General Introduction of Shrubs

Shrubs play an essential role in home landscapes, and along with trees, they are considered the “bones” or foundation of a yard because of the structure they provide.

What is the Difference Between a Shrub, Bush, and Tree?

Simply speaking, trees are taller plants with a central stem, and shrubs are shorter and may have several stems that branch off just above the ground.

Getting more technical:

  • Trees are defined as woody perennials with one central upright stem larger than three inches in diameter. They are typically more than twelve feet tall and have a distinct head atop the stem or trunk.
  • Shrubs are also woody perennials that generally have a number of stems produced slightly above the soil line, with none exceeding three inches in diameter. They are usually less than twelve feet tall but can reach upwards of twenty feet or more, depending upon the species. Shrubs are also usually somewhat round in shape.

Now let’s talk about the difference between a shrub and a bush because they seem more complicated. According to the dictionary, a shrub is “a low usually several-stemmed woody plant,” and a bush is “a low densely branched shrub.” So it’s fair to assume the two terms are often used interchangeably for low-lying woody plants with numerous stems.

Understanding Deciduous Versus Evergreen Species

Now that the shrub/bush/tree question has been discussed, it’s time to talk about deciduous versus evergreen plants. Deciduous and evergreen shrubs differ in how the plant types adapt to different seasons.

  • Deciduous plants completely lose their leaves before winter or the dry season arrives in preparation to go dormant. Dormancy helps them reduce water loss and conserve water when it’s drier, allowing the plant to survive until more water is available in the spring.
  • Evergreen plants have leaves that stay green all year round and don’t drop in the fall. These shrubs have adapted to conserve water during certain times, and they do not need to drop their leaves. They may shed old leaves as needed throughout the year.
How can You Use Shrubs in Your Landscape?

Shrubs are versatile in your landscape, lending themselves to many different uses.

  • Create a privacy screen.
  • Stand as a living fence at the edge of your property.
  • Act as a sound barrier, or at least dampen nearby noises.
  • Work as a windbreak.
  • Stabilize the soil on slopes or other areas prone to erosion.
  • Reduce cooling bills by shading the house during the summer.
  • Bring color to the landscape with either flowers or their foliage.
  • Soften hardscapes (pools, patios, foundation).
  • Attract wildlife like birds and butterflies.
  • Increase your home’s curb appeal.