Most Common Subshrub
The Common lantana is a flowering plant that grows best in tropical environments. It spread outside the Americas when the Dutch brought it to Europe. The plant is generally regarded as an unwanted weed that reduces biodiversity. Additionally, it is toxic to livestock and harms the output of farmland.
Mexican orange (Choisya ternata) is a plant species native to the southern United States and Mexico. The Latin name Choisya ternata references the Swiss botanist Jacques Denis Choisy. The Mexican orange is known for its highly abundant and fragrant flowers.
Japanese meadowsweet is considered by many to be an invasive species due to its ability to spread rapidly, creating a dense thicket or hedge. The species traces its roots to Japan, Korea, and China and was introduced in other areas because of its attractive flowers. Use caution when planting to make sure that this shrub can be managed appropriately.
Mexican petunia (Ruellia simplex) is an evergreen herbaceous perennial recognized by its wrinkly, trumpet-shaped purple flowers. It is commonly cultivated as an ornamental plant. Due to its vigorous spreading ability, Ruellia simplex has become widely naturalized outside Mexico. It is considered an invasive species in many countries.
The evergreen Topped lavender shrubs flower in spring and summer, attracting bees and butterflies. They do well in landscaping or in pots. The flowers and leaves are fragrant and can be used for potpourri and essential oil. Interestingly, they also find use in insecticides.
Oregano (Origanum vulgare) is a herbaceous perennial plant closely related to marjoram. Ancient Greeks and Romans considered it a symbol of happiness. It is one of the most popular spice herbs, used in various cuisines all over the world. Oregano oil can be derived from the plant as well. Unfortunately, legal action has been required to stop suppliers of the oil from falsely claiming unproven health benefits.
While best known for culinary purposes, Garden thyme has historically seen use in embalming rituals and as incense. In the kitchen, it most often ends up as a flavoring herb or brewed in tea. Garden thyme was gifted to warriors in the Middle Ages because it was supposed to spur courage and energy.
Golden trumpet (Allamanda cathartica) is a plant species native to Brazil. Golden trumpet is mentioned in Flora Brasiliensis. It is the official flower of Canovanas, Puerto Rico. If this plant is not pruned, it can grow to a height of 20ft.
Cheery, bright yellow clusters of blooms on small mounding plants give this plant its name, Basket of gold. This striking plant grows well in average soil as long as it is well-draining and not over-fertilized. Basket of gold, or Aurinia saxatilis, works as a ground cover, in rock gardens, or trailing over the borders of flowerbeds. It is deer resistant and attractive to pollinators.
The Chaste tree (Vitex agnus-castus) is a flowering shrub that thrives in subtropical regions. While it prefers full sun, it can grow with partial shade and tolerate temperatures as low as -9°F. The Chaste tree has been cultivated in Europe dating back to ancient Greece. Modern use focuses on creating essential oils from the leaves and fruits.
Buddleja davidii, commonly known as Butterfly bush, is a fast-growing shrub native to East Asia. This vigorous plant is usually cultivated as an ornamental, due to its extravagant purple inflorescences. It carries the name Butterfly bush because its flowers are a valuable source of nutritious nectar for numerous butterfly species.
Oregon grape originates in western North America and flowers in early spring. The bark of the Oregon grape can be used to make a yellow dye, while the berries create a purple dye.
The Hydrangea paniculata is native to Japan and China. It is commonly used as a winter cultivated flower due to its hardiness. This small tree can grow between 1 to 5m with a maximum diameter of 2.5m. Its leaves contain cyanide and should not be ingested.
Common buttonbush can grow 6 to 12 feet tall in the wild, across many temperature zones. It grows around swamps, ponds, and streams, with ball-like white flowers and balls of fruit that resemble buttons. Though the foliage is poisonous to livestock, the fruit and nectar make good fodder for birds and insects, and ducks often use the plant to shelter their nests.
Multiflora rose (Rosa multiflora) is an ornamental climbing shrub native to East Asia. It produces a great number of flowers, which is the reasoning behind its specific epithet; multiflora means “many flowers.” The flowers are usually white, but some pink varieties can be found. Multiflora rose is considered a noxious weed in certain parts of the world.