Landscape Plants of the Midwest

Burning Bush

• The Euonymous plant family, also known as the Burning Bush, offers both evergreen and deciduous shrubs. The Burning Bush is very appropriate for the climate zones of the Midwest and is not hindered by drought or dry soil. Full sun exposure and well drained soil is ideal for this plant, though partial shade is tolerated. Plant height ranges from 3 feet to over 8 feet depending on the variety. The vibrant red foliage of the Burning Bush in the fall makes it a popular landscaping plant.

Rhododendron

• Rhododendrons are broad leaf evergreens most commonly used as flowering shrubs in landscaping. These plants do best in sun and partial shade and should be shielded from excessive wind. Many of Rhododendrons grow to about 3 feet making them popular selections where small to medium sized plants are desired. Blossoms grow in colors in various shades of white, pink and purple, though new hybrids and colors are popping up all the time. The colorful blooms in the spring and summer make Rhododendrons attractive in landscape borders.

Hydrangea

• The large round clusters of flowers on the Hydrangea plant make it a very striking show flower for any landscape design where volume is desired. Hydrangeas are deciduous shrubs that can grow to 3 feet in small varieties and very large, over 20 feet, in others. The larger varieties will require a support system, such as a trellis. Partial sun and full shade are preferable for this plant as well as drained soil. Acidity levels in the soil will need to be monitored. Hydrangeas blossom in the summer and fall with colors ranging from white, blue, red and pink. The blossoms of the Hydrangea are perfect for cutting.

Virginia Sweetspire

• Virginia Sweetspires are deciduous shrubs that blossom in the summer and turn shades of red and purple in the fall. Sun and partial shade will be tolerated as will exposure to some drought. Sweetspires prefer well drained soil and soil acidity levels will need to be monitored. Fragrant blossoms bloom in the summer and will attract birds and butterflies. The vibrant fall foliage of the Sweetspire makes it a popular choice for cool weather Midwest gardens seeking to extend color as long as possible. Landscapers will enjoy using Sweetspire varieties to fill in flower beds.