Shrub Love

For a solid two weeks, I absolutely could not get my mind off a new shrub I had stumbled across...Aesculus parviflora, aka Bottlebrush Buckeye. It was while researching small trees and shrubs for which to replace the Bush Honeysuckle that I became in awe of the majestic Bottlebrush, and I just had to have it.



The shrub will eventually reach a height of 8-12 feet with a spread of 8-15 feet, and it's a summer bloomer that thrives in shade. It took some effort, but I was able to locate one of these rare woody plants at Merrifield Garden Center, and for $99 it was mine. I planted it over the weekend, in a spot where it can reach its full potential and provide privacy for us when we are dining out on the deck. I can already visualize how spectacular it will look in its full glory.



I am so addicted to shrubs, and currently I am trying to resist the temptation to purchase a set of 3 DEUTZIA gracilis Chardonnay Pearls. Bluestone Perennials has listed this shrub for a mere $4.97, a price cut of 50%, during their Annual Clearance Sale. I do not have a place for more shrubs, yet I crave more shrubs like Chardonnay Pearls. Perhaps I can cram a few more varieties into my Woodland Border, which is really starting to come together. So far I have 3 Clethra Summersweet and 2 Viburnum shrubs set amongst the Redbuds.

Woodland Side Border