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Can anyone recommend a shrub?
Hello all you lovely gardeners!
I was wondering if anyone could think of or recommend a small structural shrub/hedge/tree (no bigger than 2-3 metres in height and 2 metres in spread).
Preferably evergreen or with all year round interest and needs to be of a compacted habit. It is to go in full sun with a slightly exposed position in coastal conditions.
I have an spot to fill and am very excited at the possibilities
Thank you x x
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Hi Caral. Junipers and some cupressus (not the dreaded Leylandii though 'shudder'). Maritime Pine - will grow quite large eventually. Some of the others can be kept in check. Tamarisk is good for coastal areas but unfortunately it is not evergreen.
Thanks Ladybird. I will look into those x x
Hi Verdun, I don't know what happened there but I have only just seen your reply.
I must say that really sounds like it would fit the spec I'm after.
I think that would look really good nor would be one I would have thought of.
Thank you x x
Abelia grandiflora has a long flowering season in the second half of the year. Mine has remained at two metres high for donkey's years. Humming-bird Hawkmoths love it!
Thanks Alan, I didn't know that about the moths is it scented too? Its a gorgeous looking shrub but not sure if it will be hardy enough in an unsheltered position.
Caral, it has a slight scent but not enough to get excited about. Mine has survived several very cold winters with no problem at all, admittedly with some shelter from west winds, so I wouldn't worry about hardiness.
Escallonia makes a good evergreen hedge for coastal gardens. Pink flowers in spring/summer.
I was going to suggest Escallonia too as it is good on the coast and resists salt winds. Apple Blossom is a nice variety with small shiny green leaves and apple blossom type flowers over a long period that the butterflies and bees like.