The Shrubs & Bushes of Virginia

The shrubs and bushes native to Virginia suitable for landscaping include a variety of species. Some grow throughout the entire state, while others are more common in the coastal plains located along the Atlantic Ocean.

Types

Among the shrubs growing native in Virginia and adapted to the climatic conditions of the region are types of holly species (Ilex), azaleas (Rhododendron), sumacs (Rhus), willows (Salix), spireas (Spiraea), viburnums (Viburnum) and several shrubs that yield berries, such as beautyberry, chokeberry, blackberry, dangleberry and huckleberry.

Uses

Some of the more versatile shrubs available for landscaping in Virginia include common elderberry (Sambucus canadensis), great rhododendron (Rhododendron maximum) and the highbush blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum). These species thrive under most growing conditions and fulfill a number of purposes. Shrubs of this nature are appropriate as a source of food and cover for wildlife, restoration of naturalized areas and as landscaping specimens.

Features

Virginia bushes have assorted features making them useful for landscaping. Mountain laurel (Kalmia latifolia) is evergreen, produces pinkish blooms and yields brown fruits that remain on the shrub through the winter. Witchhazel (Hamamelis virginiana) blooms late in the growing season during autumn, providing fall color after its leaves fall.

References

• Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation: Native Plants: Shrubs
• Missouri Botanical Garden: Kalmia Latifolia
• University of Connecticut Plant Database: Hamamelis Virginiana