Best Shrubs for Mid-Atlantic Gardens

Regional Gardening, Best Shrubs, Mid-Atlantic Gardening

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Hardy shrubs are important elements in Mid-Atlantic gardens. They add depth and character to any garden and not only provide lovely blooms, but also attractive berries, showy fall color, and food for the birds.

Selecting the right shrub variety might be daunting for Mid-Atlantic gardeners. If you are looking for beautiful, low-maintenance, and hardy plants that thrive in the Mid-Atlantic region, you may want to consider these top-performing shrubs which all won the Gold Medal Award of The Pennsylvania Horticultural Society. The goal of this program is to promote outstanding plants for Mid-Atlantic gardens. The program was originally conceived by nurseryman Dr. J. Franklin Styer, who realized gardeners needed to learn about superior plants for their landscapes. It identifies superior ornamental landscape plants that meet the growing conditions of the region and have proven their performance. When gardeners acquire a Gold Medal winner, they can be assured the plant will exhibit standards of excellence for pest and disease resistance, ease of growing, and beauty through many seasons, whether it be foliage, flower, form, or bark.

Below is the list of some prestigious shrub winners. As you will note, some of them have also received the prestigious Award of Garden Merit of the Royal Horticultural Society!

Guide Information

Hardiness	5 - 7
Heat Zones	3 - 6
Plant Type	Shrubs
Exposure	Full Sun, Partial Sun, Shade
Season of Interest	Spring (Early, Mid, Late), Summer (Early, Mid, Late), Fall, Winter
Maintenance	Low, Average
Water Needs	Low, Average
Soil Type	Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH	Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil Drainage	Moist but Well-Drained, Well-Drained
Characteristics	Cut Flowers, Fragrant, Plant of Merit, Showy
Attracts	Birds, Butterflies, Hummingbirds
Landscaping Ideas	Beds And Borders, Hedges And Screens, Small Gardens

Best Shrubs for Mid-Atlantic Gardens

Aesculus parviflora (Bottlebrush Buckeye)

Aesculus parviflora (Bottlebrush Buckeye) is a prized shade shrub with erect white flower panicles, red anthers, and pinkish filaments. The flowers attract hummingbirds and butterflies, blooming for weeks in early to mid-summer. Its palmate leaves open in bronze, turn dark green, and transform into shades of yellow in fall. Native to woodland areas in the southeastern United States.

Hardiness	4 - 8
Exposure	Full Sun, Partial Sun, Shade
Seasons	Summer (Early, Mid), Fall
Height	8' - 12' (240cm - 3.7m)
Spread	8' - 15' (240cm - 4.6m)

Aronia arbutifolia ‘Brilliantissima’ (Red Chokeberry)

Noted for its attractive glossy red berries and excellent red fall foliage color, Aronia arbutifolia ‘Brilliantissima’ (Red Chokeberry) is a deciduous shrub adding multi-season beauty to the garden. In spring, a profusion of white to light pink flower clusters appear along the branches. They are followed in late summer by abundant clusters of edible red berries that persist throughout fall and well into winter.

Hardiness	4 - 9
Exposure	Full Sun, Partial Sun
Seasons	Spring (Mid, Late), Fall, Winter
Height	6' - 10' (180cm - 3m)
Spread	3' - 5' (90cm - 150cm)

Callicarpa dichotoma (Purple Beautyberry)

Purple Beautyberry (Callicarpa dichotoma) is a compact deciduous shrub known for its striking display of purple berries that persist from late summer through winter. With elegant arching branches and cascading tips, it also produces small pink to lavender flowers in summer. The berries add bold color and contrast to the garden, complementing the elliptic green leaves that turn golden-yellow in fall.

Hardiness	5 - 8
Exposure	Full Sun, Partial Sun
Seasons	Summer (Early, Mid, Late), Fall
Height	3' - 4' (90cm - 120cm)
Spread	3' - 5' (90cm - 150cm)

Calycanthus floridus ‘Michael Lindsey’ (Carolina Allspice)

Known for its delightful fragrance, Calycanthus floridus ‘Michael Lindsey’ (Carolina Allspice) is a compact, well-branched deciduous shrub. Its reddish-brown, magnolia-like flowers emit a sweet and spicy scent in late spring to early summer. The lustrous, dark green foliage turns a beautiful golden-yellow in the fall. This cultivar is highly regarded for its abundant blooms and attractive foliage.

Hardiness	5 - 9
Exposure	Full Sun, Partial Sun
Seasons	Spring (Late), Summer (Early, Late), Fall
Height	6' - 10' (180cm - 3m)
Spread	6' - 10' (180cm - 3m)

Camellia japonica ‘Korean Fire’

Camellia japonica ‘Korean Fire’ is a robust and acclaimed Japanese camellia variety. It features abundant, single, deep red flowers with a striking golden-yellow center of stamens. Blooming from late season to spring, the vibrant flowers create a captivating contrast against the glossy dark green foliage. This camellia is exceptionally cold-hardy, thriving even in USDA Zone 6B.

Hardiness	6 - 9
Exposure	Partial Sun, Shade
Seasons	Spring (Early, Mid, Late)
Height	10' - 15' (3m - 4.6m)
Spread	5' - 8' (150cm - 240cm)

Clethra alnifolia ‘Hummingbird’ (Summersweet)

Clethra alnifolia ‘Hummingbird’ (Summersweet) is a compact, fragrant shrub that blooms in mid to late summer with white bottlebrush spikes. It attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. The dark brown fruits and golden-yellow foliage provide interest in fall. It thrives in shady locations and produces abundant blooms.

Hardiness	3 - 9
Exposure	Full Sun, Partial Sun, Shade
Seasons	Summer (Mid, Late), Fall
Height	2' - 4' (60cm - 120cm)
Spread	3' - 5' (90cm - 150cm)

Clethra alnifolia ‘Ruby Spice’ (Summersweet)

This compact and beautiful shrub features bright pink, fragrant flower spikes that last for up to six weeks in mid-late summer. With lustrous dark green leaves that turn a glowing yellow in fall, it provides great fall color. Plant it near a patio to fully enjoy its extremely fragrant blooms, which attract butterflies and hummingbirds.

Hardiness	3 - 9
Exposure	Full Sun, Partial Sun, Shade
Seasons	Summer (Mid, Late), Fall
Height	4' - 6' (120cm - 180cm)
Spread	3' - 5' (90cm - 150cm)

Cornus sanguinea ‘Midwinter Fire’ (Bloodtwig Dogwood)

Renowned for its winter interest, ‘Midwinter Fire’ Bloodtwig Dogwood (Cornus sanguinea) is a must-have for vibrant displays in the cold season. Its golden fall foliage gives way to stems that transition from yellow at the base to fiery orange and crimson at the tips. Fragrant white flowers attract butterflies, followed by dark purple berries that entice birds in summer.

Hardiness	4 - 7
Exposure	Full Sun, Partial Sun
Seasons	Spring (Early, Mid, Late), Summer (Early, Mid, Late), Fall, Winter
Height	5' - 6' (150cm - 180cm)
Spread	5' - 6' (150cm - 180cm)

Deutzia gracilis ‘Nikko’ (Slender Deutzia)

Compact and highly regarded, Deutzia gracilis ‘Nikko’ is an excellent choice for smaller gardens. This dwarf, rounded shrub boasts arching branches adorned with abundant clusters of brilliant white flowers in late spring to early summer. Its fine-textured green leaves turn burgundy in fall, and it is resistant to pests, deer, and tolerant of salt and clay soils. Award-winning and deserving of its reputation.

Hardiness	5 - 8
Exposure	Full Sun, Partial Sun
Seasons	Spring (Late), Summer (Early)
Height	1' - 2' (30cm - 60cm)
Spread	2' - 5' (60cm - 150cm)

Deutzia ‘Magicien’

With its captivating blend of pink and white star-shaped flowers, Deutzia ‘Magicien’ is a standout hybrid. This dense and upright shrub displays elegant arching stems adorned with abundant sprays of blooms in late spring to early summer. The lanceolate green leaves add to its appeal, turning a subtle burgundy in the fall. A delightful result of crossing Deutzia longifolia and Deutzia discolor.

Hardiness	5 - 8
Exposure	Full Sun, Partial Sun
Seasons	Spring (Late), Summer (Early)
Height	4' - 6' (120cm - 180cm)
Spread	4' - 6' (120cm - 180cm)

Enkianthus perulatus ‘J.L. Pennock’ (White Enkianthus)

Renowned for its stunning and long-lasting fall foliage, Enkianthus perulatus ‘J.L. Pennock’ (White Enkianthus) is a prized ornamental plant. Delicate white, urn-shaped flowers appear in spring before the leaves, but it’s the exceptional autumn color that steals the show. The finely serrated leaves transition from green to burgundy, eventually transforming into brilliant red or glowing yellowish-orange hues. A standout choice for vibrant fall displays.

Hardiness	6 - 8
Exposure	Full Sun, Partial Sun
Seasons	Spring (Late), Summer (Early), Fall
Height	5' - 10' (150cm - 3m)
Spread	5' - 8' (150cm - 240cm)

Fothergilla gardenii ‘Blue Mist’ (Dwarf Fothergilla)

With its unique blue summer foliage, Fothergilla gardenii ‘Blue Mist’ is a captivating deciduous shrub that adds year-round appeal to any landscape. In spring, fragrant creamy-white bottlebrush-like flowers adorn the compact mound before the oval leaves emerge. The frosty blue-green foliage provides a striking contrast in summer, and in fall, it transforms into a vibrant display of yellow, orange, and red.

Hardiness	5 - 8
Exposure	Full Sun, Partial Sun
Seasons	Spring (Mid, Late), Summer (Early, Mid, Late), Fall
Height	2' - 3' (60cm - 90cm)
Spread	2' - 3' (60cm - 90cm)

Hamamelis x intermedia ‘Diane’ (Witch Hazel)

Hamamelis x intermedia ‘Diane’ is the ultimate red-flowered Witch Hazel, a sizable deciduous shrub with a spreading form. It thrives in winter, boasting clusters of fragrant, red to copper-red flowers. Each flower exhibits 4 crinkled, ribbon-like petals with claret bases and a purple-red calyx. The broad, oval green leaves transition to stunning shades of yellow, orange, and red come fall.

Hardiness	5 - 9
Exposure	Full Sun, Partial Sun
Seasons	Fall, Winter
Height	8' - 12' (240cm - 3.7m)
Spread	10' - 15' (3m - 4.6m)

Hamamelis x intermedia ‘Pallida’ (Witch Hazel)

Hamamelis x intermedia ‘Pallida’ is a highly regarded Witch Hazel known for its profuse blooms, exceptional foliage, and stunning autumn colors. This hardy, medium to large shrub boasts dense clusters of intensely fragrant, bright sulfur-yellow flowers in late winter. The distinct flowers feature 4 curled, strap-shaped petals and red-purple calyces. The ascending branches are adorned with broad oval green leaves that transform into striking shades of yellow during fall.

Hardiness	5 - 9
Exposure	Full Sun, Partial Sun
Seasons	Fall, Winter
Height	9' - 12' (270cm - 3.7m)
Spread	9' - 12' (270cm - 3.7m)

Heptacodium miconioides (Seven Son Flower)

Native to China, Heptacodium miconioides (Seven Son Flower) is a captivating deciduous shrub with year-round interest. It features clusters of fragrant, creamy-white flowers in late summer to early fall, followed by showy purplish-red fruits. The large, heart-shaped leaves and peeling bark add to its charm. Attracts butterflies and hummingbirds. Disease-resistant.

Hardiness	5 - 9
Exposure	Full Sun, Partial Sun
Seasons	Summer (Late), Fall, Winter
Height	15' - 20' (4.6m - 6.1m)
Spread	8' - 10' (240cm - 3m)

Hydrangea arborescens ‘Annabelle’ (Smooth Hydrangea)

Beloved by gardeners, Hydrangea arborescens ‘Annabelle’ (Smooth Hydrangea) is an exceptional flowering shrub. Its large, rounded flower clusters, up to 12 in. across (30 cm), bring vibrant beauty to shady areas. Blooming for months, the flowers change from lime-green to brilliant white, then pale green, and finally tan in fall. Resistant to insects and diseases, Annabelle is ideal for mixed borders and stunning cut arrangements.

Hardiness	3 - 8
Exposure	Full Sun, Partial Sun
Seasons	Summer (Early, Mid, Late), Fall
Height	3' - 5' (90cm - 150cm)
Spread	4' - 6' (120cm - 180cm)

Hydrangea paniculata ‘Limelight’

Highly sought after, Hydrangea paniculata ‘Limelight’ is a vigorous and spreading deciduous shrub that showcases impressive cone-shaped flowers, reaching 6-12 inches in length. These abundant blooms change colors over time, transitioning from lime-green to creamy white, then deep pink, and finally to beige. The dark green leaves also transform into stunning shades of red during autumn, providing an enchanting display that lingers into winter.

Hardiness	4 - 8
Exposure	Full Sun, Partial Sun
Seasons	Summer (Mid, Late), Fall
Height	6' - 8' (180cm - 240cm)
Spread	6' - 8' (180cm - 240cm)

Ilex verticillata ‘Winter Gold’ (Winterberry)

Admired for its prolific fruiting, Ilex verticillata ‘Winter Gold’ is a slow-growing, upright-rounded shrub. This deciduous winterberry holly produces abundant greenish-white flowers in late spring, followed by glossy golden-peachy berries that persist throughout winter. The dark green leaves transform to a golden-bronze shade in fall. This female cultivar requires a male pollinator for fruit production.

Hardiness	3 - 9
Exposure	Full Sun, Partial Sun
Seasons	Spring (Early, Late), Summer (Early, Mid, Late), Fall, Winter
Height	5' - 8' (150cm - 240cm)
Spread	5' - 8' (150cm - 240cm)

Lagerstroemia indica Pink Velour® (Crape Myrtle)

Lagerstroemia indica Pink Velour® is a highly decorative crape myrtle with an extended blooming season, attractive exfoliating bark, and impressive autumn colors. Its vibrant magenta-pink flowers persist for months from midsummer to early fall, complemented by thick, leathery leaves that transition from burgundy red to purplish green and finally to orange-brown. Ideal as a specimen or foundation plant.

Hardiness	6 - 9
Exposure	Full Sun
Seasons	Summer (Mid, Late), Fall
Height	6' - 12' (180cm - 3.7m)
Spread	6' - 12' (180cm - 3.7m)

Physocarpus opulifolius ‘Diabolo’ (Common Ninebark)

Award-winning Physocarpus opulifolius ‘Diabolo’ is a striking purple-leaved ninebark cultivar with a graceful fountain shape and captivating exfoliating bark. Its abundant creamy-white flowers, delicately pink-tinged, form dense clusters in late spring, followed by drooping clusters of red fruit in fall. The deep purple, lobed leaves add further appeal, while the exfoliating bark reveals layers of reddish to light brown, enhancing the winter landscape.

Hardiness	3 - 7
Exposure	Full Sun, Partial Sun
Seasons	Spring (Late), Summer (Early)
Height	4' - 8' (120cm - 240cm)
Spread	4' - 8' (120cm - 240cm)

Prunus lusitanica (Portugal Laurel)

Prunus lusitanica (Portugal Laurel) is a beautiful evergreen shrub or small tree native to the Iberian Peninsula. It features glossy dark green leaves, deep rhubarb-colored stems, and fragrant white flowers in late spring. The flowers give way to small red cherries that turn dark purple in fall, attracting birds. Ideal for hedges, screens, and windbreaks.

Hardiness	4 - 9
Exposure	Full Sun, Partial Sun
Seasons	Spring (Early, Mid, Late), Summer (Early, Mid, Late), Fall, Winter
Height	20' - 30' (6.1m - 9.1m)
Spread	10' - 15' (3m - 4.6m)

Rhus typhina Tiger Eyes® (‘Bailtiger’)

With its ever-changing foliage, Rhus typhina Tiger Eyes® is a remarkable shrub. Its cut-leaf foliage starts as chartreuse in spring, turns bright yellow in summer, and develops stunning orange and scarlet hues in fall. The foliage beautifully contrasts with the purplish branches. In early summer, green-yellow flowers appear in cone-shaped clusters, followed by dark red fruit on female plants in fall.

Hardiness	5 - 8
Exposure	Full Sun, Partial Sun
Seasons	Summer (Early, Mid, Late), Fall
Height	3' - 6' (90cm - 180cm)
Spread	3' - 6' (90cm - 180cm)

Syringa meyeri ‘Palibin’ (Lilac)

Syringa meyeri ‘Palibin’ is a perfect choice for small gardens. This compact Korean Lilac is adorned with abundant lilac-pink single flowers in late spring to early summer, emitting a sweet fragrance. Its dark green leaves are resistant to powdery mildew, remaining attractive throughout summer and taking on a lovely reddish bronze hue in fall. This slow-growing lilac is highly urban tolerant.

Hardiness	3 - 7
Exposure	Full Sun
Seasons	Spring (Late), Summer (Early), Fall
Height	4' - 5' (120cm - 150cm)
Spread	5' - 7' (150cm - 210cm)

Viburnum ‘Eskimo’

Introduced by The United States National Arboretum in 1981, Viburnum ‘Eskimo’ is a stunning and compact shrub prized for its abundant creamy-white flowers in mid to late spring and its semi-evergreen foliage. The blossoms form dense snowball clusters and brighten the landscape. The leathery, glossy leaves emerge bright green and turn attractive shades of yellow, orange, and red in fall. This rewarding shrub is perfect for small gardens.

Hardiness	6 - 8
Exposure	Full Sun, Partial Sun
Seasons	Spring (Mid, Late), Summer (Early, Late), Fall
Height	4' - 5' (120cm - 150cm)
Spread	4' - 5' (120cm - 150cm)

Viburnum plicatum f. tomentosum ‘Shasta’ (Doublefile Viburnum)

Viburnum plicatum f. tomentosum ‘Shasta’ (Doublefile Viburnum) is a remarkable shrub that offers beauty throughout multiple seasons. In late spring, it showcases stunning, snow-white flowers in flat-topped clusters along its branches. These give way to abundant red fruits that turn black and provide a feast for birds. The dark green foliage turns burgundy red in fall. With its compact habit, ‘Shasta’ is an excellent choice for small gardens. Introduced by the U.S. National Arboretum in 1979.

Hardiness	5 - 8
Exposure	Full Sun, Partial Sun
Seasons	Spring (Late), Summer (Early, Mid, Late), Fall
Height	4' - 6' (120cm - 180cm)
Spread	9' - 12' (270cm - 3.7m)

Vitex agnus-castus ‘Shoal Creek’ (Chaste Tree)

Vitex agnus-castus ‘Shoal Creek’ is a fast-growing, low-maintenance deciduous shrub that brings vibrant color to the summer garden. Its upright habit and disease-resistant foliage showcase lovely palmate leaves with silvery undersides. Spectacular sprays of fragrant blue-violet flowers attract butterflies, hummingbirds, and bees, making it a delightful addition to any landscape.

Hardiness	6 - 9
Exposure	Full Sun
Seasons	Summer (Mid, Late)
Height	4' - 15' (120cm - 4.6m)
Spread	4' - 12' (120cm - 3.7m)

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Great Perennials for Mid-Atlantic Gardens

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While every effort has been made to describe these plants accurately, please keep in mind that height, bloom time, and color may differ in various climates. The description of these plants has been written based on numerous outside resources.