NATIVE SHRUBS AND TREES TO PLANT
COMMERCIAL LANDSCAPE MANAGEMENT - SERVICING MARYLAND, DC, AND VIRGINIA
PLANTING NATIVE SHRUBS AND TREES
Shrubs and small trees not only provide structure and define spaces within a garden but also offer vital habitats for wildlife, promoting biodiversity. When strategically placed, these plants can create natural windbreaks, reduce noise pollution, and improve soil quality by promoting healthy root systems. Incorporating a variety of heights, textures, and colors can create visual interest throughout the seasons, making the landscape a dynamic and inviting environment.
Boxwood, known for its rich green hue, features small, oval leaves that are densely packed along its stems, creating a lush, full appearance. The leaves are typically a glossy, deep green, with a smooth texture that reflects sunlight beautifully, enhancing the vibrancy of its color. Boxwood shrubs can be shaped into various forms, from neat hedges to intricate topiaries, making them a versatile choice for gardens and landscapes.
TYPE
evergreen
HEIGHT / WIDTH
8-20' high and 1-20' wide
VARIETIES
green mountain, wintergreen, japanese
PURPOSE
hedging and ornamental
Thuja, commonly known as arborvitae, showcases an array of colors and shapes that contribute to its appeal in landscaping. The foliage typically ranges from vibrant green to deep emerald, with some varieties exhibiting golden or yellow hues, particularly in the spring and summer months. The leaves are scale-like, densely packed, and can take on a feathery appearance, adding texture to the plant. In terms of shape, thuja can vary from narrow, columnar forms to broader, pyramidal silhouettes to use in garden designs, hedges, or as standalone specimens.
TYPE
evergreen
HEIGHT / WIDTH
10-60' high and 3-20' wide
VARIETIES
emerald green, rheingold
PURPOSE
hedging and ornamental
Inkberry is a striking evergreen shrub characterized by its glossy, dark green leaves that are oval-shaped and finely serrated along the edges. The foliage has a dense, bushy appearance, creating a lush backdrop in any garden setting. In late summer to early fall, this plant produces small, round, black berries that stand out against the vibrant green leaves, adding a touch of visual interest. The berries, which are not typically consumed by humans, provide a vital food source for various bird species during the winter months, enhancing the ecological value of this resilient shrub.
TYPE
evergreen
HEIGHT / WIDTH
3-5' high and 3-4' wide
VARIETIES
shamrock, gem rock, compacta
PURPOSE
ornamental and ecological
The hydrangea boasts an enchanting array of colors, ranging from soft pastels to vibrant hues, including delicate pinks, deep blues, and striking purples. Their large, rounded flower clusters, known as mopheads or lacecaps, create a stunning visual display, with each bloom composed of numerous small florets that collectively form a lush, full appearance. The intricate shapes of the petals can vary, some appearing ruffled and others smooth, adding to the charm of this beloved garden shrub. As the seasons change, these flowers often shift in color, providing a dynamic and evolving palette that enriches the landscape.
TYPE
evergreen
HEIGHT / WIDTH
1-10' high and 3-10' wide
VARIETIES
big leaf, smooth
PURPOSE
ornamental
Viburnums exhibit a captivating array of colors and shapes, making them a popular choice in gardens and landscapes. Their leaves typically range from deep green to vibrant shades of burgundy, often displaying a glossy sheen or a textured surface that adds visual interest. In the spring, many viburnum species burst forth with clusters of delicate white, pink, or even red flowers, creating a striking contrast against the foliage. As the seasons change, these shrubs often produce colorful berries that can vary from bright red to dark blue or black, attracting birds and providing additional seasonal appeal.
TYPE
evergreen
HEIGHT / WIDTH
3-20' high and 3-20' wide
VARIETIES
snowball, burkwood
PURPOSE
ornamental and ecological
Forsythia is known for its vibrant yellow blossoms that herald the arrival of spring. The flowers, which bloom in early March to April, are typically small, trumpet-shaped, and grow in clusters along the branches, creating a stunning display of color. The leaves of the Forsythia plant are elongated, slender, and a rich green, providing a beautiful contrast to the bright yellow blooms. As the season progresses, the foliage turns a deeper green, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of this deciduous shrub.
TYPE
deciduous
HEIGHT / WIDTH
3-10' high and 3-10' wide
VARIETIES
lynwood gold, meadowlark
PURPOSE
ornamental
Rhododendrons are celebrated for their stunning blooms, which come in a vibrant array of colors, including shades of pink, purple, red, white, and yellow, often featuring intricate patterns and subtle gradients. The flowers typically form clusters, showcasing a trumpet-like shape with petals that can be smooth or frilled at the edges, creating a lush, full appearance. The leaves of the rhododendron are equally distinctive, thick, leathery, and evergreen, with a glossy surface that ranges from deep green to bluish-green, providing a striking backdrop to the brilliant flowers during their blooming season.
TYPE
evergreen
HEIGHT / WIDTH
2-10' high and 2-8' wide
VARIETIES
golden lights, pjm
PURPOSE
ornamental
Spirea showcases a stunning array of colors and shapes that captivate the eye throughout the seasons. Its delicate clusters of tiny flowers, which bloom in shades ranging from soft pinks and whites to vibrant reds, create a striking contrast against the lush green foliage. The leaves themselves are often oval or lance-shaped, featuring a glossy sheen that enhances their visual appeal. In the fall, spirea transforms yet again, with foliage that can turn brilliant shades of orange and red, adding warmth and richness.
TYPE
evergreen
HEIGHT / WIDTH
2-10' high and 2-8' wide
VARIETIES
douglas, shiny leaf, rosy
PURPOSE
ornamental
Oceanspray is a deciduous shrub characterized by its distinctive appearance. The plant features arching branches adorned with clusters of small, creamy-white flowers that bloom in late spring to early summer, creating a striking display against its vibrant green foliage. The leaves are typically oval to lance-shaped, with a serrated edge, and exhibit a rich, dark green color that transitions to shades of yellow and orange in the fall.
TYPE
deciduous
HEIGHT / WIDTH
3-10' high and 4-8' wide
VARIETIES
holodiscus
PURPOSE
ornamental
Red-osier Dogwood is a visually striking shrub characterized by its vibrant red stems that provide a stunning contrast against its lush green leaves. The leaves are typically oval-shaped with smooth edges, displaying a deep green hue in the summer that transitions to a rich burgundy or purplish tone in the fall. In spring, clusters of small, white flowers bloom, adding a delicate touch to the overall appearance before giving way to clusters of white berries.
TYPE
deciduous
HEIGHT / WIDTH
6-9' high and 6-8' wide
VARIETIES
flaviramea, variegata
PURPOSE
ornamental and ecological
The Pacific ninebark captivates with its foliage featuring vibrant green leaves that are intricately lobed, giving the shrub a lush appearance. In the fall, these leaves transition to stunning hues of yellow and orange, creating a beautiful contrast against the shrub's peeling bark, which reveals layers of reddish-brown and tan. It has a rounded, bushy form that adds texture and depth. Its clusters of delicate, white to pale pink flowers bloom in late spring, further enhancing its visual appeal and making it a popular choice for naturalized settings.
TYPE
deciduous
HEIGHT / WIDTH
5-10' high and 6-10' wide
VARIETIES
amber jubilee, caramel candy
PURPOSE
ornamental
Salal is characterized by its glossy, dark green leaves that are typically oval-shaped. The leaves have a leathery texture and display a subtle, serrated edge, adding to their visual appeal. In the fall, they transform into vibrant shades of red and purple, creating a stunning contrast against the backdrop of the plant's clusters of small, white to pale pink flowers. The berries that follow are a deep blue-black color, round, and glossy that attracts various wildlife.
TYPE
evergreen
HEIGHT / WIDTH
1-3' high and 3-5' wide
VARIETIES
gaultheria
PURPOSE
ornamental and ecological
The evergreen huckleberry captivates the senses with its glossy, deep green leaves, which are oval-shaped with a smooth texture, creating a lush backdrop for the small, succulent berries that dangle from the branches. These berries, typically ripening to a rich, dark blue or black hue, are round and about the size of a marble, often adorned with a subtle bloom that enhances their allure. The contrast between the vibrant foliage and the plump, jewel-like fruits makes the evergreen huckleberry a delightful sight in woodlands and gardens alike.
TYPE
evergreen
HEIGHT / WIDTH
3-6' high and 3-5' wide
VARIETIES
chicagoland, prairie pride
PURPOSE
ornamental and ecological
The Northern Bayberry presents a distinctive appeal with its rounded, waxy berries that range in color from deep green to a rich, bluish-purple hue as they mature. The berries are clustered tightly along the slender, reddish-brown stems, creating an eye-catching contrast against the glossy, dark green leaves. The lanceolate leaves have a subtle serration along the edges. In autumn, the foliage may take on a warmer tone, showcasing shades of yellow, orange, and red, which enhances the plant's ornamental value.
TYPE
deciduous
HEIGHT / WIDTH
3-6' high and 3-4' wide
VARIETIES
myrica
PURPOSE
ornamental and ecological
The American Beauty Berry is renowned for its vibrant clusters of small, round berries that typically ripen to a stunning deep purple or magenta hue in late summer to fall. These berries grow in dense, bead-like formations along the branches, creating a visually captivating contrast against the lush green foliage with leaves that are ovate and have a slightly serrated edge. When in full bloom, the berry's vivid colors attract attention and serves as an essential food source for various birds and wildlife.
TYPE
evergreen
HEIGHT / WIDTH
3-6' high and 3-5' wide
VARIETIES
early amethyst, profusion
PURPOSE
ornamental and ecological
Mock Orange displays a striking array of colors and shapes that evoke the warmth of late spring. Its delicate, white flowers, often tinged with a hint of lemon scent, bloom in clusters, resembling small, fragrant stars against a backdrop of lush green foliage. The leaves are oval and glossy, providing a vibrant contrast to the blossoms. The overall form of the Mock Orange shrub is typically bushy and rounded with a dense growth habit that lends itself beautifully to hedges or as standalone specimens.
TYPE
deciduous
HEIGHT / WIDTH
4-8' high and 4-9' wide
VARIETIES
lewis
PURPOSE
hedging and ornamental
The serviceberry showcases a delightful array of colors and shapes that captivate the senses throughout its growth cycle. In spring, its delicate white to pale pink blossoms appear in clusters, creating a stunning contrast against the fresh green foliage. The leaves are lance-shaped with a soft, reddish hue before maturing to a rich, dark green. In autumn, the foliage transforms into a vibrant tapestry of oranges, yellows, and reds. The small, round berries that follow in summer transition from green to a deep, luscious purple, resembling blueberries.
TYPE
deciduous
HEIGHT / WIDTH
4-8' high and 4-9' wide
VARIETIES
smokey, regent, pembina
PURPOSE
ornamental and ecological
The burning bush captivates the eye with its striking display of vibrant colors and unique shape. Its arching branches create a bushy, compact form, while its leaves transform dramatically in the fall, transitioning from a deep green to brilliant shades of fiery red and orange. The foliage is oval-shaped with finely serrated edges, adding to its visual appeal. As the leaves change, the bush becomes a stunning focal point in any landscape, often appearing as if it is ablaze with color, especially under the soft light of autumn sunsets.
TYPE
deciduous
HEIGHT / WIDTH
3-10' high and 3-15' wide
VARIETIES
winged, corky
PURPOSE
ornamental
The snowberry has a distinctive appearance that captivates the eye. Its berries, which emerge in late summer and persist into winter, are round, white, resembling small pearls draped delicately across the branches. The shape of the snowberry itself is bushy and sprawling, with slender, arching stems. The delicate, spherical berries and lush, leafy growth creates a striking visual display, particularly when dusted with frost or snow, giving the impression of a winter wonderland.
TYPE
deciduous
HEIGHT / WIDTH
3-6' high and 3-5' wide
VARIETIES
magic berry, mother of pearl
PURPOSE
ornamental and ecological
The Eastern Redbud is well-known for its vibrant and eye-catching appearance. In early spring, it bursts into a profusion of small, pea-like blossoms that range in color from delicate pink to vivid magenta, creating a stunning contrast against its dark, heart-shaped leaves. The foliage is a rich green, often taking on a yellow hue in the fall, adding seasonal interest to its rounded form. The tree typically grows with a low, spreading canopy. Its elegant, twisting branches and smooth, grayish-brown bark contribute to its overall charm throughout the year.
TYPE
deciduous
HEIGHT / WIDTH
20-30' high and 25-35' wide
VARIETIES
forest pansy, appalachian red
PURPOSE
ornamental
The vine maple showcases a stunning array of colors and shapes that captivate the eye throughout the seasons. Its leaves are typically palmate, with lobes that radiate from a central point, giving them a delicate, hand-like appearance. In spring, the fresh foliage emerges in vibrant shades of light green, transitioning to a rich, deep green in summer. In autumn, the leaves transform into a tapestry of colors, displaying hues of red, orange, and yellow, with subtle variations that create a visual effect. The graceful, arching branches add to its charm, often creating a layered, cascading silhouette that enhances its natural beauty.
TYPE
deciduous
HEIGHT / WIDTH
15-25' high and 10-15' wide
VARIETIES
pacific fire, sunglow
PURPOSE
ornamental
The paperbark maple is renowned for its striking aesthetic appeal, particularly in the fall when its leaves transform into vibrant hues of orange, red, and yellow. The tree's leaves are trifoliate, with each leaf consisting of three distinct lobes. The foliage is glossy and dark green during the growing season, providing a lush backdrop to its unique bark. The most captivating feature of the paperbark maple is its exfoliating bark, which peels away in thin, papery strips, revealing a rich, cinnamon-brown underlayer, enhancing the tree's overall texture.
TYPE
deciduous
HEIGHT / WIDTH
20-30' high and 15-25' wide
VARIETIES
paperbark birch
PURPOSE
ornamental
The star magnolia captivates with its exquisite, star-shaped flowers that bloom in early spring before the leaves emerge. Each flower features an arrangement of delicate, narrow petals that range from pristine white to soft pink, creating a stunning contrast against the dark, bare branches. The blossoms are exudes a subtle, sweet fragrance that attracts early pollinators. The overall appearance is ethereal and enchanting, making the star magnolia a cherished specimen in gardens and landscapes, where it heralds the arrival of warmer days.
TYPE
deciduous
HEIGHT / WIDTH
15-20' high and 10-15' wide
VARIETIES
rosea, royal star
PURPOSE
ornamental
Crabapple trees produce a stunning array of small, vibrant fruits that typically range in color from deep crimson to bright yellow, often with a glossy sheen that catches the light beautifully. The apples are generally round or oval and their skin is often dappled with speckles or stripes, adding to their visual appeal. The fruits may have a slightly waxy texture, giving them an enticing appearance that contrasts with the lush green foliage of the tree, the hues deepening as they ripen in the fall.
TYPE
deciduous
HEIGHT / WIDTH
15-25' high and 15-25' wide
VARIETIES
sugar tyme, red sentinel
PURPOSE
ornamental and ecological
The Yoshino Cherry Tree showcases delicate blossoms that range from a soft, pale pink to a striking white as they unfurl in early spring. The flowers are typically composed of five petals, which are slightly serrated at the edges, creating a rounded, cup-like shape that adds to their charm. As they bloom, the blossoms cluster in dense groups, forming a stunning canopy that transforms the landscape into a picturesque scene. The tree’s bark is smooth and light brown, providing a lovely contrast to the vibrant hues of the flowers.
TYPE
deciduous
HEIGHT / WIDTH
30-40' high and 25-35' wide
VARIETIES
akebono, weeping
PURPOSE
ornamental
The Japanese Maple is renowned for its diverse foliage, from deep crimson and vibrant orange to soft greens and golden hues. The leaves are typically palmate in shape, featuring deeply lobed segments that create a delicate, intricate silhouette. In spring, the young leaves emerge with a fresh brightness, while autumn brings a spectacular display of fiery colors that transform the tree into a focal point in any landscape. The overall graceful form of the tree, with its elegantly arching branches and compact size, adds to its charm.
TYPE
deciduous
HEIGHT / WIDTH
10-25' high and 15-20' wide
VARIETIES
crimson queen, coral bark, baby lace
PURPOSE
ornamental
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