The Best Bushes for Zone 5

Japanese Boxwoods

• Japanese boxwoods (Buxus microphylla var. japonica) were introduced to the United States around 1890 and according to North Carolina State University, they are "the most adaptable of all boxwoods." Japanese boxwoods are excellent specimens to grow in a hedge and are easily pruned if you want them to grow more compact. They can also be pruned in square or rounded shapes, if desired. Japanese boxwoods grow well in both the shade and sun.

Witch Hazel Hybrids

• Witch hazel shrubs are known for their winter beauty and fortunately, witch hazel hybrids (Hamamelis x intermedia) are hardy down to Zone 5. They are large shrubs that typically grow about 15 to 20 feet tall. Their colorful fragrant flowers, which vary among cultivars, bloom during the mid- to late winter months. Grow witch hazel hybrids in full sun or in filtered sunlight.

Shrub Roses

• If you're looking to grow roses (Rosa spp.), shrub roses are cold tolerant and according to University of Minnesota, many are vigorous growers, need little care and are tolerant of most diseases. There are many low maintenance shrub roses to consider for Zone 5, including cultivars "Ballerina," "Champlain," "Lillian Gibson" and "Topaz Jewel." Shrub roses usually grow best in full sun.

Azaleas

• Azaleas are members of the Rhododendron genus and are long standing favorites among many gardeners. Their spring flowers are a staple in landscapes across America and fortunately, many hardy species and hybrids grow well in Zone 5. For example, the "Narcissiflora" is a hybrid with double yellow flowers, but if you want pink flowers, consider "Orchid Lights" and "Abigail Adams" cultivars. "Bixby" is a good choice for red flowers and if you already have a lot of color in your landscape "Avocet" produces white flowers with just a hint of pink. Grow azaleas in full to partial sun for the best flowers.