12 Evergreen Shrubs for Garden that Looks Great Year-Round

Are you looking to add some color and life to your garden but don’t have the time or energy for high-maintenance trees? Look no further than evergreen shrubs! These hardy plants will keep your garden green and vibrant all year round.

But with so many options, deciding which shrubs are the best fit for your garden can be overwhelming.

That’s why I’m here to help! I’ve handpicked a selection of evergreen shrubs perfect for different situations, such as those that produce beautiful blooms and thrive in the shade.

Plus, I’ll share our top three tips for selecting the perfect shrubs to create a peaceful and stylish garden. So grab your gardening gloves, and let’s get planting.

3 Reasons Why They’re the Perfect Choice for Your Garden

These trees are the perfect choice for a typical house garden, regardless of size. Here are three reasons why evergreen shrubs are the recommended choice for your garden:

• First, with evergreen shrubs, you can enjoy greenery all year round. 
• Second, evergreen shrubs are great for shading your garden without blocking the sunlight. They provide a natural canopy that keeps you cool on hot summer days but allows sunlight to filter through.
• Finally, evergreen shrubs are easy to care for. Whether you’re a busy woman or an elderly gardener, these trees are easy to maintain and don’t require working at high elevations.

1- You Can Enjoy Greenery All Year Round With A Few Fallen Leaves

There are two main trees to choose from: evergreen and deciduous.

Evergreen trees, such as pine and spruce, are perfect for a vibrant garden landscape. They keep their leaves all year round, replacing older ones.

So not only do they look great all year round, but they’re also easy to clean and maintain.

On the other hand, deciduous trees like maple and ginkgo put on a spectacular show in the fall with their red and yellow leaves.

But, once winter arrives, they shed all their leaves, and it can be a lot of work to keep up with the fallen leaves.

So, if you’re looking for a low-maintenance option that will keep your garden looking beautiful all year round, go for the evergreen trees.

But if you want to enjoy the fall foliage, deciduous trees might be the way to go.

2- Visual Barrier for Home without Blocking the Sunlight

Shrubs grow relatively slowly and require little maintenance. Even the tallest shrubs only reach about 6 feet, so pruning scissors can safely be used without needing a ladder. This makes it easy for women and the elderly to maintain them.

Tall trees may have a strong presence, but they can also be challenging to care for.

Pruning often requires using a ladder to reach the higher branches, which can present a risk of injury if the person isn’t familiar with the work.

Avoiding that risk can be as simple as choosing shrubs instead.

3- The Effortless Way to Add Greenery to Your Garden

Are you tired of struggling with towering trees that need regular maintenance?

Well, have no fear because shrubs are here! Not only do they grow at a leisurely pace, but they also require minimal effort to maintain.

With a maximum height of 2 meters, even the tallest shrubs can be easily pruned with a simple pair of scissors.

No more climbing up ladders for those hard-to-reach branches. These low-maintenance plants are perfect for busy women and older folk who want a little greenery without the hassle.

Now, don’t get us wrong, tall trees have a striking presence. But they can be a real pain to care for. In addition, regular pruning can often involve climbing ladders; if you’re not used to it, it can be dangerous.

So, why not opt for the safer and easier option with shrubs? Your arms and legs will thank you.

Strategies for Choosing Evergreen Shrubs

Are you ready to plant a tree in your backyard but overwhelmed by all the options? Don’t worry; I’ve got you covered!

1- Be Clear About The Purpose of Planting

When choosing the perfect tree for your garden, it’s essential first to clarify the purpose of planting it. 

• Do you want a tree that will bloom with beautiful flowers and leaves? 
• Are you in need of a visual barrier from the outside world? Or 
• You may want to plant a commemorative tree to celebrate your children’s growth. 
• You may be looking for a shady spot to relax during the summer or enjoy harvesting fruit with your family.

Once you have a clear idea of the role you want the tree to play in your garden, you can narrow down the types of trees you want and make your selection much more effortless. 

2- Decide Whether You Want Broad-Leaved Or Coniferous Trees

And speaking of narrowing down options, have you thought about whether you want a broadleaf tree or a conifer? 

Both evergreen trees have unique characteristics, so it’s essential to consider which one best suits your needs.

Evergreen broad-leaved tree	Evergreen coniferous
Flat, broad leaves	Long, slender needle-like leaves
Grows in a rounded shape	Grows straight upward in a conical shape
Low cold tolerance	Cold hardy

When choosing the perfect tree for your garden, it’s essential to know the difference between evergreen broad-leaved trees and conifers.

Evergreen broad-leaved trees, such as the English Boxwood, Rhododendrons, and Miniature Japanese Holly, are characterized by their flat, broad leaves and large leaf surface area.

As a result, these trees are perfect for providing visual privacy and are less likely to be attacked by pesky insects.

On the other hand, conifers, like pine and cedar, are characterized by their long, slender, needle-like leaves.

These trees are native to cool temperate to subarctic zones and can tolerate cold temperatures much better than their broad-leaved counterparts.

So, if you’re looking for a tree that can provide some privacy and is less likely to be attacked by bugs, an evergreen, broad-leaved tree might be the way to go.

But a conifer might be a better choice if you live in a colder climate and want a tree that can withstand colder temperatures.

It’s all about knowing the characteristics of each type of tree and choosing the one that best suits your needs.

And remember, it’s always fun to experiment and see what works best in your garden. 

3- Understanding The Space In Your Garden

When choosing the perfect tree for your garden, it’s important to remember that space is critical.

If your house is small, the area available for planting trees is inevitably limited, so it’s crucial to know how much space you have to work with.

When selecting trees, it’s easy to think that you only need enough space to plant since small saplings are often purchased and planted at first.

But let’s be honest; plants grow rapidly, and before you know it, that tiny sapling will be a towering tree.

So, it’s crucial to imagine whether there will be enough space for your tree even after it has grown to a large size.

Another thing to consider is that many people think about flat surfaces when thinking about space.

But plants grow vertically, so it’s essential to consider the height of the plant to ensure that it will not cover the windows of your house. Unless you’re going for the “Jumanji” look, in which case, go for it!

Finally, if the plant is to be planted near a neighbor’s property line, it’s essential to consider whether it will grow over the wall and overhang the neighbor’s house after it grows or whether its leaves will fall off, which could cause problems later.

Trust me; you don’t want to be the neighbor with the tree that drops leaves all over their driveway. So, planning and considering these factors before planting your tree is best.

Discover the Top Easy Care Evergreen Shrubs for Your Garden

I’ve got some great options for you. These evergreen shrubs have a slow growth rate, which means they thrive without frequent upkeep.

So give them a try and enjoy the beauty of evergreens with minimal effort.

1- Longstalk Holly (Ilex pedunculosa)

An evergreen tree that’s perfect for those who want a low-maintenance addition to their garden. This tree, part of the Moraceae family, produces small red berries in the fall.

It grows slowly and doesn’t become too big or branchy, so you don’t have to worry about constant pruning.

Plus, it will keep its shape even if you give it little attention. And the wavy foliage is a beautiful addition to any garden. So give Longstalk Holly a try and see how it enhances your outdoor space.

2-Evergreen Dogwood (Cornus capitata)

Small gardens, meet your new best friend: the evergreen dogwood tree! Unlike their deciduous counterparts, Himalayan dogwood takes the gardening world by storm thanks to selective breeding.

So expect it to grow slowly – even after ten years of TLC, it’ll only reach a high 3 feet or so. At least it’ll be an evergreen symbol tree that won’t tower over your garden!

3- Variegated Privet (Ligustrum sinense ‘Variegatum’)

Step aside, plain green shrubs! The Variegated Privet is here to add flair to your garden with its leaves.

They are a sight to behold and put on a show in the early summer with small, fragrant white flowers.

But beware, this fast-growing evergreen can reach heights of up to 10 feet if left to its own devices. So, if you want to keep it at a manageable 3 to 10 feet height, give it a good pruning.

4- Westringia

Meet Westringia, the evergreen shrub about to become your new favorite plant. It is part of the family Lamiaceae and genus Westringia, but it’s also known as “Australian rosemary” for its resemblance to Rosemary.

This beauty stands at about 5 feet tall, and if you give it a sunny spot in your garden, it’ll reward you with flowers all year round (except for mid-summer and mid-winter).

Its dense flowering and foliage make it a perfect plant for admiring and enjoying. So, give Westringia a chance and watch it shines in your garden.

5- Yeddo Hawthorn (Rhaphiolepis umbellata)

The Yeddo Hawthorn is a tree that’s always ready for a party – it’s an evergreen, after all! Moreover, as a member of the Rosaceae family, it’s got some serious horticultural style with its smaller leaves.

And the best part? It’s natural at keeping its shape, so you won’t have to lift a finger to prune it.

This tree may be small, standing at a mere 6.5-10ft, but it’s a slow grower. It only adds a measly 4-6.5 inches to its branches yearly.

But don’t let its lack of speed fool you – this tree knows how to make an entrance. Come April; it’ll be covered in pink flowers that make you want to snap a picture.

Plus, it’s always dressed to impress with its many leaves that’ll make a statement all year round. So, if you’re looking for a symbol tree for your shrubs, the Yeddo Hawthorn is the way to go.

6- Winter Daphne (Daphne odora)

Are you looking for a shrub that’ll make your neighbors jealous? Look no further than the Winter Daphne!

This evergreen bad boy stays green all year round and bursts into fragrant blooms in the spring.

And it’s not just any ordinary shrub; it’s one of the three most fragrant trees in the game, alongside the gardenia (summer bloomer) and the kumquat (fall bloomer).

You’ll be transported to a peaceful oasis with just one sniff of its sweet scent.

Standing at a proud 3 feet tall, the Winter Daphne has a compact and rounded appearance that requires zero special pruning.

Plus, it’s a long-term commitment, with a lifespan of 20 to 30 years. So, why not spend a long time with a tree that smells as good as it looks?

7- Paperplant (Fatsia japonica)

This evergreen belongs to the fancy Araliaceae family and boasts large leaves that can reach up to a foot in length! It’s the ultimate garden tree, combining the best Japanese, Asian, and Ethnic tastes.

Standing tall at 6 to 10 feet, the Paperplant is strong enough to thrive in the shade.

And just when you thought it couldn’t get any better, it blooms from November to December with a cluster of small white flowers at the tips of its stems.

Talk about a showstopper! Its vibrant foliage and curiously shaped flowers make it the perfect choice for the star of your garden.

Evergreen Shrub With Showy Flowers

Tired of having a dull garden? Want to add some flower power to your life? Evergreen shrubs with fashionable flowers stay green all year round and put on a show with their fancy flowers.

So, why settle for a dull garden when you can have a blooming masterpiece? Check out some of these trees with beautiful flowers.

1-Linnaea × grandiflora

Feeling like your garden is missing something? Meet Linnaea × grandiflora, the shrubby evergreen tree that’ll fill all your empty branches with small leaves and flowers.

This tree stands 3-5 feet tall, and the flowers come in various colors, such as white or pink.

But wait, there’s more! The Linnaea also offers a rainbow of leaf colors, including glossy green, white, cream-mottled, and red leaves.

It’s also a low-maintenance tree, almost resistant to insects and diseases, making it a popular choice for private gardens and parks.

So, why settle for a plain tree when you have a multi-colored, low-maintenance tree in your garden?

2- Rosemary

Need a herb garden and an ornamental garden in one? Meet Rosemary! This Mediterranean native is a shrubby evergreen tree that’s not only drought-tolerant and hardy but also a culinary delight.

You can use its leaves to spice up your meals, making it an excellent choice for those who want to grow plants and cook with them.

This tree won’t take over your garden, reaching a height of 6 feet or less. And if you’re looking for a groundcover, the creeping type of Rosemary is perfect.

The Rosemary also comes in various flower colors, mainly blue and light purple, but white and pink flowers are also available.

These vivid flowers will give your garden an English-style garden vibe. So why settle for a dull herb garden when you can have a beautiful and delicious one?

3- Japanese andromeda

Ready to add some color and flair to your garden? Look no further than the evergreen, compact shrub known as the Andromeda!

This little beauty will bring a symphony of changing colors to your yard with bright red new buds that turn orange-red, pale pink, and lush green.

And just when you think the show is over, it’ll surprise you with clusters of fragrant white flowers in the spring and summer.

With narrow, oval-shaped leaves that change color as they grow, it’s like getting a new plant every season.

But don’t let its small size fool you; it’s tough enough to handle just about any type of soil and weather.

It prefers acidic and moist soil but can tolerate any exposure and temperatures as low as 23°F.

This hardy shrub can reach 10-13 feet tall and 6 feet wide, providing an excellent compact addition to your garden.

Evergreen Shrub That Thrives In Shady Or Chilly Spots

Are you living in a shady or frosty area and feeling left out of the tree-loving club? Fret not!

I’ve got the inside scoop on trees that can handle the chill and thrive in less-than-sunny spots. Introducing the trees that can handle the shade and the cold like a boss.

1- Mahonia japonica

Get ready to add serious style to your yard with the Mahonia japonica, the evergreen tree that’s got it all! This tree is a true beauty with dark green, serrated leaves that look straight out of a designer’s dream.

But it doesn’t stop there- in the early spring, it treats you to a dazzling display of tiny yellow flowers that grow in spikes up to 4-6 inches long.

And just when you think it couldn’t get any better, it produces blackish-blue fruits that look like blueberries in early summer.

Talk about a tree that keeps on giving! Standing at about 6.5 feet, this tree is believed to bring good luck and ward off evil.

2- Chamaecyparis lawsoniana’ Ellwoodii’ (Lawson Cypress)

Introducing the Lawson Cypress, an evergreen coniferous tree like a superhero of the plant world. This tree is tall at 4 to 6 feet and is the perfect guardian for your garden.

It’s a horticultural variety developed in Europe and North America, and it doesn’t require much upkeep, making it an excellent option for busy gardeners.

You might have seen it as a mini Christmas tree or in a container garden, but it’s also perfect for providing privacy and blocking unwanted views.

Plus, it’s a member of the cypress family, so you know it’s got some serious style.

Evergreen Shrubs That Can Thrive In Pots

Don’t you have a big backyard? No problem! These two types of evergreen shrubs are perfect for small spaces or those who love potted plants. Just stick them in a pot, and voila! Instant greenery.

1- Ardisia crenata

Introducing the Ardisia crenata, or the Coral Berry, the party animal of the plant world with its bright red berries that’ll make any room pop.

This compact tree grows only about 3 feet tall and is a perfect choice for those with limited space.

But beware, this plant is a little diva and doesn’t like the cold. So if you’re planning to keep it in a pot, bring it inside during the winter.

And don’t skimp on the water; give it a good soak when the soil dries out to keep it happy and hydrated.

2- Aucuba 

Straight from Japan, the Aucuba is a plant that loves to party in the shade. Standing tall at around 6 feet, it’s perfect for pots and gardens.

It shows off its purple, cross-shaped flowers in the spring, and in the fall, it’ll give you a show with its oval-shaped red berries.

But be careful where you place it because this lush beauty can get a little sunburned if it’s in direct sunlight for too long.

Create A Stylish and Comfortable Garden with Evergreen Shrubs

Evergreen shrubs are all the rage in gardening because they’re low-maintenance and don’t take up too much space.

But before you go on evergreens, figure out what you want them for. Some have blooms, and others have fruit. But no matter what, evergreens can add style and comfort to your garden.