Simple Shrub Border for Low-maintenance Screen

Three large shrubs, two evergreen and one with an ever-evolving multi-season display are the basis of this low-maintenance border. It is skirted by dwarf barberry in deep burgundy tones and a carpet of Veronica 'Georgia Blue' which add coverage and interest to the ground plane. A deciduous, multi-season tree towards the back and behind the Osmanthus h. 'Goshiki' would round out the show. The photo shows a magnolia which is a fine choice, however a Stewartia pseudocamellia might be an even better choice, given its fantastic 4-season performance. The key to success with this planting combination is to give it room. The trio of individual plants that are the core of the combo each require a fair amount of space to come into their own. For instance, the Osmanthus h. 'Goshiki' can withstand pruning, however a lighter hand is necessary for the doublefile viburnum—excessive pruning can ruin its graceful horizontal growth habit. 


Growing Conditions

Zone: 6, 7, 8
Exposure: Full Sun, Part Sun
Water Needs: Average

Design Considerations

Style: Northwest Eclectic, Woodland
Features: Fabulous Foliage, Fall Color, Four Season Appeal, Low Maintenance, Varied Foliage, Texture, and Form, Winter Interest
Focus: Curb Appeal, Mixed Border, Pleasing Seasonal Flow, Privacy and Screening, Year-round Interest, Uses Easy-to-Find Plants
Seasons of Interest: Spring, Summer, Fall, Pleasing Seasonal Changes, Year-round Interest, Three Seasons of Interest

Care and Maintenance


Maintenance Level: low

Credits

Darcy Daniels, Bloomtown Gardens, Portland OR



Plants In this Combo