caring:
- Pruning: Prune after blooming to maintain shape and encourage new growth.
- Watering: Water regularly, especially during dry periods; drought-tolerant once established.
Ixora 'Maui Red'
- Botanical Name: Ixora coccinea 'Maui Red'
Description: A compact, evergreen shrub known for its clusters of bright red flowers that bloom year-round in warmer climates, attracting butterflies and hummingbirds. It has glossy, dark green leaves, making it an excellent choice for hedges or as a specimen plant.
Sun Exposure: Full Sun to Partial Shade
Soil Type: Well-drained, slightly acidic soils, fertilize with 10-10-10 NPK
Soil pH: Slightly acidic (6.0-6.5)
Mature Size: 3-4 ft. tall x 3-4 ft. wide
Planting Distance: 2-3 ft.
Caring: - Pruning: Prune to maintain shape and remove dead flowers to encourage new blooms.
- Watering: Water regularly until established; drought-tolerant once mature.
Ixora 'Taiwanese Red'
Botanical Name: Ixora coccinea 'Taiwanese Red'
Description: A striking evergreen shrub known for its clusters of deep red flowers that bloom year-round in warmer climates. Its dense, glossy green foliage provides a vibrant backdrop to the fiery blooms, making it an excellent choice for borders or as a specimen plant.
Sun Exposure: Full Sun to Partial Shade
Soil Type: Well-drained, slightly acidic soils, fertilize with 10-10-10 NPK
Soil pH: Slightly acidic (6.0-6.5)
Mature Size: 3-4 ft. tall x 3-4 ft. wide
Planting Distance: 2-3 ft.
Caring:
Pruning: Prune to maintain shape and remove spent flowers to promote new growth.
Watering: Water regularly until established; drought-tolerant once mature.
Knock-Out® Red Rose Double
Botanical Name: Rosa 'Radrazz' (Knock-Out® Red Rose Double)
Description: A double-flowered variety of the popular Knock-Out® Rose, this shrub is known for its vibrant, deep red blooms that last from spring through fall. The flowers are striking and make a beautiful addition to any landscape. It is also highly resistant to diseases, making it low-maintenance.
Sun Exposure: Full Sun
Soil Type: Well-drained, slightly acidic soils, fertilize with 10-10-10 NPK
Soil pH: Slightly acidic (6.0-6.5)
Mature Size: 3-4 ft. tall x 3-4 ft. wide
Planting Distance: 2-3 ft.
Caring:
- Pruning: Prune in early spring to shape and remove dead wood. Remove spent blooms to encourage new flowers.
- Watering: Water regularly, especially during dry periods; drought-tolerant once established.
Plumbago 'Imperial Blue'
Botanical Name: Plumbago auriculata 'Imperial Blue'
Description: This striking shrub is known for its rich blue flowers that bloom profusely from spring to fall. The vibrant flowers are complemented by its glossy green foliage. It’s an excellent choice for hedges, borders, or as a container plant in warmer climates.
Sun Exposure: Full Sun to Partial Shade
Soil Type: Well-drained, slightly acidic soils, fertilize with 10-10-10 NPK
Soil pH: Slightly acidic (6.0-6.5)
Mature Size: 4-6 ft. tall x 4-6 ft. wide
Planting Distance: 3-4 ft.
Caring:
- Pruning: Prune lightly to shape after blooming. Remove dead or damaged stems to maintain a healthy structure.
- Watering: Water regularly until established; drought-tolerant once mature.
Trinette (Schefflera arboricola)
Botanical Name: Schefflera arboricola 'Trinette'
Description: This attractive shrub has variegated green and cream-colored leaves that provide a striking contrast in any landscape. It is a compact, low-maintenance plant that adds a tropical feel to the garden. It can be used in containers or as a hedge and is tolerant of various conditions.
Sun Exposure: Partial Shade to Full Shade
Soil Type: Well-drained, slightly acidic soils, fertilize with 10-10-10 NPK
Soil pH: Slightly acidic (6.0-6.5)
Mature Size: 3-5 ft. tall x 3-5 ft. wide
Planting Distance: 3-4 ft.
Caring:
- Pruning: Prune occasionally to maintain shape and remove any dead or damaged leaves.
- Watering: Water regularly, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings; drought-tolerant once established.