1 Raspberry Sundae deutzia
DEUTZIA HYBRID, ZONES 5 TO 9
Unlike other deutzia varieties that grow 6 feet or taller, this compact, rounded cultivar grows 3 to 4 feet tall and wide. It features arching stems and large panicles of purple-pink flowers that attract bees and butterflies from midspring to midsummer.
Why we love it: The slightly fragrant flowers are white with pink edges, while the golden yellow foliage is a delightful treat in fall.
2 Midnight Wine Shine weigela
WEIGELA FLORIDA 'SMNWFMS', ZONES 4 TO 8
The beloved Midnight Wine shrub gets an update with this pick. Enjoy its dark, glossy leaves, and look for hummingbirds at the tube-shaped pink blooms that arrive in spring and last into early summer. Grow in a spot with full sun and watch it reach 1 to 11/2 feet high and 2 or more feet wide.
Why we love it: Deer are usually not a problem for this plant.
3 Little Quick Fire panicle hydrangea
HYDRANGEA PANICULATA, ZONES 3 TO 8
An award-winning dwarf version of the popular Quick Fire panicle hydrangea, this features creamy white flowers that age to attractive hues of deep pink. It matures at just 3 to 5 feet tall and wide, and can even be grown in a container.
Why we love it: As the name suggests, it fires up flowers quickly, blooming a month before most panicle hydrangeas, and it extends the hydrangea season.
TIGHT-SPACE STARS Some hydrangeas are especially suited for smaller spots in a landscape. Try Tiny Tuff Stuff mountain hydrangea, Invincibelle Wee White smooth hydrangea or Little Quick Fire panicle hydrangea, depending on your region.
4 Bollywood azalea
RHODODENDRON 'FARROW', ZONES 6 TO 9
This story is from the February/March 2024 edition of Birds & Blooms.
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This story is from the February/March 2024 edition of Birds & Blooms.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
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