Burgundy or red-leaved shrubs and trees

clematisdorset · 12 January

Do you have any favourite red/burgundy-leaves shrubs or trees, and do you think the effect of the sun changes their character. Do they look better in full sun and too gloomy in a shady area?

Ceres · 12 January

I have a bronze leafed tree that I grew from a fruit picked up on a local walk some years ago. I have no idea what it is but it's definitely in the prunus area (or not?). I had intended it as part of the hedge but the new maroon leaves and tiny white flowers in spring pushed me to let it grow. The leaves are more red when new and as summer gathers pace, there is more of a green tint to them as the sun scorches the back garden.

Plantminded · 12 January

Cotinus Grace is my favourite, better in a sunny spot where the leaves seem to radiate. I grew a darker purple variety but found it looked miserable most of the time, as was a dark leaved Sambucus, S. Black Tower. Some C.Grace photos:

Perki · 12 January

Cercis Forest pansy is hard to beat I'd like one in future . I do have a few other plants with dark leaves like phyocarpus - Ligularia - sambucas and a few other common plants . I prefer backlit with a evening sun it really makes the red pop .
Most dark foliage plant won't take a lot of shade the leaves will start turning green otherwise , less chlorophyll in the leaves so best with at least some sunlight .

AnniD · 12 January

A Nandina such as "Firepower" or "Obsessed" would be my suggestion.
I have one in what would probably be described as part shade outside the kitchen window. Even on a dull day like today it is like a beacon.
My only comment would be to try and find a sheltered spot if you can, they're not keen on cold winds.

Jess91 · 12 January

I have a Berberis harlequin, that's quite nice i think. It doesn't get much sun in winter but of course it's deciduous so doesn't really matter.

Spiky though!

Plantminded · 12 January

I also have a Nandina, N. Gulfstream, which is currently providing the only interest on my patio in a pot. It really does shine out, as @AnniD says! Also, if you like tropical plants, Ensete Maurelii is an excellent one in the sun, like stained glass! It will survive over winter in a garage or other shelter.

Nandina, followed by Ensete.

Image: https://us.v-cdn.net/6030279/uploads/editor/1l/rgqean6evzp5.jpeg

Fire · 12 January

I could mention cannas, but I won't as they are not shrubs.

AuntyRach · 12 January

I have a gorgeous red Acer (? ‘Bloodgood’ - inherited with garden) which is theoretically in the wrong place as south facing, but it is a beacon in the garden and tolerates the sun well. The reds change throughout the year too, from bright, to deep then into the Autumn russet then orange. It always looks stunning against a blue sky. I love looking up through it on a sunny day, so I suppose that effect would be lost in a shady corner.

The leaves in May.

GardenerSuze · 12 January

@Perki I love Cercis Forest Pansy but I have heard it mentioned on more than one occasion that it is short lived. It does seem to suffer from alot of pest and disease.
I also love Cotinus 'Grace' back lit by autumn sun it rivals the acers.

punkdoc · 12 January

Continus Grace is probably my favourite, has the great advantage that you can prune it really hard if needed.
I also have several dwarf purple leaved Berberis, which look great at the front of borders.
I am not so impressed with Physocarpus Diablo, although it is quite nice when in flower.

Burgundy or red-leaved shrubs and trees

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