Shrubs can be deciduous or evergreen, meaning they will lose their leaves every fall (deciduous), or they can keep them throughout the winter (evergreen). Shrubs are generally broad-leaved deciduous plants. Evergreen shrubs can have broad-leaves or needles.

Shrubs are virtually carefree. In the natural style of landscape gardening, they are simply allowed to grow untended. In many landscapes, they are pruned in the spring or fall for ideal shape and to induce more compact growth. Some shrubs may have to be pruned after flowering to prevent cutting of next year’s flower buds. Shrubs are versatile and have many uses. They work great for hedges, screens, and background plantings. They are wonderful for foundation plantings around the house, deck, fence, and swimming pool. You may also use them as a specimen or ascent plant. Evergreen shrubs will provide year-round color to the landscape. Set a mood by choosing shrubs that flower or have special foliage characteristics.

Shrubs are an important feature of the landscape. Annuals and perennials are only around for part of the year, and even then, they are usually very small plants. Shrubs give a bulk and distinguished look to landscapes at eye-catching level.