Choosing the right plant for your front yard is vital in creating a welcoming landscape.
The ideal plant should provide colorful and fragrant flowers, not need constant pruning, and has the perfect root system for sidewalks and driveways.
We have narrowed down 40 low-maintenance shrubs that tick all the features you are looking for. Let’s get to know them one by one.
1. Dwarf English Boxwood
| Scientific Name | Buxus sempervirens ‘Suffruticosa’ |
| Common Name | English Boxwood |
| Shade | Dappled Sunlight (Shade through upper canopy all day)Full sun (6 or more hours of direct sunlight a day)Partial Shade (Direct sunlight only part of the day, 2-6 hours) |
| Soil Type | ClayLoam (Silt)Sand |
| Growth Rate | Slow |
| Hardiness Zone | 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b |
| Woody Plant Leaf Characteristic | Broadleaf Evergreen |
| Unique Characteristic | Dense compact habit |
The dwarf Engling boxwood is easy to care for and disease resistant.
It has uniform evergreen leaves that grow in a dense, compact habit, making it a perfect fit for your landscaping needs.
It even blooms small white flowers during spring.
This plant is one of the toughest and most dependable shrubs for everyone’s front yard.
2. Rhododendron
| Scientific Name | Rhododendron |
| Common Name | Azalea, Rhododendron, Rosebay |
| Shade | Dappled Sunlight (Shade through upper canopy all day)Deep shade (Less than 2 hours to no direct sunlight)Partial Shade (Direct sunlight only part of the day, 2-6 hours) |
| Soil Type | High Organic MatterLoam (Silt)Sand |
| Growth Rate | Slow |
| Hardiness Zone | 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b |
| Woody Plant Leaf Characteristic | Broadleaf Evergreen |
| Unique Characteristic | Pink star-shaped flowers |
Rhododendrons produce attractive bright pink round shaped flowers on top of its broadleaf evergreen leaves, every spring to the summer season.
They are low-maintenance shrubs that grow well in acidic and other coarsely textured soils.
However, this plant has shallow root systems. In fact, it is suggested that they be planted 2 to 5 feet apart.
3. Rosemary
| Scientific Name | Salvia rosmarinus |
| Common Name | Anthos, Rosemary |
| Shade | Full sun (6 or more hours of direct sunlight a day) |
| Soil Type | High Organic MatterLoam (Silt)Shallow Rocky |
| Growth Rate | Medium |
| Hardiness Zone | 8a, 8b, 9a, 9b, 10a, 10b |
| Woody Plant Leaf Characteristic | Broadleaf Evergreen |
| Unique Characteristic | Needle-like leaves |
The rosemary is a broadleaf evergreen plant that belongs to the mint family.
Rosemary leaves are not only a popular kitchen spice but are also used to add fragrance to soaps and other cosmetic products.
It is easy to grow in loam or shallow rocky soil and can also take a lot of heat throughout the day.
In the summer, it blooms light purple flowers.
This great shrub will spruce up your front yard and give you access to rosemary spice anytime.
4. Loropetalum
| Scientific Name | Loropetalum chinense |
| Common Name | Chinese Fringe Flower, Fringe Flower, Loropetalum |
| Shade | Full sun (6 or more hours of direct sunlight a day) Partial Shade (Direct sunlight only part of the day, 2-6 hours) |
| Soil Type | ClayHigh Organic MatterLoam (Silt)Sand |
| Growth Rate | Medium |
| Hardiness Zone | 7b, 8a, 8b, 9a, 9b |
| Woody Plant Leaf Characteristic | Broadleaf EvergreenSemi-evergreen |
| Unique Characteristic | Round, multi-stemmed shrubDark purple to pink thin-petalled flowers |
Loropetalums are evergreen shrubs that will provide your front yard with dark purple to rosy pink thin-petalled flowers for most of the year.
They can also provide privacy to your house as they grow from 5 to 15 feet high.
Loropetalums have non-invasive root systems, making them safe to be developed near houses and driveways.
Apart from being a low-maintenance shrub, this plant is drought and deer resistant.
5. Creeping Juniper
| Scientific Name | Juniperus horizontalis |
| Common Name | Creeping Juniper |
| Shade | Full sun (6 or more hours of direct sunlight a day) |
| Soil Type | SandShallow Rocky |
| Growth Rate | Medium |
| Hardiness Zone | 3a, 3b, 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b, 9a, 9b |
| Woody Plant Leaf Characteristic | Needled Evergreen |
| Unique Characteristic | Mat forming and trailing shrub |
The Creeping Juniper spreads by layering and is often used in the medians of roadways. They can grow as high as 18 inches and spread up to 8 feet wide.
They also produce blue-green needle-like leaves, emitting a tangy yet sweet fragrance.
The Creeping Juniper is best planted along front walks and front yard slopes.
6. Lilac
| Scientific Name | Syringa vulgaris |
| Common Name | Common Lilac, English Lilac, French Lilac |
| Shade | Full sun (6 or more hours of direct sunlight a day) Partial Shade (Direct sunlight only part of the day, 2-6 hours) |
| Soil Type | ClayHigh Organic MatterLoam (Silt) |
| Growth Rate | Medium |
| Hardiness Zone | 3a, 3b, 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a |
| Woody Plant Leaf Characteristic | Deciduous |
| Unique Characteristic | Four-petalled purple flowers arranged in oval clusters |
Lilac is a deciduous plant with deep green foliage oppositely arranged on its stems.
On top of these stems bloom four-petalled purple flowers arranged in oval clusters from late spring to early summer.
The lilac plant can grow from 5 to 20 feet tall and spreads 6 to 12 feet wide.
It is recommended that they be planted around 15 feet apart in well-drained soil.
6. Camellia
| Scientific Name | Camellia japonica |
| Common Name | Camellia, Common Camellia, Japanese Camellia, Peony Camellia, Thea Japonica |
| Shade | Partial Shade (Direct sunlight only part of the day, 2-6 hours) |
| Soil Type | High Organic Matter |
| Growth Rate | Slow |
| Hardiness Zone | 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b, 9a, 9b |
| Woody Plant Leaf Characteristic | Broadleaf Evergreen |
| Unique Characteristic | Bright pink rose-like flowers |
The camellia is a broadleaf evergreen shrub with shiny deep green leaves.
This plant blooms from mid-fall to early spring with bright pink flowers.
It can grow from 2 to 30 feet tall and 2 to 10 feet wide, making them a good shrub for privacy.
The camellia japonica is best planted in soil with high organic matter and at least 5 feet apart.
7. Hosta
| Scientific Name | Hosta plantaginea |
| Common Name | August Lily, Funkia, Hosta, Plantain Lily |
| Shade | Deep shade (Less than 2 hours to no direct sunlight)Full sun (6 or more hours of direct sunlight a day)Partial Shade (Direct sunlight only part of the day, 2-6 hours) |
| Soil Type | High Organic MatterLoam (Silt) |
| Growth Rate | Slow |
| Hardiness Zone | 3a, 3b, 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b, 9a, 9b |
| Woody Plant Leaf Characteristic | Herbaceous shrub |
| Unique Characteristic | Low lying plant with ribbed leaves |
The hosta plant is a low-lying herbaceous shrub perfect for landscaping the front of your house. You can use this to layer with other tall plants for aesthetic purposes.
It has glossy ribbed leaves that grow in clusters from their base.
At the center of its foliage, the hosta produces purple flowers in clusters at the tip of the stalks. It blooms between May to September.
It is a slow-growing plant that grows well in loam or other well-drained soil.
8. Sunshine Ligustrum
| Scientific Name | Ligustrum sinense |
| Common Name | Chinese Privet, Common Privet |
| Shade | Dappled Sunlight (Shade through upper canopy all day)Full sun (6 or more hours of direct sunlight a day)Partial Shade (Direct sunlight only part of the day, 2-6 hours) |
| Soil Type | Garden soil with Alkaline (>8.0) |
| Growth Rate | Rapid |
| Hardiness Zone | 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b, 9a, 9b |
| Woody Plant Leaf Characteristic | Broadleaf EvergreenSemi-evergreen |
| Unique Characteristic | Compact shrub with yellow-green leaves |
The Sunshine Ligustrum is a compact evergreen shrub known for its ovate and glossy golden yellow leaves.
It also produces small white flowers and dark blue berries throughout the year.
This low-maintenance shrub can grow from 3 to 6 feet tall.
This plant can be used to contrast a green landscape. It can be planted in well-drained soil and a full-sun location.
9. Gardenia
| Scientific Name | Gardenia jasminoides |
| Common Name | Cape Jasmine, Cape Jasmine Gardenia, Cape jessamine, Gardenia |
| Shade | Dappled Sunlight (Shade through upper canopy all day)Full sun (6 or more hours of direct sunlight a day)Partial Shade (Direct sunlight only part of the day, 2-6 hours) |
| Soil Type | ClayHigh Organic MatterLoam (Silt)Sand |
| Growth Rate | Medium |
| Hardiness Zone | 7b, 8a, 8b, 9a, 9b, 10a, 10b, 11a, 11b |
| Woody Plant Leaf Characteristic | Broadleaf Evergreen |
| Unique Characteristic | White tubular flowers with sweet aromatic scent |
The Gardenia plant has glossy evergreen leaves arranged in whorls.
They produce white tubular flowers with a sweet aromatic scent during early summer.
Gardenias can grow from 2 to 8 feet tall. This plant prefers indirect sunlight and acidic soil.
10. Fire Power Nandina
| Scientific Name | Nandina domestica |
| Common Name | Chinese Sacred Bamboo, Heavenly Bamboo, Nandina, Sacred Bamboo |
| Shade | Dappled Sunlight (Shade through upper canopy all day)Full sun (6 or more hours of direct sunlight a day)Partial Shade (Direct sunlight only part of the day, 2-6 hours) |
| Soil Type | ClayHigh Organic MatterLoam (Silt)Sand |
| Growth Rate | Rapid |
| Hardiness Zone | 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b, 9a, 9b |
| Woody Plant Leaf Characteristic | Broadleaf Evergreen |
| Unique Characteristic | Red leaves during fall and winter |
The fire power nandina is a low growing broadleaf evergreen shrub. It is known for its red foliage during fall and winter.
They grow up to 2 feet tall and wide and can tolerate full sunlight.
It is drought tolerant and can be planted in clay, loam, or sand soil.
11. Dwarf Japanese Cedar
| Scientific Name | Cryptomeria japonica ‘Globosa Nana’ |
| Common Name | Dwarf Cryptomeria, Dwarf Japanese Cedar, Globosa Nana |
| Shade | Full sun (6 or more hours of direct sunlight a day) Partial Shade (Direct sunlight only part of the day, 2-6 hours) |
| Soil Type | ClayLoam (Silt)Sand |
| Growth Rate | Slow |
| Hardiness Zone | 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a, 9a, 9b |
| Woody Plant Leaf Characteristic | Needled Evergreen |
| Unique Characteristic | Awl-shaped needle foliage |
The dwarf Japanese cedar is an evergreen shrub known for its awl-shaped needle foliage. It is used for globe-shaped landscaping in gardens.
It has short leaves arranged around its branches in a spiral manner. It can grow from 4 to 6 feet and spread up to 4 feet.
This plant does not require pruning and is deer resistant.
12. Dwarf Flowering Hydrangea
| Scientific Name | Hydrangea macrophylla |
| Common Name | Bigleaf Hydrangea, French Hydrangea, Hortensia, Lacecap Hydrangea, Mophead Hydrangea, Snowball Plant |
| Shade | Dappled Sunlight (Shade through upper canopy all day) Deep shade (Less than 2 hours to no direct sunlight) Partial Shade (Direct sunlight only part of the day, 2-6 hours) |
| Soil Type | ClayHigh Organic MatterLoam (Silt)Sand |
| Growth Rate | Rapid |
| Hardiness Zone | 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b, 9a, 9b, 10a, 10b, 11a, 11b |
| Woody Plant Leaf Characteristic | Deciduous |
| Unique Characteristic | Periwinkle blue, pink or purple flowers |
Dwarf flowering hydrangeas are deciduous shrubs, suitable for front yards because of their large floral display.
They have flowers that grow in umbrella-shaped clusters of periwinkle blue, pink, or purple.
Dwarf hydrangeas grow from 1 to 4 feet tall, making them perfect as a flowering hedge.
13. Wintercreeper
| Scientific Name | Euonymus fortunei |
| Common Name | Climbing Euonymus, Japanese Euonymus, Spreading Euonymus, Wintercreeper, Winter Creeper, Wintercreeper Euonymus, Emerald and Gold |
| Shade | Dappled Sunlight (Shade through upper canopy all day)Full sun (6 or more hours of direct sunlight a day)Partial Shade (Direct sunlight only part of the day, 2-6 hours) |
| Soil Type | ClayHigh Organic MatterLoam (Silt)SandShallow Rocky |
| Growth Rate | Rapid |
| Hardiness Zone | 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b, 9a, 9b |
| Woody Plant Leaf Characteristic | Broadleaf EvergreenSemi-evergreen |
| Unique Characteristic | Yellow leaves with patches of green in the center |
The Wintercreeper is a low-growing evergreen shrub known for its glossy yellow leaves with green patches in the center.
They rapidly grow from 1 to 2 feet tall and spread up to 4 feet wide.
This plant also thrives in full sun and can grow in clay, loam, sand, or even shallow rocky soil.
The Wintercreeper is the perfect ground cover in your front yard, sidewalks, and driveways.
14. Winter Daphne
| Scientific Name | Daphne odora |
| Common Name | Dwarf Bay, Fragrant Daphne, Paradise Plant, Spurge Flax, Spurge Laurel, Winter Daphne |
| Shade | Full sun (6 or more hours of direct sunlight a day)Partial Shade (Direct sunlight only part of the day, 2-6 hours) |
| Soil Type | High Organic MatterLoam (Silt) |
| Growth Rate | Slow |
| Hardiness Zone | 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b, 9a, 9b |
| Woody Plant Leaf Characteristic | Broadleaf Evergreen |
| Unique Characteristic | Fragrant pink, white or lavender flowers |
The Winter Daphne is a broadleaf evergreen shrub.
It is recognizable by its deep green variegated leaves, where fragrant clusters of pink, white, or lavender flowers bloom.
Daphne odora can grow from 3 to 4 feet tall. This tiny, low-maintenance plant can be used as a flowering hedge, border, or entrance.
15. Inkberry
| Scientific Name | Ilex glabra |
| Common Name | Appalachian Tea, Gallberry, Inkberry, Shamrock |
| Shade | Full sun (6 or more hours of direct sunlight a day)Partial Shade (Direct sunlight only part of the day, 2-6 hours) |
| Soil Type | ClaySand |
| Growth Rate | Slow |
| Hardiness Zone | 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b, 9a, 9b, 10a, 10b, 11a, 11b |
| Woody Plant Leaf Characteristic | Broadleaf Evergreen |
| Unique Characteristic | Alternate, flat, spineless and oval-shaped foliage |
The inkberry is another low-growing broadleaf evergreen shrub known for its dark green spineless leaves.
It produces small white flowers during the spring and dark blue berries in the fall.
This plant can grow from 3 to 4 feet tall and has a naturally-rounded shape.
The inkberry can be used as a foundation line or evergreen hedge in your front yard.
16. Dwarf Japanese Black Pine
| Scientific Name | Pinus thunbergii |
| Common Name | Green Pine, Japanese Black Pine, Thurnberg Pine, Emery’s Dwarf |
| Shade | Full sun (6 or more hours of direct sunlight a day) |
| Soil Type | ClayHigh Organic MatterLoam (Silt)Sand |
| Growth Rate | Medium |
| Hardiness Zone | 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b |
| Woody Plant Leaf Characteristic | Needled Evergreen |
| Unique Characteristic | Dark green needle foliage |
The Dwarf Japanese Black Pine is a slow-growing evergreen tree.
It has symmetrical branches with short dark green needled leaves.
This pine tree also has abundant brownish-gray cones.
The Pinus thunbergii prefers full sun and well-drained soils, and does not require pruning.
17. Oregon Grape Holly
| Scientific Name | Berberis aquifolium |
| Common Name | Creeping Mahonia, Holly-leaved Barberry, Mountain Grape, Oregon Grape, Oregon Grapeholly, Oregon Grape Holly, Oregon Holly, Oregon Hollygrape, Tall Mahonia |
| Shade | Dappled Sunlight (Shade through upper canopy all day) Partial Shade (Direct sunlight only part of the day, 2-6 hours) |
| Soil Type | High Organic Matter |
| Growth Rate | Slow |
| Hardiness Zone | 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b |
| Woody Plant Leaf Characteristic | Broadleaf Evergreen |
| Unique Characteristic | Yellow flowers, glossy green leaves and blue berries |
The Oregon Grape Holly is a slow-growing broadleaf evergreen shrub and is a member of the barberry family.
It has compound leaves 2 inches long with ringed spiny teeth.
During spring, this plant blooms with fragrant yellow flowers and thereafter produces waxy blue berries.
It has an upright spreading habit that can grow from 3 to 6 feet tall and 2 to 5 feet wide.
They are the ideal low-maintenance shrub for foundation planting in your front yard.
18. Indian Hawthorn
| Scientific Name | Rhaphiolepis indica |
| Common Name | Indian Hawthorn |
| Shade | Full sun (6 or more hours of direct sunlight a day) |
| Soil Type | ClayLoam (Silt)Sand |
| Growth Rate | Rapid |
| Hardiness Zone | 8a, 8b, 9a, 9b, 10a, 10b |
| Woody Plant Leaf Characteristic | Broadleaf Evergreen |
| Unique Characteristic | Mounded cluster of pink or white flowers |
The Indian Hawthorn is a dense broadleaf evergreen shrub that blooms mounded cluster of pink or white flowers. It has leathery, thick, and lance-shaped leaves.
This plant also produces blue berries during the fall season.
It can grow from 4 to 6 feet tall. It is salt-tolerant and drought resistant.
It can brighten your front yard as a foundation planting, container plant, shrub border, or even an evergreen hedge.
19. Lawson Cypress
| Scientific Name | Chamaecyparis lawsoniana |
| Common Name | Lawson’s cypress, Port Orford cedar, Port Orford cypress |
| Shade | Full sun (6 or more hours of direct sunlight a day) |
| Soil Type | High Organic MatterLoam (Silt) |
| Growth Rate | Slow |
| Hardiness Zone | 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a, 8bs |
| Woody Plant Leaf Characteristic | Needled Evergreen |
| Unique Characteristic | Fern-like leaves with white marks underneath |
The Lawson cypress is a needled evergreen tree best known for its fern-like leaves with white markings underneath. Its foliage is soft, feathery, and yellow-green in color.
It has a narrow conical habit that grows slowly up to 4 feet tall and 2 feet wide. It does not require pruning and can tolerate full sun.
The Lawson cypress is widely used as an ornamental or hedging plant.
20. Forsythia
| Scientific Name | Forsythia suspensa |
| Common Name | Weeping Forsythia |
| Shade | Dappled Sunlight (Shade through upper canopy all day) Full sun (6 or more hours of direct sunlight a day)Partial Shade (Direct sunlight only part of the day, 2-6 hours) |
| Soil Type | Loam (Silt) |
| Growth Rate | Rapid |
| Hardiness Zone | 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b |
| Woody Plant Leaf Characteristic | Deciduous |
| Unique Characteristic | Bright yellow flowers from late winter to early spring |
The Forsythia is a rapid-growing deciduous shrub with a gracefully arching habit.
Forsythia suspensa blooms with a mass of yellow bell-shaped flowers with four petals from late winter to early spring.
This plant can grow from 4 to 5 feet and tolerate full sun. It thrives in urban environments and resists pests and plant-related diseases.
21. Korean Spice Viburnum
| Scientific Name | Viburnum carlesii ‘Compactum’ |
| Common Name | Korean Spice Viburnum |
| Shade | Full sun (6 or more hours of direct sunlight a day) Partial Shade (Direct sunlight only part of the day, 2-6 hours) |
| Soil Type | ClayLoam (Silt)Sand |
| Growth Rate | Slow |
| Hardiness Zone | 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, 7a, 7b |
| Woody Plant Leaf Characteristic | Deciduous |
| Unique Characteristic | Fragrant white flowers in globe-shaped clusters |
The Korean Spice Viburnum is a slow-growing deciduous shrub.
It blooms fragrant white flowers in globe-shaped clusters. In spring, these flowers open and show their light pink buds.
It has an upright habit that can reach from 4 to 5 feet tall and spreads up to 8 feet wide. It is also best planted in well-drained and slightly acidic soil.
This plant can be used as a foundation plant or placed near pathways and entrances so visitors can enjoy its fragrance.
22. Japanese Barberry
| Scientific Name | Berberis thunbergii |
| Common Name | Japanese Barberry, Thunberg’s Barberry |
| Shade | Full sun (6 or more hours of direct sunlight a day)Partial Shade (Direct sunlight only part of the day, 2-6 hours) |
| Soil Type | Clay |
| Growth Rate | Medium |
| Hardiness Zone | 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b |
| Woody Plant Leaf Characteristic | Deciduous |
| Unique Characteristic | Curvy branches with thorns at each node |
The Japanese Barberry is a deciduous shrub known for its arching and spiny branches.
This plant can grow from 4 to 6 feet tall. It has small leaves that turn from green to yellow and orange and read during the fall.
During winter, it produces red berries that can brighten up your front yard.
It can tolerate extreme weather conditions and requires full sun.
The Japanese Barberry can also be used as a hedge, border, barrier, or as accent plant.
23. Dwarf Japanese Pieris
| Scientific Name | Pieris japonica |
| Common Name | Andromeda Japonica, Fetterbush, Japanese Andromeda, Japanese Pieris, Lily-of-the-Valley Shrub, Pieris |
| Shade | Full sun (6 or more hours of direct sunlight a day) Partial Shade (Direct sunlight only part of the day, 2-6 hours) |
| Soil Type | High Organic Matter |
| Growth Rate | Slow |
| Hardiness Zone | 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b |
| Woody Plant Leaf Characteristic | Broadleaf Evergreen |
| Unique Characteristic | Fragrant white bell-shaped flowers hanging from the branches |
The Dwarf Japanese Pieris is another low-maintenance broadleaf evergreen shrub known for its chains of fragrant white bell-shaped flowers hanging from the branches.
It also has narrow lance-shaped deep green leaves that retain their color even during winter.
This compact shrub can grow up to 3 feet tall. They grow best in soil with high organic matter.
Because of its upright spreading habit, it can be used as a accent plant, hedge or for mass planting.
24. Oriental Paperbush
| Scientific Name | Edgeworthia chrysantha |
| Common Name | Oriental Paper Bush, Paperbush, Paperbush Plant |
| Shade | Full sun (6 or more hours of direct sunlight a day) Partial Shade (Direct sunlight only part of the day, 2-6 hours) |
| Soil Type | High Organic MatterLoam (Silt) |
| Growth Rate | Medium |
| Hardiness Zone | 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b, 9a, 9b, 10a, 10b |
| Woody Plant Leaf Characteristic | Deciduous |
| Unique Characteristic | Round yellow-white flower clusters |
The Oriental Paperbush is a deciduous shrub that is sought after for its round and fragrant yellow-white flower clusters.
Each inflorescence is 2 inches across and contains up to 40 flowers per head. It blooms from late winter to early spring.
This plant can grow from 4 to 6 feet tall and wide.
It is recommended that the Oriental Paperbush be planted in deep moist soil rich in high organic matter and with access to full sunlight.
25. Dwarf Korean lilac
| Scientific Name | Syringa pubescens subsp. pubescens |
| Common Name | Downy LilacHairy LilacKorean LilacMeyer Lilac |
| Shade | Full sun (6 or more hours of direct sunlight a day) Partial Shade (Direct sunlight only part of the day, 2-6 hours) |
| Soil Type | High Organic MatterLoam (Silt)Sand |
| Growth Rate | Slow |
| Hardiness Zone | 3a, 3b, 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b |
| Woody Plant Leaf Characteristic | Deciduous |
| Unique Characteristic | Fragrant lilac flowers and deep green foliage |
The Dwarf Korean lilac is a slow-growing deciduous shrub that produces fragrant lilac flowers in late spring.
It has a compact and rounded habit that grows from 4 to 5 feet tall, without the need for pruning.
Unlike traditional lilacs, this plant resists powdery mildew and is also deer resistant.
26. Summersweet Clethra
| Scientific Name | Clethra alnifolia |
| Common Name | Alderleaf Clethra, Alderleaf Pepperbush, Clethra, Coastal Sweet-pepperbush, Summersweet, Sweet Pepperbush |
| Shade | Full sun (6 or more hours of direct sunlight a day)Partial Shade (Direct sunlight only part of the day, 2-6 hours) |
| Soil Type | ClayHigh Organic MatterLoam (Silt)Sand |
| Growth Rate | Medium |
| Hardiness Zone | 3a, 3b, 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b, 9a, 9b |
| Woody Plant Leaf Characteristic | Deciduous |
| Unique Characteristic | Fragrant bottlebrush-shaped white flowers |
The Summersweet Clethra is a deciduous shrub known for its fragrant bottlebrush-shaped white flowers that bloom during summer.
It also has serrated and glossy deep green foliage, which turns yellow during the fall.
This shrub can produce flowers even in shady locations. It can grow from 3 to 8 feet tall and spread from 4 to 6 feet wide.
It is recommended that the Summersweet Clethra be planted where there is access to full sun or partial shade and in wet and acidic soil.
27. Dwarf Virginia Sweetspire
| Scientific Name | Itea virginica |
| Common Name | Itea, Virginia Sweetspire, Virginia Sweet Spire, Virginia Willow, Little Henry |
| Shade | Dappled Sunlight (Shade through upper canopy all day) Partial Shade (Direct sunlight only part of the day, 2-6 hours) |
| Soil Type | High Organic Matter |
| Growth Rate | Medium |
| Hardiness Zone | 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b, 9a, 9b |
| Woody Plant Leaf Characteristic | DeciduousSemi-evergreen |
| Unique Characteristic | Cylindrical spires of white flowers |
The Dwarf Virginia Sweetspire is a low-growing deciduous shrub. It features gracefully arching red-hued stems from which cylindrical spires of white flowers bloom during the spring season.
It reaches from 2 to 3 feet tall and wide. This shrub prefers damp to wet soil rich in organic matter and full sun exposure.
The Dwarf Virginia Sweetspire can be used to cover garden beds and borders.
28. Shrubby Cinquefoil
| Scientific Name | Dasiphora fruticosa |
| Common Name | Bush Cinquefoil, Shrubby Cinquefoil, Shrubby Potentilla |
| Shade | Full sun (6 or more hours of direct sunlight a day)Partial Shade (Direct sunlight only part of the day, 2-6 hours) |
| Soil Type | ClayLoam (Silt)Sand |
| Growth Rate | Slow |
| Hardiness Zone | 2a, 2b, 3a, 3b, 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b |
| Woody Plant Leaf Characteristic | Deciduous |
| Unique Characteristic | Bright yellow five-petalled flowers |
The shrubby Cinquefoil is a deciduous multi-stemmed compact shrub that blooms bright yellow five-petalled flowers. It is attractive to butterflies and bees.
The Dasiphora fruticosa can grow up to 4 feet tall and survive temperatures as low as -30°F. It is also deer resistant.
The shrubby Cinquefoil can be used as a foundation plant or flowering hedge for your front yard.
29. Little Princess Spirea
| Scientific Name | Spiraea japonica |
| Common Name | Bumald Spiraea, Goldmound Spiraea, Japanese Meadowsweet, Japanese Spiraea, Little Princess Spirea |
| Shade | Full sun (6 or more hours of direct sunlight a day) Partial Shade (Direct sunlight only part of the day, 2-6 hours) |
| Soil Type | ClayHigh Organic MatterLoam (Silt)Shallow Rocky |
| Growth Rate | Rapid |
| Hardiness Zone | 3a, 3b, 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b |
| Woody Plant Leaf Characteristic | Deciduous |
| Unique Characteristic | Arching branches with bright pink flower clusters |
The Little Princess Spirea is a low-growing deciduous shrub with mint green leaves and bright pink blooms from late spring to summer.
This shrub grows up to 30 inches tall and does not require pruning.
It naturally grows in a compact rounded form, making it a great accent plant or low hedge for your front yard.
30. Dwarf Mugo Pine
| Scientific Name | Pinus mugo |
| Common Name | Mugho Pine, Mugo Pine, Swiss Mountain Pine |
| Shade | Full sun (6 or more hours of direct sunlight a day) |
| Soil Type | Full sun (6 or more hours of direct sunlight a day) |
| Growth Rate | Slow |
| Hardiness Zone | 2a, 2b, 3a, 3b, 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b |
| Woody Plant Leaf Characteristic | Needled Evergreen |
| Unique Characteristic | Round-shaped needled leaves |
The dwarf Mugo pine is a slow-growing evergreen shrub, easily identified by its needled leaves and globe-shaped form.
It has emerald green leaves that retain their color even during winter.
It can grow up to 5 feet tall and is drought and deer resistant.
This shrub is best used as a low hedge for front yards and gardens.
31. Dwarf Hinoki Cypress
| Scientific Name | Chamaecyparis obtusa ‘Nana’ |
| Common Name | Dwarf Hinoki Cypress, ‘Nana’ Hinoki Cypress |
| Shade | Full sun (6 or more hours of direct sunlight a day)Partial Shade (Direct sunlight only part of the day, 2-6 hours) |
| Soil Type | ClayLoam (Silt)Sand |
| Growth Rate | Slow |
| Hardiness Zone | 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b |
| Woody Plant Leaf Characteristic | Needled Evergreen |
| Unique Characteristic | Fan-shaped leaves |
The dwarf Hinoki cypress is a slow-growing needled evergreen shrub. It is identified through its fan-shaped leaves.
This plant takes 10 to 15 years to grow up to 6 feet.
It is recommended to be placed where there is access to full sun or partial shade and in clay, loam, or sandy soils.
The dwarf Hinoki cypress can be used to add texture and dimension to your front yard and entryways.
32. Round Arborvitae
| Scientific Name | Thuja occidentalis |
| Common Name | American Arborvitae, Eastern Arborvitae, Eastern White Cedar, Northern White Cedar |
| Shade | Full sun (6 or more hours of direct sunlight a day) Partial Shade (Direct sunlight only part of the day, 2-6 hours) |
| Soil Type | ClayLoam (Silt) |
| Growth Rate | Slow |
| Hardiness Zone | 3a, 3b, 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b |
| Woody Plant Leaf Characteristic | Needled Evergreen |
| Unique Characteristic | Lacy foliage and round shape |
The round Arborvitae is another slow-growing needled evergreen shrub.
It is easily recognizable through its bright green lacy foliage that naturally grows in a round shape. It extends from 2 to 3 feet tall and wide.
The good news is that this shrub does not need pruning to maintain its shape.
The round Arborvitae can be used as an evergreen hedge or standalone shrub in your front yard.
33. Dwarf Globe Blue Spruce
| Scientific Name | Picea pungens ‘Compacta’ |
| Common Name | Dwarf Spruce |
| Shade | Full sun (6 or more hours of direct sunlight a day) |
| Soil Type | Well-drained soil |
| Growth Rate | Slow |
| Hardiness Zone | 3a, 3b, 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b |
| Woody Plant Leaf Characteristic | Needled Evergreen |
| Unique Characteristic | Light blue needled foliage |
The dwarf Globe Blue Spruce is a slow-growing evergreen shrub known for its light blue needled foliage and globe-shaped habit.
The Picea pungens ‘Compacta’ is densely branched and flat-topped and retains its color all throughout the year.
This shrub grows up to 4 feet tall and wide. It is drought, disease, and deer resistant.
It can be used as an accent plant or privacy screen in your garden or front yard.
34. Bird’s Nest Spruce
| Scientific Name | Picea abies ‘Nidiformis’ |
| Common Name | Bird’s Nest Spruce |
| Shade | Full sun (6 or more hours of direct sunlight a day) |
| Soil Type | ClayLoam (Silt)Sand |
| Growth Rate | Slow |
| Hardiness Zone | 3a, 3b, 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b |
| Woody Plant Leaf Characteristic | Needled Evergreen |
| Unique Characteristic | Curving branches with deep green needled leaves |
The Bird’s Nest Spruce is a slow-growing needled evergreen conifer.
It is known for having curving branches with dense, deep green needled foliage, giving it a bird’s nest ambiance. Hence, its name.
It naturally grows to a compact globe shape. It is also low maintenance and deer resistant.
The Bird’s Nest Spruce can be used as a border, ground cover, or divider for your front yard.
35. Rockspray Cotoneaster
| Scientific Name | Cotoneaster horizontalis |
| Common Name | Rockspray, Rockspray Cotoneaster |
| Shade | Full sun (6 or more hours of direct sunlight a day)Partial Shade (Direct sunlight only part of the day, 2-6 hours) |
| Soil Type | ClayLoam (Silt)Sand |
| Growth Rate | Slow |
| Hardiness Zone | 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b |
| Woody Plant Leaf Characteristic | Broadleaf EvergreenDeciduousSemi-evergreen |
| Unique Characteristic | Branches that grow in a herringbone pattern |
The Rockspray Cotoneaster is a slow-growing deciduous shrub.
It is known for its horizontal-spreading habit and branches that grow in a herringbone pattern.
They grow best in well-drained and loose soil and in full sun and partial shade areas. They are also drought-tolerant.
During spring, they bloom with clusters of red berries, which unfortunately causes stomach upset.
The Rockspray Cotoneaster can be used as a ground cover, foundation plant, or hedge for your front yard.
36. Fountain Butterfly Bush
| Scientific Name | Buddleja alternifolia |
| Common Name | Alternate Leaf Butterfly Bush, Fountain Butterfly Bush |
| Shade | Dappled Sunlight (Shade through upper canopy all day)Full sun (6 or more hours of direct sunlight a day)Partial Shade (Direct sunlight only part of the day, 2-6 hours) |
| Soil Type | ClayHigh Organic MatterLoam (Silt)Sand |
| Growth Rate | Medium |
| Hardiness Zone | 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b, 9a, 9b |
| Woody Plant Leaf Characteristic | Deciduous |
| Unique Characteristic | Lilac flower clusters on arching stems |
The Fountain Butterfly Bush is another low maintenance deciduous shrub.
It is easily recognizable through its gracefully arching stems, where clusters of fragrant small lilac flowers bloom.
They attract butterflies and hummingbirds but are deer resistant.
This shrub can grow from 10 to 12 feet tall and wide.
The Fountain Butterfly Bush is recommended to be planted in moist, well-drained soils and placed where there is full sun or partial shade.
The Fountain Butterfly Bush can be used as a foundation plant or shrub border for front yards.
37. Bottlebrush Buckeye
| Scientific Name | Aesculus parviflora |
| Common Name | Bottlebrush Buckeye |
| Shade | Dappled Sunlight (Shade through upper canopy all day) Partial Shade (Direct sunlight only part of the day, 2-6 hours) |
| Soil Type | High Organic Matter |
| Growth Rate | Slow |
| Hardiness Zone | 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b |
| Woody Plant Leaf Characteristic | Deciduous |
| Unique Characteristic | Long white flower clusters resembling a bottlebrush |
The Bottlebrush Buckeye is a slow-growing deciduous shrub that stands out with its Long white flower clusters resembling a bottlebrush.
Although it is deer resistant, this plant spreads vigorously and needs plenty of space to grow. It can reach up to 12 feet tall and wide.
They are best grown in moist, well-drained soil, with full sun or partial shade.
The Bottlebrush Buckeye can be used as an accent, specimen plant, or shrub border in gardens and yards.
38. Black Chokeberry
| Scientific Name | Aronia melanocarpa |
| Common Name | Black Berried Aronia, Black Chokeberry |
| Shade | Full sun (6 or more hours of direct sunlight a day) Partial Shade (Direct sunlight only part of the day, 2-6 hours) |
| Soil Type | ClayHigh Organic MatterLoam (Silt)SandShallow Rocky |
| Growth Rate | Slow |
| Hardiness Zone | 3a, 3b, 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b |
| Woody Plant Leaf Characteristic | Deciduous |
| Unique Characteristic | Fragrant white flowers and clustered berries |
The Black Chokeberry is an upright, slow-growing, deciduous shrub, easily identified through its fragrant white flowers and clustered shiny black berries.
This plant reaches 3 to 5 feet tall. It can separate different types of soil and survive with little water.
The Black Chokeberry is leggy, so that it can be used as a filler or background plantings for landscaping.
39. Witch Hazel
| Scientific Name | Hamamelis mollis |
| Common Name | Chinese Witchhazel, Witch Hazel |
| Shade | Dappled Sunlight (Shade through upper canopy all day)Full sun (6 or more hours of direct sunlight a day)Partial Shade (Direct sunlight only part of the day, 2-6 hours) |
| Soil Type | High Organic Matter |
| Growth Rate | Slow |
| Hardiness Zone | 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b |
| Woody Plant Leaf Characteristic | Deciduous |
| Unique Characteristic | Bright yellow flowers with long narrow crumpled petals |
The witch hazel is a slow-growing deciduous shrub. It is sought after for its fragrant bright yellow flowers and long, narrow, crumpled petals.
This shrub blooms from February to March. It spreads from 8 to 10 feet wide and reaches 9 to 14 feet tall.
It best grows in slightly acidic soil rich in organic content.
The witch hazel can be used as an accent plant to contrast evergreens, bricks, stones, or other woodland settings.
40. Texas Ranger
| Scientific Name | Leucophyllum frutescens |
| Common Name | Texas Barometer BushTexas Sage |
| Shade | Full sun (6 or more hours of direct sunlight a day) |
| Soil Type | Well-drained soil |
| Growth Rate | Rapid |
| Hardiness Zone | 8a, 8b, 9a, 9b, 10a, 10b |
| Woody Plant Leaf Characteristic | Evergreen |
| Unique Characteristic | Silver gray foliage, and pink flowers |
Last on our list is the Texas Ranger – a rapid-growing evergreen shrub known for its silver-gray foliage and pink or purple bell-shaped flowers.
It blooms during summer and can reach 5 to 8 feet tall and 3 to 5 feet wide.
This shrub can survive desert heat, drought, and strong winds and attracts hummingbirds. It grows best in well-drained soil and full sun.
Regular pruning is recommended to keep the shrubs vibrant and encourage flowering.
The Texas Ranger can be used in rock gardens, slopes, or as a screen for front yards.
Which of these low-maintenance shrubs have you used in your front yard? Share with us in the comment box. Happy planting!
