If you're looking for a way to add some greenery to your shady backyard, evergreen shrubs might be the perfect solution. These plants retain their leaves year-round, giving you a lush and vibrant look even in the wintertime. However, not all evergreen shrubs are created equal, and you'll need to be careful when selecting the right ones for your space. Here are five key points to consider when looking for evergreen shrubs for shade:
1. Light requirements: While evergreen shrubs are often associated with shade, not all of them can tolerate deep shade. Make sure you select a variety that can thrive in the amount of light you have available.
2. Size: Some evergreen shrubs can grow quite large, while others stay relatively small. Consider the size of your space and how much maintenance you're willing to do when selecting a shrub.
3. Soil requirements: Different evergreen shrubs have different soil preferences, so make sure you choose one that will do well in your soil type.
4. Water requirements: Some evergreen shrubs need more water than others, so make sure you choose one that fits your watering schedule.
5. Climate: Different evergreen shrubs are suited to different climates, so make sure you choose one that will thrive in your area.
By keeping these key points in mind, you can find the perfect evergreen shrubs for your shady backyard.
10 Best Evergreen Shrubs For Shade
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1. Compact Evergreen Shrub With Glossy Foliage For Full Sun To Part Shade, Known As Bronze Beauty Cleyera – 3 Gallon Live Outdoor Plant From Southern Living Plants.
The Bronze Beauty Cleyera is a stunning evergreen shrub that boasts glossy foliage and a compact growth habit. This plant is a part of the Southern Living Plant Collection and is perfect for hedges, mass plantings, foundation plantings, and privacy plantings in the landscape.
This live outdoor plant is shipped in a pot with soil and is unavailable in Hawaii and Alaska. It is recommended for USDA zones 7-10 and can mature to a size of 8-10 feet in height and 5-6 feet in width. The scientific name of this plant is Ternstoemia gymnanthera Conthery PP#11735.
One of the unique features of the Bronze Beauty Cleyera is its changing foliage color. When new foliage emerges, it has a red-bronze hue that will mature to an emerald green color. As the seasons change and Fall approaches, the foliage will shift back to a bronze color until the next Spring.
When planting the Bronze Beauty Cleyera, it is important to choose a location that will receive full sun to part shade. This plant thrives in well-drained soil and requires regular watering until it is established.
This evergreen shrub is a great addition to any landscape design and can be used for various purposes. It can be used to create a beautiful hedge, add mass plantings for a dramatic effect, or as a foundation planting for your home. Additionally, this plant can be used to create privacy plantings to shield your property from prying eyes.
The Bronze Beauty Cleyera is shipped from the Alabama Gulf Coast and is a perfect addition to any home or commercial landscaping project. It is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care and attention, making it an ideal choice for busy homeowners or commercial property owners. With its stunning foliage and compact growth habit, this plant is sure to add beauty and interest to any landscape design.
2. 2 Gal. Mountain Snow Pieris: Blooming Evergreen Shrub For Part Shade To Shade. Live Outdoor Plant With White Flowers.
The Mountain Snow Pieris is a beautiful and blooming evergreen shrub that is perfect for those looking to add a touch of elegance to their outdoor space. This live potted shrub comes in a 2-gallon pot with soil, but unfortunately, it cannot be shipped to Hawaii or Alaska. The USDA zone for this plant is 5-9, and it can grow to be 3-4 feet tall and 2-3 feet wide when mature.
The Pieris japonica ‘Planow’ has new bronze foliage that matures to dark green, which makes it a great addition to any garden. Pendulous buds appear in summer and last through winter before opening in early spring with beautiful ivory flowers. This makes it a great option for those looking for a plant that will bloom throughout the year.
If you are interested in purchasing the Mountain Snow Pieris, it's important to note that it ships from Alabama. Customers beyond the Southeast US should place orders from early fall to late spring to avoid heat damage in transit. If you are placing a large order, it's recommended to order 1-2 plants first to ensure that they will meet your specifications before placing the order for the entire project.
This plant is part of the Southern Living Plant Collection, which means that it has been chosen for its outstanding performance in Southern gardens. It's important to note that this plant prefers part shade to shade, so it's best to avoid planting it in direct sunlight. Additionally, it's important to ensure that the soil is well-draining and that the plant is watered regularly.
In summary, the Mountain Snow Pieris is a beautiful and blooming evergreen shrub that is perfect for those looking to add a touch of elegance to their outdoor space. It's easy to care for and will bloom throughout the year, making it a great choice for Southern gardens. Just be sure to order early to avoid heat damage in transit and consider ordering a few plants to ensure that they meet your specifications.
3. 2 Gallon Fool Proof Gardenia: Blooming Evergreen Shrub With Fragrant White Flowers – Full Sun/part Shade Live Plant.
The Fool Proof Gardenia is a stunning evergreen shrub that boasts beautiful white fragrant flowers. It is the perfect addition to any garden or outdoor space, adding both beauty and fragrance. With its hardy nature, it is able to withstand temperatures as low as 0°F to 10°F, making it perfect for USDA Zones 7a – 10b.
When fully mature, the Fool Proof Gardenia can reach dimensions of 3–4′ H x 3’W, making it a great choice for gardens of all sizes. It is a prolific bloomer, producing double white fragrant blooms that last from spring through fall. The reblooming feature ensures that you will have a continuous display of beautiful blooms throughout the growing season.
The Fool Proof Gardenia requires full sun to part shade, making it versatile enough to thrive in a variety of different garden settings. It is also a low maintenance plant, making it an ideal choice for those who are new to gardening or who simply do not have the time to devote to high maintenance plants.
This evergreen shrub is a hybrid variety known as 'Leesix' PP32472, and is known for its hardiness and reliability. It is a great choice for gardeners who want to add a touch of elegance and beauty to their outdoor space without having to constantly monitor and care for their plants.
Overall, the Fool Proof Gardenia is a wonderful choice for anyone looking for a low maintenance, yet beautiful and fragrant plant for their garden or outdoor space. With its hardiness, reliability, and stunning blooms, it is sure to be a favorite among gardeners of all skill levels.
4. Dwarf Mondo Grass – 40 Live Plants – Shade Loving Evergreen Ground Cover Ophiopogon Japonicus Nanus
Introducing the Dwarf Mondo Grass, a perfect addition to any landscape design. This ornamental grass is a perennial evergreen that boasts dense, dark green foliage, and a slow clumping growth habit that only reaches 4-6 inches tall and wide. This variety is only half the size of other mondo grasses, making it an ideal choice for small gardens or tight spaces.
The Dwarf Mondo Grass creates a lush groundcover with its grass-like clumps. It is an excellent edging plant or can be tucked into rocks for a pleasing contrast. It is striking in mass plantings, adding texture and depth to any landscape. Its evergreen nature ensures that it remains beautiful year-round, even in the winter months.
This low-maintenance evergreen requires a regular watering schedule to ensure the growth of a mature root system. Once established, it only needs occasional watering, except during droughts when regular watering is necessary. Pruning old foliage is recommended to maintain a well-groomed appearance.
The Dwarf Mondo Grass is versatile and can be used in various landscape designs. It is widely used in rock gardens, seashore plantings, borders, and groundcovers. It is similar in appearance to a ground cover commonly known as Lilyturf (Liriope muscari), but has thinner leaves and a finer texture.
Grown, packaged, and shipped exclusively by Florida Foliage, you can be assured of the quality of your plants. Florida Foliage takes pride in providing healthy and vibrant plants that will thrive in your landscape.
In summary, the Dwarf Mondo Grass is a beautiful and versatile ornamental grass that is perfect for small gardens or tight spaces. Its evergreen nature ensures that it remains beautiful year-round, and its lush groundcover creates texture and depth in any landscape design. With its low-maintenance nature, it is an excellent choice for those who want a beautiful landscape without the hassle of constant upkeep.
5. Southern Living Plant Collection's Obsession Nandina: Multicolor Evergreen Shrub With Red Foliage – Full To Part Sun Live Outdoor Plant (2.5 Quart)
The Southern Living Plant Collection Obsession Nandina is a beautiful and versatile evergreen shrub that adds color and texture to any outdoor space. This plant features brilliant red new foliage that contrasts with its deep green mature growth, making it a standout addition to any garden or landscape.
With a mature size of 3-4' H x 3-4' W, this shrub is perfect for adding structure and dimension to your garden. It thrives in full sun to part shade and is hardy in USDA zones 6-9. This plant is shipped in a pot with soil, but please note that it is unavailable in Hawaii and Alaska.
To care for your Southern Living Plant Collection Obsession Nandina, it is recommended to water it 2-3 times per week during the first growing season. During its second season, water 1-2 times per week depending on the weather. After that, this plant only needs supplementary water during times of extreme heat and drought.
Fertilizing your plant with variety-specific fertilizer 2-3 times during the growing season, starting in early spring, will provide it with the nutrients it needs to thrive. This plant is a cultivar of Nandina domestica Seika PPAF and is part of the Southern Living Plant Collection.
Overall, the Southern Living Plant Collection Obsession Nandina is a beautiful and low-maintenance evergreen shrub that is perfect for adding color and texture to any garden or landscape. With proper care, this plant will thrive and bring joy to your outdoor space for years to come.
6. Emerald Snow Loropetalum: Flowering Evergreen Shrub For Full Sun/part Shade – Southern Living Plants.
The Emerald Snow Loropetalum is a stunning flowering evergreen shrub that is sure to add a touch of elegance to any outdoor space. This shrub features green foliage and white blooms that create a beautiful contrast against each other. It is perfect for those who want to add a touch of sophistication and beauty to their garden or landscape.
This plant is a member of the Southern Living Plant Collection and is known for its ability to thrive in full sun to part shade environments. It is a versatile plant that can be used in various garden styles, including contemporary, traditional, and cottage gardens.
The Emerald Snow Loropetalum is a fast-growing shrub that can reach a mature size of 4-6 feet in height and 3-4 feet in width. It is hardy in USDA zones 7-10, making it an ideal choice for gardeners in those areas. This shrub is perfect for borders, hedges, and accent planting.
The Loropetalum chinense 'Shang-white' PP21738 is a cultivar of the Chinese fringe flower that is known for its white flowers. The flowers bloom in early spring and last for several weeks, creating a stunning display of white against the green foliage. The shrub also produces small, red berries in the fall, adding to its visual appeal.
The Emerald Snow Loropetalum is shipped in a pot with soil, ready to be planted in the desired location. However, it is important to note that this item is unavailable in Hawaii and Alaska.
Overall, the Emerald Snow Loropetalum is a beautiful and easy-to-grow plant that is sure to enhance any outdoor space. It is perfect for those who want a low-maintenance plant that can add color and texture to their landscape. With its stunning white blooms and green foliage, this shrub is a must-have for any garden enthusiast.
7. 2.5 Quart Parsoni Juniper, Low-Growing Evergreen With Grayish Blue-Green Foliage For Full Sun And Shade.
The Parsoni Juniper is a resilient evergreen ground cover with grayish blue-green foliage that is packed with aromatic scents. This low-growing shrub has a feathery appearance due to its needle-like leaves, making it a popular choice for landscaping. The plant reaches a mature height of 2-3' and can spread up to 5-6' depending on its growing conditions.
This Juniper is also an excellent choice for bonsai enthusiasts due to its hardiness and easy-to-prune nature. Although it is not cut in bonsai form, it can be shaped into a bonsai tree with proper technique. Caring for the Parsoni Juniper requires the right environment to promote growth. It is important to avoid removing all growing tips simultaneously when pruning, as this can cause the leaves to turn brown and the whole plant to decline. Instead, trim dense foliage areas with small, sharp pruning shears.
The Parsoni Juniper is hardy in USDA zones 4-8 and is quite tolerant of drought conditions once mature. During this period, it is recommended to water the plant every 2-4 days and then once per week. Juniper plants thrive in heat, humidity, drought, polluted/urban environments, and salty coastal environments.
This plant ships as a 2.5 Quart potted plant with soil from the Alabama Gulf Coast. However, it is unavailable for shipping to Hawaii, California, and Alaska. The Parsoni Juniper is a nonflowering plant that requires full sun to part shade exposure.
Overall, the Parsoni Juniper is an attractive and low-maintenance evergreen shrub that is perfect for ground cover or bonsai enthusiasts. Its resilient nature and easy-to-prune characteristics make it a great addition to any garden or landscape.
8. Emerald Green Arborvitae – Evergreen Shrub/tree For Full Sun/part Shade – 2.5 Quart Live Plant.
The Emerald Green Arborvitae is a popular evergreen shrub/tree that boasts green foliage and is suitable for full sun to part shade conditions. This live outdoor plant comes in a 2.5 quart pot with soil and is not available for shipping to Hawaii and Alaska.
The plant is a member of the Thuja occidentalis species and is known for its striking green color and attractive growth habit. It is hardy in USDA zones 4-8 and can grow up to 15 feet tall and 3-4 feet wide when fully mature.
The Emerald Green Arborvitae is a low maintenance plant that requires minimal pruning and upkeep. It is drought tolerant and adapts well to a variety of soil conditions. The plant is also resistant to pests and diseases, making it an ideal choice for gardeners looking for a hardy and reliable plant for their landscape.
Plants by Mail is a trusted source for live plants and the Emerald Green Arborvitae is no exception. The plant ships from the Alabama Gulf Coast and is carefully packaged to ensure safe delivery.
In summary, the Emerald Green Arborvitae is a stunning evergreen shrub/tree that is easy to care for and adds beauty and texture to any landscape. With its impressive size and hardy nature, it is a popular choice among gardeners looking for a reliable and attractive plant for their outdoor space.
9. Anise Forest Green – 10 Live Plants – Illicium Parviflorum – Shade Loving Evergreen Hedge
The Anise Forest Green is a small, tender evergreen tree that produces glossy, olive-green foliage with a delightful anise fragrance. This plant is grown, packaged and shipped exclusively by Florida Foliage, ensuring that customers receive only the highest quality plants.
The foliage of the Anise Forest Green is similar to that of a rhododendron, making it an interesting accent tree for small spaces. It can also be planted where rhododendrons will not thrive. This plant is evergreen, providing year-round beauty to any landscape. However, it is important to note that the Anise Forest Green is not a substitute for the culinary spice and flavorings obtained from Illicium verum and should not be ingested.
To establish a deep, extensive root system, it is recommended to follow a regular watering schedule during the first growing season. The Anise Forest Green prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It is also recommended to feed this plant with an acid fertilizer before spring growth and to prune it to shape after flowering.
For optimal growth, the Anise Forest Green should be planted in organically rich, moist, well-drained soil. It is important to shelter this plant from harsh afternoon sun and to mulch to keep the roots cool and conserve moisture. Watering deeply and regularly during the first growing season will help establish the root system, but once established, the Anise Forest Green only needs to be watered as needed to maintain evenly moist soil. Applying an acid fertilizer in early spring and pruning after flowering will also help this plant thrive.
The Anise Forest Green is winter hardy to USDA Zones 7-10 and can be easily grown in moist, rich soils in part shade to full shade. While it can tolerate full sun, it is important to ensure the soil is kept uniformly moist. Established plants can tolerate some drought, but prefer good moisture. Branches may root where they touch the ground, allowing this plant to spread by root suckers to form colonies.
This evergreen shrub is a great addition to any landscape and can be naturalized in moist shady landscape areas or woodlands. It can be used in borders, foundations, screens, and hedges. The Anise Forest Green is also resistant to serious insect and disease problems, making it a low-maintenance option for any gardener.
10. 2 Gallon Florida Sunshine Illicium 'anise' Evergreen Shrub With Chartreuse Foliage – Live Outdoor Plant For Part Sun To Shade Areas By Southern Living Plants.
The Florida Sunshine Illicium 'Anise' is a stunning evergreen shrub that adds year-round color to any garden. This Southern Living Plant Collection classic is known for its fragrant, dense, chartreuse green to yellow foliage that glows in the sunlight. During cooler weather, the stems will turn a deep red, adding to its ornamental value. The mature shrubs typically reach an average size of 5 feet in height and 3 feet in width.
This shrub is perfect for landscaping, as its part shade preference makes it an ideal addition to woodland locations. It is great for mixed shrub borders, foundation plantings, hedges, and borders. The brightly colored leaves provide a warm feeling in any garden and attract pollinators, while the star-shaped seeds are enjoyed by birds.
The Florida Sunshine Illicium is relatively easy to care for, making it an excellent choice for those who want to add color to their garden without a lot of maintenance. Pruning should be performed in the late spring to manage its size and encourage healthy, dense growth.
This plant is hardy in USDA zones 6-9 and requires rich, moist soil to thrive. It is not a drought-tolerant plant, so it should be watered 2-3 times per week during the first growing season. It is important to note that this plant is not available for shipment to Hawaii and Alaska.
Our Florida Sunshine Illicium will ship as a 2-gallon potted plant with soil from the Alabama Gulf Coast. This means that you can enjoy a healthy and vibrant plant right from the start. Bring some warmth and color to your garden with this beautiful evergreen shrub.
Best Evergreen Shrubs For Shade FAQs
Can evergreen shrubs for shade also provide privacy?
Yes, evergreen shrubs for shade can also provide privacy. Many varieties of evergreen shrubs have dense foliage that can create a natural barrier, making them a popular choice for privacy screens. Some common examples of evergreen shrubs that can provide both shade and privacy include boxwoods, hollies, and arborvitae.
When selecting evergreen shrubs for privacy, it is important to consider the height and width of the plants, as well as their growth rate. You should also consider the amount of space available and the specific needs of the chosen shrubs, such as soil type and sun exposure.
In addition to providing privacy and shade, evergreen shrubs can add aesthetic value to your landscape. They can be used to create a natural backdrop for other plants and can be shaped into various forms to create a unique garden design. Overall, evergreen shrubs are a versatile option that can meet multiple landscaping needs.
How do I properly care for evergreen shrubs in shaded areas?
Evergreen shrubs can thrive in shaded areas if they are properly cared for. The first step is to choose the right type of shrub for the amount of shade in the area. Some evergreens, such as yews and boxwoods, can tolerate full shade, while others, like junipers and arborvitae, prefer partial shade.
Next, make sure the soil is well-drained and rich in organic matter. Mulching around the base of the shrub can help retain moisture and prevent weeds.
Regular watering is essential, especially during dry spells. However, be careful not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot.
Pruning can also help maintain the shape and size of the shrub. Trim back any dead or damaged branches, and remove any crossing branches that could rub against each other and cause damage.
Finally, monitor the shrub for pests and diseases, and treat promptly if necessary. With proper care, evergreen shrubs can thrive in shaded areas, providing year-round beauty and interest to your landscape.
How much shade can evergreen shrubs tolerate?
Evergreen shrubs can tolerate varying degrees of shade depending on the species and their growth requirements. Some evergreen shrubs, such as camellias and azaleas, prefer partial shade or filtered sunlight, while others like yews and boxwoods can tolerate full shade. These plants have evolved to thrive in low-light conditions, and their foliage has adapted to capture the maximum amount of light available to them.
In general, evergreen shrubs require at least a few hours of direct sunlight each day to maintain their health and growth. Insufficient light can lead to weak growth, sparse foliage, and increased susceptibility to diseases and pests. However, excessive sunlight can also harm evergreen shrubs, causing leaf scorch and dehydration.
Proper placement and care are key to ensuring that evergreen shrubs receive the right amount of sunlight and shade. Consult with a professional landscaper or plant specialist to determine the best location and care routine for your specific species of evergreen shrub.
What are some low-maintenance evergreen shrubs for shade?
There are several low-maintenance evergreen shrubs that can thrive in shaded areas. One great option is the Japanese yew (Taxus cuspidata), which is known for its dense foliage and ability to tolerate shade. Another good choice is the dwarf Hinoki cypress (Chamaecyparis obtusa 'Nana'), which has a compact growth habit and requires minimal pruning. The American holly (Ilex opaca) is another low-maintenance evergreen shrub that can do well in shady areas, with the added bonus of producing bright red berries in the winter. The Chinese holly (Ilex cornuta) is also a good option, with its glossy leaves and tolerance for shade. Finally, the boxwood (Buxus sempervirens) is a classic evergreen shrub that is low-maintenance and can handle some shade, although it does require regular pruning to maintain its shape.
What are the best evergreen shrubs for shade?
There are several evergreen shrubs that thrive in shady conditions. Some of the best options include:
1. Japanese Pieris: This shrub produces clusters of pink or white flowers in early spring and has glossy green leaves that remain on the plant year-round.
2. Camellia: With its showy blooms and glossy foliage, camellias are a popular choice for shade gardens. They come in a variety of colors and sizes.
3. Boxwood: These compact shrubs have small, dark green leaves and respond well to pruning, making them a great choice for hedges or topiaries.
4. Rhododendron: These shrubs produce large, colorful blooms in the spring and have dark green, leathery leaves that stay on the plant year-round.
5. Holly: Many varieties of holly are evergreen and can thrive in shade. They have glossy leaves and produce colorful berries in the fall and winter.
When selecting evergreen shrubs for shade, it's important to choose varieties that are well-suited to your specific growing conditions. Consider factors like soil type, moisture levels, and the amount of sunlight the area receives before making your choice.