7 Creative Ways to Rethink Shrubs in Your Landscape Design

Shrubs often default to foundation plantings or walkway edges—but these versatile woody plants offer so much more. From variegated foliage to wildlife habitat, formal geometry to wild naturalism, here are seven fresh approaches to designing with shrubs.

1. Choose Variegated Cultivars

White or creamy yellow leaf margins brighten shade gardens and add contrast. Try variegated Tatarian dogwood (Cornus alba 'Elegantissima', zones 2–8), Ivory Halo dogwood (C. a. 'Bailhalo', zones 3–7), or variegated wayfaring tree (Viburnum lantana 'Variegatum', zones 4–8).

2. Design for Bird Habitat

Birds nest, forage, and shelter in shrubs. Berry-producing species (like winterberry, Ilex verticillata, zones 3–9) feed overwintering birds. Plant near water; combine with other wildlife-supporting plants. Note: Some berries toxic to kids/pets—research before planting.

3. Group Varied Sizes of One Species

Plant the same small broadleaf evergreen (e.g., littleleaf boxwood Buxus microphylla, zones 5–9; 'Golden Gem' Japanese holly Ilex crenata 'Golden Gem', zones 5–8) at different heights, pruned into spheres. Higher maintenance but whimsically modern—especially with clean-lined paving.

4. Channel the French Parterre

Low clipped hedges in geometric patterns create formal structure while accommodating looser plantings within. Adapt the potager concept with edibles, or use as seasonal annual borders.

5. Create Symmetry

Shrubs excel at bringing order to rectilinear spaces. Precisely plan spacing and pruning for minimalist (clipped boxwoods) or looser symmetrical arrangements. Place containerized plants first to perfect alignment.

6. Mix Formal and Wild

Flank flowing perennial meadows with woody shrubs for year-round structure. Understory/woodland shrubs with spreading forms create naturalistic designs that bridge cultivated and wild aesthetics.

7. Prioritize Seasonal Interest

Redtwig dogwood (Cornus sericea, zones 2–7) blazes crimson against winter snow. Many deciduous shrubs offer fiery autumn color (red, yellow). Select for multi-season performance beyond just flowers.