As we progress into the summer, we look for shrubs that will continue to bring color and interest into the landscape. Here are a few examples of late May-early June shrubs that are now in bloom.
Azalea Gibraltar- This outstanding azalea is in the Exbury group of hybrids. It is a deciduous shrub (loses its leaves in the winter) and it actually flowers before the leaves emerge. The color of the trusses (flowers) are bright orange and make a spectacular show in the late Spring. Plant Azalea Gibraltar in a partially shaded area or in filtered sunlight. They like well-drained, acidic soil that is enriched with organic materials such as compost. Because they are shallow-rooted plants apply a mulch around the base of the plant to keep the roots cool in the summer.
Deutzia gracilis- One of our favorite late Spring blooming plants is Deutzia. White blooming shrubs create such an impact in the garden and Deutzia is no exception. This dwarf shrub will eventually reach 3 feet tall and up to 4 feet wide. This one pictured was planted in front of our garden shop over 25 years ago and is still going strong. Deutzia becomes covered with fragrant white flowers in May and continues into June. It requires full sun to part shade and is very low maintenance.
Rhododendron ‘ Lemon Dream’- This beautiful Rhododendron has a very compact growth habit reaching only 2-3 feet in height and 3-4 feet in spread. The soft lemon-yellow flowers are large and very open almostcovering the entire plant when in bloom. As with all Rhododendron, this variety prefers rich, well-drained soil and a partially shaded location.
This unusual color and the compact growth makes this a wonderful addition to a small shaded garden.
