Best Evergreen Shrubs For Colorado (2024 Update)
If you’re looking for the best evergreen shrubs for Colorado, it’s important to consider a few factors before making your purchase. Colorado’s varying climates and elevations can make it a tricky place to grow plants.
First, you’ll want to think about what type of soil you have and whether your chosen shrub can thrive in it. Some shrubs may prefer well-draining sandy soils, while others may thrive in heavier, clay soils. Additionally, consider the amount of sun and shade in your yard. Does the spot you have in mind for your shrub get full sun all day, or is it more shaded?
It’s also important to think about how much maintenance you’re willing to put into caring for your shrub. Some evergreen shrubs require more pruning and trimming than others, so consider your time and energy levels before making your choice.
If you’re still not sure where to start, ask yourself some questions to get a better idea of what you want. Do you want a shrub that blooms seasonally or one that maintains its color all year round? Are you looking for something that attracts pollinators, or do you have pets that may be affected by certain plants? By considering your priorities and preferences, you’ll be more likely to find the perfect evergreen shrub for your Colorado yard.
10 Best Evergreen Shrubs For Colorado
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The product is ideal for outdoor landscaping with evergreen shrubs or small trees and glossy-green foliage.
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Ideal for outdoor gardens in full sun to part sun locations, featuring compact evergreen foliage with beautiful pink blooms.
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Ideal for outdoor landscaping, with needle-like evergreen foliage that thrives between full sun and part shade.
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This product is ideal for ground cover in shady areas due to its evergreen shade-loving properties.
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The product is ideal for adding unique, globe-shaped foliage to landscape designs.
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This product is ideal for adding evergreen foliage and blueberries to your outdoor landscape.
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Ideal for small gardens or areas with limited space, growing a compact evergreen tree that reaches only four feet tall.
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Ideal for adding color and texture to any garden or landscape with its unique foliage and compact evergreen shrub form.
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Ideal for small spaces or dwarf landscapes due to its maximum height of only 4 feet.
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This product is ideal for landscaping and adding visual interest to outdoor spaces with its unique shape and blue-green foliage.
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1. Glossy-Leaf Ligustrum: Evergreen Beauty For Outdoors!
The Wavy Leaf Ligustrum, also known as the Crinkle Leaf Ligustrum, is a fast-growing evergreen shrub that is highly sought after for its versatility and aesthetic appeal. This popular shrub can be trained or limbed out into a small tree, and boasts waxy, dark green foliage that is complemented by small, white, fragrant flowers.
One of the most attractive features of the Wavy Leaf Ligustrum is its multifunctional nature. It can be used as a specimen plant, clipped hedge, or privacy screen, and is often grown in mass. The flowers of this shrub are highly aromatic and attract a wide variety of birds and butterflies.
While Ligustrum's are fast-growing shrubs that can add as much as 25 inches of growth per year, this also means that they require frequent pruning to keep them under control. As soon as the blossoms begin to fade, buds for the next season begin forming, leaving a small window of opportunity for pruning. However, this shrub can withstand severe pruning, making it an easy plant to maintain.
Suitable for USDA zones 7-10, the Wavy Leaf Ligustrum is winter hardy and can tolerate temperatures as low as 30°F. This shrub thrives in full sunlight and requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. Additionally, there is no need to put a huge focus on the condition of your soil with this plant. Water thoroughly twice per week until established, then water once per week. As the bush ages, it will become more and more drought tolerant and easily adapts to a variety of soil conditions.
2. Pink Blooming Dwarf Loropetalum – Live Outdoor Plant
The Loropetalum Chinese 'ppi' Pp25471, available for shipping in all states except Hawaii and Alaska, is a beautiful addition to any garden or landscape. This plant, from the Southern Living Plant Collection, boasts vibrant pink blooms in the spring and is a perfect accent to any outdoor space.
This particular variety of Loropetalum is hardy in USDA zones 7-10, and can reach a mature size of 2-3 feet in height and 3-4 feet in width. It is shipped in a pot with soil, ready to be planted in well-conditioned soil. To ensure optimal growth, it is recommended to provide direct access to sunlight and to mulch the bed. Watering the plant 3-4 times a week will help it thrive in its new environment.
3. Dwarf Mondo Grass – 40 Live Plants – Shade Loving Evergreen Ground Cover Ophiopogon Japonicus Nanus
Introducing the Dwarf Mondo Grass, a perennial evergreen grass that provides a lush groundcover of dense, dark green grass-like clumps. What sets this variety apart is its size, as it is only half the size of other grasses. Its slow and clumping growth habit reaches a height of 4-6 inches with a width of 4-6 inches, making it the perfect ornamental grass for rock gardens, seashore plantings, borders, and groundcovers.
Not only is this grass visually striking, but it is also low-maintenance. It requires a regular water schedule to establish a mature root system, and after that, watering is needed occasionally, except during a drought when watering is needed regularly. To maintain a well-groomed appearance, pruning old foliage is recommended.
While similar in appearance to the commonly used Lilyturf, the Dwarf Mondo Grass has thinner leaves and a finer texture. This grass is perfect for edging or tucked into rocks to provide pleasing contrast. It is also striking in mass plantings in the landscape.
Rest assured that this grass is grown, packaged, and shipped exclusively by Florida Foliage. Choose the Dwarf Mondo Grass for a beautiful and easy-to-maintain addition to your landscape.
4. Globosa Colorado Blue Spruce – Globe Spruce – Live Plant
Introducing the stunning Colorado Blue Spruce, now available in a globe-shaped selection that is sure to impress any garden enthusiast. This particular variety is a dwarf type, growing only up to 5 feet tall, making it perfect for smaller gardens or as a statement piece in larger landscaping projects.
Not only is the Colorado Blue Spruce visually appealing, but it is also extremely hardy and can withstand even the harshest of winters in zones 2-8. This makes it an excellent choice for those living in colder climates who still want to enjoy a beautiful garden all year round.
One of the best things about this plant is that it is low maintenance and easy to grow, making it perfect for both novice and experienced gardeners alike. With just a little bit of care, this 1-year-old plant will reach its full height of 5 feet at maturity, adding a touch of elegance and sophistication to any outdoor space.
When you order this Colorado Blue Spruce, it will arrive in a container with soil, ensuring that it is healthy and ready to thrive in its new home. With its impressive parameters, including its hardiness and low maintenance needs, this plant is a must-have for anyone looking to elevate their garden or landscaping project. Order yours today and enjoy the beauty and benefits of the Colorado Blue Spruce for years to come.
5. Ilex X Meserveae 'blue Princess' (Blue Holly) Evergreen, #3 – Size Container
This plant arrives fully rooted and ready for immediate planting, provided that the weather allows. Along with the shipment, customers will receive detailed instructions on how to plant and care for the plant. For optimal growth, it is recommended to plant in zones 5-8.
Once mature, this plant can reach a height of 12 feet and a spread of 9 feet. Beautiful red berries will appear in late fall to early winter, complemented by dark green, evergreen foliage. To ensure berry production, a male pollinator is necessary.
This plant thrives in both full sun and partial shade, making it versatile for a range of environments. With proper care, this plant will bring vibrant color and lush foliage to any garden.
6. Montgomery Dwarf Blue Picea- Grows Only 4 Feet Tall – 3 Year Live Plant
Introducing the striking Blue Spruce, the perfect addition to any smaller garden that requires little maintenance. This slow-growing and compact tree is small and somewhat globular in its early years, but eventually grows to become a wide-spreading cone. The powder-blue needles of the Blue Spruce are very striking and will add a unique touch to any garden.
This versatile tree can be a flat globe or an upright conical dwarf, making it a great choice for a variety of garden designs. The Blue Spruce is also very hardy, suitable for planting in zones 2-8.
When you purchase this 1-year-old plant, you can expect it to reach a height of 4 feet at maturity. It will be shipped in its original soil and will be dormant from November through May.
7. 'evergreen Red Obsession – By Southern Living'
If you're looking for a beautiful, compact evergreen shrub to add to your garden, the Nandina domestica 'Seika' PP21891 might be just what you need. With its striking variegated red foliage, this shrub is sure to make a statement in any landscape. As an added bonus, the foliage matures to a deep green color and shows off beautiful fall foliage colors.
This shrub thrives in hardiness zones 6-10 and prefers full sun to partial shade. It can also tolerate a variety of well-drained soils. Once established, it is both drought and cold tolerant, making it a great option for areas with harsher climates. Additionally, this shrub is not known to attract deer, making it a low-maintenance option for those living in areas with heavy wildlife.
The Nandina domestica 'Seika' PP21891 has a dense, upright growth habit, making it perfect for use as a hedge or border plant. Its cultivar name, 'Seika', translates to 'sacred fire' in Japanese, which is fitting given the vibrant red color of its new growth.
Please note that due to state regulations, this plant cannot be shipped to AK, AZ, CA, CO, HI, ID, MT, NM, NV, OR, UT, WA, or WY. All orders to these states will be automatically cancelled.
8. Montgomery Dwarf Colorado Blue Spruce – Grows Only 4 Feet Tall – 1 Year Live Plant
Introducing a stunning addition to any garden, the Slow-Growing Bright Blue Spruce. This compact plant is ideal for those seeking low maintenance options for smaller gardens. Its small and globular shape in the early years eventually transforms into a wide-spreading cone, making it a perfect fit for those looking for a plant that can adapt to different garden sizes.
The bright blue color of the needles is a standout feature of this plant, adding a touch of vibrancy to any landscape. The Slow-Growing Bright Blue Spruce can take on either a flat globe or an upright conical dwarf shape, making it an incredibly versatile option for any garden.
This plant is hardy in zones 2-8, making it a suitable option for a wide range of climates. At maturity, the 1-year plant will reach a height of 4 feet, making it an excellent addition to any garden looking for a plant that can provide height to the landscape.
When you order the Slow-Growing Bright Blue Spruce, it will be shipped in a container with its original soil. Please note that the plant will be dormant from November to May, and this is perfectly normal.
9. Lollipop Globosa Colorado Blue Spruce – Globe Spruce – Live Plant
Introducing a unique and charming addition to any garden or landscape: the Colorado Blue Spruce Lollipop Globe. This plant boasts a distinctive globe shape and is a fantastic choice for those who love dwarf trees. Standing at a mere 5 feet tall, it is perfect for smaller spaces and won't overpower other plants.
One of the most impressive features of the Colorado Blue Spruce Lollipop Globe is its resilience. This tree is incredibly hardy and can survive even the most extreme cold weather conditions – making it a great choice for those living in colder regions. It can thrive in zones 2-8, making it a versatile choice for gardeners across the country.
Another great benefit of this plant is its ease of care. The Colorado Blue Spruce Lollipop Globe is a low-maintenance option that requires minimal upkeep. It's also incredibly easy to grow, making it a great choice for gardeners of all levels.
When you order the Colorado Blue Spruce Lollipop Globe, you'll receive a live plant that is shipped in a container. This ensures that your tree arrives in the best possible condition and is ready to be planted right away.
Best Evergreen Shrubs For Colorado FAQs
Are there any evergreen shrubs that attract wildlife to Colorado gardens?
Yes, there are several evergreen shrubs that can attract wildlife to gardens in Colorado. One such shrub is the Rocky Mountain juniper (Juniperus scopulorum), which is known for providing cover and nesting sites for birds like the mountain bluebird, western bluebird, and cedar waxwing. Another option is the Douglas fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii), which provides food and shelter for birds and small mammals like squirrels and chipmunks.
Other evergreen shrubs that can attract wildlife include the chokecherry (Prunus virginiana), which produces berries that are a food source for birds and small mammals, and the mountain mahogany (Cercocarpus montanus), which provides cover and food for birds like the mountain quail and sage grouse.
It's important to note that attracting wildlife to gardens can have both benefits and drawbacks, so it's important to research the specific species and their potential impact before planting. Additionally, it's important to ensure that any planting is in compliance with local regulations and ethical considerations.
Are there any evergreen shrubs that can provide year-round color in Colorado's changing seasons?
Yes, there are a few evergreen shrubs that can provide year-round color in Colorado's changing seasons. One of the most popular evergreen shrubs is the Colorado blue spruce. It has a beautiful blue-green color and can grow up to 75 feet tall, making it a great choice for a privacy screen or windbreak. Other evergreen shrubs that can provide year-round color include the dwarf alberta spruce, which has a conical shape and grows up to 12 feet tall, and the juniper, which comes in a variety of colors and shapes and can grow up to 30 feet tall. Another great option is the wintergreen boxwood, which has small, glossy leaves that stay green all year round, and can grow up to 4 feet tall. The key is to choose evergreen shrubs that are well-suited to Colorado's climate and soil conditions, and to plant them in a location that receives plenty of sunlight and is protected from harsh winter winds.
Can you recommend evergreen shrubs that thrive in Colorado's high altitude?
Yes, there are several evergreen shrubs that can thrive in Colorado's high altitude. Here are some recommendations:
1. Alpine Currant – This shrub is very hardy and can grow up to 6 feet tall. It has small green leaves and produces clusters of red berries in the fall.
2. Dwarf Blue Spruce – This shrub is a slow grower and typically reaches a height of 4-6 feet. It has a blue-green color and produces cones in the fall.
3. Russian Sage – Although not technically an evergreen, this shrub has silvery gray leaves that provide winter interest. It can grow up to 4 feet tall and produces lavender-colored flowers in the summer.
4. Juniper – There are many varieties of juniper that can thrive in Colorado's high altitude. They range in size from groundcovers to large shrubs and have a variety of colors, including blue, green, and gold.
5. Yew – This shrub has dark green foliage and can grow up to 6 feet tall. It produces red berries in the fall, but be aware that the berries are toxic if ingested.
When selecting evergreen shrubs for Colorado's high altitude, it's important to choose varieties that are hardy and can tolerate cold temperatures and wind. It's also important to ensure that the soil is well-drained, as many evergreens do not tolerate wet soil conditions.
Can you suggest evergreen shrubs that require minimal maintenance in Colorado?
Colorado's climate can be challenging for plants due to its dry and fluctuating weather conditions. However, some evergreen shrubs can thrive with minimal maintenance. Here are some suggestions:
1. Boxwood – This popular shrub is low-maintenance and can tolerate Colorado's cold winters. It requires regular watering and pruning to maintain its shape.
2. Juniper – Juniper shrubs are tough and can tolerate drought-like conditions. They also come in various sizes and shapes, making them versatile for landscaping.
3. Dwarf Alberta Spruce – This compact shrub is slow-growing, making it easy to maintain. It requires regular watering and pruning to keep its shape.
4. Russian Sage – This shrub has fragrant foliage and requires minimal care. It prefers well-draining soil and needs occasional pruning to keep its shape.
5. Yew – Yew shrubs have an attractive dark green color and can tolerate a range of soil types. They require regular watering and pruning to maintain their shape.
Before selecting any shrub, ensure that it is suitable for your specific location and growing conditions. Also, be sure to plant them in well-draining soil and provide adequate water and sunlight.
What are the best evergreen shrubs for Colorado's harsh winter climate?
Colorado's harsh winter climate can be challenging for many shrubs, but there are several evergreen varieties that can thrive in this type of environment. One of the best options is the Colorado Blue Spruce, a native evergreen that is known for its silvery-blue needles and conical shape. It is extremely hardy and can withstand extreme cold temperatures and high winds.
Another great option is the Dwarf Alberta Spruce, which is a compact evergreen with a conical shape and soft, green needles. It is also very hardy and can tolerate cold temperatures and dry conditions.
The Mountain Mahogany is another excellent evergreen shrub that can survive Colorado's harsh winters. It has dark green foliage and produces small, white flowers in the early summer. It is also drought-tolerant and can thrive in rocky, mountainous areas.
Other evergreen shrubs that can withstand Colorado's harsh winter climate include the Dwarf Mugo Pine, the Russian Sage, the Yucca, and the Juniper. When selecting evergreen shrubs for your Colorado garden, be sure to choose varieties that are native to the area and can tolerate the specific soil and climate conditions.
What are the best evergreen shrubs for rocky or sandy soils in Colorado?
The best evergreen shrubs for rocky or sandy soil in Colorado are those that are adapted to the specific conditions of this region. Some of the most popular evergreen shrubs for rocky or sandy soils in Colorado include Junipers, Pinyon Pine, Mountain Mahogany, and Gambel Oak. These shrubs are native to the area and are well-suited to Colorado's dry and arid climate.
Junipers are an excellent choice for rocky or sandy soils, as they are drought-tolerant and can thrive in harsh conditions. Pinyon Pine is another great option, as it can grow in rocky or sandy soils and provides excellent winter interest with its blue-green needles. Mountain Mahogany is a beautiful evergreen shrub that grows well in rocky or sandy soils and is known for its attractive silver-gray foliage. Finally, Gambel Oak is a hardy evergreen shrub that can grow in rocky or sandy soils and provides excellent wildlife habitat.
When selecting evergreen shrubs for rocky or sandy soils in Colorado, it's important to choose plants that are adapted to the specific conditions of the region. By selecting the right plants, you can create a beautiful and low-maintenance landscape that will thrive for years to come.
What are the top evergreen shrubs for Colorado gardens?
Colorado gardens require evergreen shrubs that can tolerate the harsh winter conditions. Here are some of the top evergreen shrubs for Colorado gardens:
1. Dwarf Korean Lilac: This shrub is a hardy and low maintenance plant that produces fragrant purple flowers in spring.
2. Juniper: Junipers are drought-tolerant and can survive in Colorado's dry climate. They come in different varieties and offer different textures and colors.
3. Boxwood: Boxwoods are slow-growing shrubs that are easy to shape and maintain. They are also deer-resistant, making them ideal for Colorado gardens.
4. Yew: Yews are evergreen shrubs that can grow up to 20 feet tall. They produce red berries in the fall and are drought-tolerant.
5. Holly: Holly shrubs are known for their glossy green leaves and bright red berries. They are also deer-resistant and can tolerate Colorado's cold winters.
When choosing evergreen shrubs for your Colorado garden, consider their growth rate, size, and hardiness to ensure they can thrive in your specific area.
Which evergreen shrubs are most drought-tolerant in Colorado?
Colorado is known for its dry and arid climate, which makes it challenging to grow many types of plants. However, some evergreen shrubs can thrive in drought conditions. Here are some of the most drought-tolerant evergreen shrubs in Colorado:
1. Rocky Mountain Juniper: This shrub is native to Colorado and can tolerate dry conditions. It has blue-green foliage and can grow up to 15 feet tall.
2. Russian Sage: This shrub has silvery-gray foliage and produces purple-blue flowers. It can grow up to 5 feet tall and is drought-tolerant.
3. Yucca: This tough shrub has spiky leaves and produces white flowers. It can grow up to 10 feet tall and is drought-tolerant.
4. Dwarf Mugho Pine: This shrub has dark green needles and can grow up to 3 feet tall. It is drought-tolerant and can thrive in poor soil conditions.
5. Blue Spruce: This evergreen tree has blue-gray needles and can grow up to 60 feet tall. It is drought-tolerant and can withstand cold temperatures.
Overall, these evergreen shrubs are some of the most drought-tolerant options for Colorado gardens. However, it's essential to choose plants that are well-suited to your specific climate and soil conditions for the best results.
Which evergreen shrubs offer the most vibrant colors in Colorado?
Colorado's climate can be harsh for many plants, but there are several evergreen shrubs that can thrive while offering vibrant colors year-round. One of the most popular choices is the Japanese Barberry, which comes in several cultivars with colors ranging from bright red to deep purple. Another great option is the Colorado Blue Spruce, which has striking blue needles that remain vibrant all year long. The Dwarf Alberta Spruce is also a favorite due to its dense foliage and bright green color. Other evergreen shrubs to consider include the Yew, which has dark green needles and red berries, and the Boxwood, which has small, glossy leaves that can range from green to yellow. Ultimately, the best choice will depend on your specific needs and preferences, but these are some of the most vibrant and reliable options for evergreen shrubs in Colorado.
Which evergreen shrubs work well as privacy screens in Colorado landscapes?
There are several evergreen shrubs that work well as privacy screens in Colorado landscapes. One of the best options is the Colorado blue spruce, which is native to the area and can grow up to 75 feet tall. Another popular choice is the Ponderosa pine, which can also reach heights of up to 75 feet and has a distinct, attractive bark. Other evergreen shrubs that can be used for privacy screens in Colorado include the Rocky Mountain juniper, which has a unique, twisted growth pattern and can grow up to 30 feet tall, and the Austrian pine, which has a more compact growth habit and can reach heights of up to 60 feet. It is important to consider factors such as size, growth rate, and soil and sun requirements when selecting evergreen shrubs for privacy screens in Colorado, as well as any potential pest or disease problems. Consulting a local horticulturist or landscape professional can be helpful in making the best selection for your specific needs and location.
