The Shrubs & Bushes of Virginia

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.