Low Growing Shrubs
Low-Growing Shrubs for a Ground-Hugging Garden
A low-growing shrub is a type of shrub that has a compact and spreading growth habit, staying relatively close to the ground. These shrubs typically have a height ranging from a few inches to a few feet, making them ideal for ground covers, borders, or areas where you want to maintain a lower profile. They are often selected for their ability to create a lush and visually appealing carpet-like effect, adding texture and color to the landscape while requiring less maintenance than taller shrubs.
Here are some of our favorite Low-Growing Shrubs can thrive in the Bay Area's climate and provide an attractive and practical solution for various garden designs.
Please note that selection may vary by location
Abelia x grandiflora 'Kaleidoscope' PP
- Height: Typically reaches 2-3 feet in height with a spreading habit.
- Foliage: The leaves are variegated with a mix of yellow, green, and bronze colors, providing year-round interest.
- Flowers: Produces small, fragrant white flowers from summer to fall.
- Other Features: 'Kaleidoscope' is a compact, evergreen shrub that is drought-tolerant once established. It is known for its multi-colored foliage and attractive form.
Coleonema 'Sunset Gold'
- Height: Usually grows 2-3 feet tall with a spreading habit.
- Foliage: Features vibrant, golden-yellow foliage that adds color to the landscape.
- Flowers: Produces small pink flowers that bloom in clusters, typically in late winter to spring.
- Other Features: 'Sunset Gold' is an evergreen shrub with fine, needle-like leaves. It is drought-tolerant and can tolerate coastal conditions well.
Ceanothus 'Yankee Point'
- Height: Reaches a height of about 2-3 feet with a spreading habit.
- Foliage: Displays dark green, glossy leaves that provide an attractive backdrop.
- Flowers: Bears clusters of deep blue flowers in late spring to early summer.
- Other Features: 'Yankee Point' is a compact evergreen shrub that is drought-tolerant and attracts pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Correa Pulchella 'Wyn's Wonder'
- Height: Typically grows up to 2-3 feet tall with a spreading habit.
- Foliage: Features leathery, dark green leaves with silver undersides.
- Flowers: Produces pendulous, bell-shaped flowers in shades of pink or red, often with green-tipped petals. Blooms from late winter to spring.
- Other Features: 'Wyn's Wonder' is an evergreen shrub that is known for its tolerance of both coastal conditions and some shade. It attracts hummingbirds and is drought-tolerant once established.
Pieris Japonica
- Height: Can grow between 3-10 feet in height, depending on the variety.
- Foliage: Displays leathery, lance-shaped leaves that are often glossy and evergreen.
- Flowers: Bears drooping clusters of bell-shaped flowers in various colors, including white, pink, or red. Blooms in late winter to early spring.
- Other Features: Pieris Japonica is an attractive shrub that prefers acidic soil and partial shade. It adds an elegant touch to the landscape and is often used as a specimen or foundation plant.