I'm on the hunt for some shrub recommendations that fit a few criteria: they should be relatively small (no taller than 4 feet), thrive in a partially shaded, sheltered spot, and bloom in early spring. Also, I'm hoping to stick with plants native to the UK to add that cottage garden charm. I have loamy soil and I'm located in the south of England. Any suggestions?
2 Answers
Hebe is another solid choice! It fits your size requirement and can thrive in partial shade. Plus, it adds a nice pop of color to the garden. Keep in mind though that you might need to check which species are best suited for your soil and light conditions.
For a fragrant option, have you thought about the Mexican Orange Blossom? Although it’s not native, it fits the size requirement and boasts beautiful, scented white flowers. You could also look into Forsythia for its cheerful yellow blooms, which can be pruned to any height, or a dwarf Laburnum. Another non-native option could be Camelia; it’s quite versatile and looks lovely.