Shrubs vs. Trees: How to Tell the Difference and Choose the Right Plants

Distinguishing Woody Plants by Form

Trees typically have a single trunk with foliage on branches high up; shrubs have multiple stems of similar size and carry foliage to the ground. Some shrubs grow larger than small trees, so form matters more than height.

Selecting Shrubs by Role

• Structural filler: Large broadleaf evergreens like sweet olive (Osmanthus fragrans).
• Informal border/barrier: Review shrub samplers for dense, tough candidates.
• Exceptional blossoms: Rhododendron, lilac (Syringa).
• Interesting foliage: Gold dust plant (Aucuba japonica 'Variegata'), variegated tobira (Pittosporum tobira 'Variegata').

Planting Among Established Shrubs

• Minimize root disturbance: choose perennials over annuals; use small plants (4-inch or 1-gallon).
• Match water needs: don't pair thirsty lawn with drought-tolerant shrubs.
• Ground covers beneath shrubs should share similar moisture requirements.

Thoughtful selection and placement create harmonious, layered landscapes.