Late Summer Blooming Shrubs
It is no secret that the majority of garden color occurs in spring and early summer. However, some shrubs and perennials flower later in the summer. Focusing on shrubs, here are seven of our favorites –
Crape Myrtle (Lagerstroemeria) – Grown either as a shrub or small tree, Crape Myrtles are tough and extremely showy in late summer when flowers appear. Flower colors come in reds, pinks, lavender and white. They bloom best in hot summers. In addition to the gorgeous flowers, fall color is fantastic and the bark is attractive, especially when it begins to age.
Bluebeard (Caryopteris) – This small shrub, growing 2-3 feet, surprises in late summer when it bursts into bloom with violet-blue flowers. Green, gray, and variegated-leaved varieties are available. A sunny location is preferred.
Rose of Sharon (Hibiscus syriacus) is a large shrub (sometimes as tall as 10 feet) with hollyhock-like flowers that begin to appear in late July and August. Easy to grow in full sun, flower colors usually appear in blues, pinks and white. (Photo courtesy Monrovia Nurseries)
Tree Mallow (Lavatera) – Another plant with flowers resembling hollyhocks, Lavatera is easy to grow and rewards with long-lasting blooms. Flower colors come in reds, pinks and white. (Look for this plant in our Perennials section) (Photo by AlHikesAZ on VisualHunt)
Hydrangea paniculata – Hydrangea flowers are extremely long-lasting. Late summer is the prime time for the “panicle” type hydrangeas. These cone-shaped flowers start out white (or greenish-white) and fade to shades of pink as they age. Panicle hydrangeas like sun, unlike their macrophylla (mophead) counterparts. (Photo by F.D. Richards on VisualHunt)
Fuchsia – Fuchsias are often thought of as pot plants but many varieties can survive in the ground. Several varieties will attain shrub-like proportions, especially Fuchsia magellanica which grows into a large mound and is covered with tiny red flowers. Fuchsias benefit from afternoon shade. (Look for this plant in our Perennials section)
Butterfly Bush (Buddleja) – Valued for their long-blooming period and butterfly-loving blooms, shrubs can be quite large. However, newer varieties sport dwarf growing habits. (Photo by Monrovia Nurseries)
