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Wax Myrtle
$0.00
Full sun
Partial sun
6'-20'
Not deer resistant
Wax Myrtle (Myrica cerifera), also known as Southern Wax Myrtle or Southern Bayberry, is a versatile, fast-growing evergreen shrub or small tree admired for its aromatic foliage and natural resilience. Native to the southeastern United States, Wax Myrtle has narrow, lance-shaped, olive-green leaves that emit a pleasant fragrance when crushed. In fall, female plants produce clusters of small, waxy, bluish-gray berries along the stems, which provide food for birds and wildlife throughout winter. The berries have historically been used to make bayberry candles due to their high wax content.
Wax Myrtle can grow between 10 to 20 feet in height, with a similar spread, though it can be pruned to maintain a smaller size or shaped into a hedge. This shrub thrives in USDA zones 7-10 and is adaptable to a variety of soil types, including sandy, acidic, and poorly draining soils. Wax Myrtle is drought-tolerant once established and highly resistant to salt, making it well-suited for coastal landscapes and xeriscape gardens. It performs best in full sun to partial shade.
Low-maintenance and pest-resistant, Wax Myrtle requires minimal pruning, though it can be trimmed in late winter or early spring to shape and control growth if used as a hedge or screen. It is also deer-resistant and helps with erosion control, making it a practical choice for naturalized settings, slopes, or privacy screens. With its fragrant foliage, wildlife-friendly berries, and tolerance to challenging conditions, Wax Myrtle is a valuable addition to both formal and informal landscapes, bringing beauty and functionality year-round.
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Oleander
$0.00
Full sun
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5'-15'
Deer resistant
Oleander (Nerium oleander) is a robust, evergreen shrub or small tree renowned for its lush, dark green foliage and showy, fragrant flowers. Native to the Mediterranean and parts of Asia, Oleander produces clusters of large, trumpet-shaped flowers in vibrant shades of pink, red, white, yellow, and salmon. Blooming from late spring through fall, its long-lasting flowers add bold color to warm-climate gardens and are highly attractive to pollinators like butterflies.
Oleander typically grows between 6 to 20 feet tall and 6 to 10 feet wide, depending on the variety and growing conditions. This plant thrives in full sun and is hardy in USDA zones 8-11. Known for its adaptability, Oleander tolerates a variety of soils, from sandy to loamy, as long as they are well-draining. It is also highly drought-tolerant and salt-tolerant once established, making it ideal for coastal areas, xeriscape gardens, or other low-water landscapes.
Low-maintenance and easy to grow, Oleander requires occasional pruning to maintain shape and encourage new blooms, usually done in late winter or early spring. However, it’s important to handle this plant with care, as all parts of the oleander are toxic if ingested. Despite this toxicity, Oleander’s resilience, lush appearance, and profuse flowering make it a popular choice for creating colorful hedges, privacy screens, or dramatic focal points in warm-climate gardens. Its bold blooms and easy-care nature lend an exotic feel to a variety of landscape settings.
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Azalea
$0.00
Partial sun
Full shade
4'-8'
Not deer resistant
Azalea (Rhododendron spp.) is a popular flowering shrub known for its stunning, trumpet-shaped blooms and lush foliage. Belonging to the Rhododendron genus, Azaleas bring vibrant color to landscapes in early spring, with some varieties blooming again in summer and fall. Available in a variety of colors including shades of pink, red, purple, white, and orange, Azaleas create a striking visual impact in gardens and are a favorite for foundation plantings, borders, and woodland gardens.
Azaleas range in size from compact, low-growing varieties (around 2-3 feet) to larger shrubs reaching up to 6-10 feet, depending on the species and cultivar. These shrubs thrive in partial shade to filtered sun, especially in hot climates, and prefer well-draining, acidic soil rich in organic matter. They are generally hardy in USDA zones 6-9, though some cold-tolerant varieties can grow in zone 5.
Azaleas are relatively low-maintenance but benefit from occasional pruning after their main bloom cycle to maintain shape and encourage denser growth. Regular watering is essential, especially during dry spells, as Azaleas have shallow roots that can dry out quickly. Mulching around the base helps retain soil moisture and maintain an acidic pH.
With their vibrant flowers, glossy green foliage, and adaptability, Azaleas are ideal for adding a splash of color and elegance to shaded gardens, foundation plantings, and naturalized areas. Their versatility and beauty make them a timeless choice for landscapes ranging from traditional to informal.
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Elaeagnus
$0.00
Full sun
Partial sun
5'-10'
Deer resistant
Elaeagnus (Elaeagnus spp.), also known as Silverberry or Autumn Olive, is a hardy, evergreen or semi-evergreen shrub prized for its silvery-green foliage, fragrant flowers, and adaptability. Native to Asia and parts of Europe, Elaeagnus is known for its dense, fast-growing habit, which makes it an excellent choice for privacy screens, hedges, or windbreaks. In late fall, it produces small, tubular, fragrant flowers that are creamy white or silver and attract pollinators. These are followed by small, red or silver edible berries that ripen in late winter or spring, providing food for wildlife.
Elaeagnus can grow to heights of 10 to 15 feet and a similar spread, though it can be pruned to maintain a smaller size. Thriving in USDA zones 6-10, this shrub is extremely adaptable, tolerating a variety of soil types, from sandy to clay soils, as long as they are well-draining. Elaeagnus is also highly drought-tolerant and can handle salt spray, making it suitable for coastal or xeriscape gardens. Its resilient nature allows it to thrive in both full sun and partial shade.
With minimal maintenance needs, Elaeagnus benefits from occasional pruning to maintain shape and remove any leggy growth. It is generally resistant to pests and diseases, further adding to its appeal as a low-maintenance shrub. With its fast growth, dense foliage, and seasonal interest, Elaeagnus is ideal for gardeners seeking a tough, attractive shrub that provides both privacy and a touch of elegance to the landscape year-round.
