You might already know that not all plants are suitable for all climates. And this is what the division in USDA hardiness zones helps you understand: each zone has weather that might be more or less ideal for growing certain plant species. Of course, choosing
varieties that won’t struggle in your region can help you minimize issues when growing your plants.
But what are the best evergreen shrubs for zone 6? If you need some inspiration, keep reading! Indeed, we collected some of our favorite options in this essential guide!
Evergreen Shrubs Zone 6
So, you live in zone 6 and need an evergreen shrub that won’t struggle even when it freezes outdoors? You have landed in the right place to make a decision! Keep reading to know about what options there are at your disposal! The good news is that the choice is vast, so you will have no issues finding something that suits your needs and preferences!
Firethorn
Firethorn is a relatively easy-to-grow shrub that produces attractive tiny white flowers and orange to red berries that persist through the winter. So, if you want an evergreen with year-round beauty, this might be your best option. You can grow it either as a tall shrub or a small tree. Indeed, it can reach heights of about 16 to 18 feet tall!
Juniper
Juniper is a popular evergreen ornamental you can grow in most regions. It will thrive in USDA hardiness zone 6 and won’t require much attention from your side. Indeed, they are one of the few shrubs that don’t need pruning to maintain their shape.
Also, junipers adapt to most climates. You can find these shrubs in more than 150 varieties. So, you won’t have issues picking one that suits your needs and requirements.
Leatherleaf Viburnum
Another relatively carefree shrub you must consider adding to your garden if you live in USDA hardiness zone 6 is the leatherleaf viburnum. All you have to do is plant this shrub in a well-draining and fertile soil. Also, these plants are excellent for filling shady locations. Indeed, even in low-light conditions, the leatherleaf viburnum produces masses of creamy blossoms followed by red berries. Consider pruning your plant after the blooms fade to boost flower production over the following season.
Rhododendron
Do you need to add an elegant touch to your garden? Then, you must think about planting a rhododendron! This acidic-loving woody shrub produces brightly colored clusters of flowers and performs excellently in USDA hardiness zone 6. Rhododendron does much better in partial shade, and you can use them as hedges, screens, foundations, or plant them in containers.
Oregon Grape
Oregon grape is a native North American evergreen shrub that will provide you with lasting beauty throughout the year. In the spring, it will delight you with bright yellow tiny flowers.
Plus, in the flowering season, plenty of beneficial pollinators will visit your garden! Then, you’ll enjoy the dark-blue berries in late summer, followed by shiny green foliage. In the fall, the shrubs’ leaves will turn bronze-red.
You will have a little issue growing this shrub in USDA hardiness zone 6. However, avoid exposing it to the full sun, which might scorch its foliage!
Red-Tipped Photinia
The red-tip photinia needs you to pay attention to its needs, contrary to other shrubs we included in this essential guide. You must prune this shrub frequently to increase airflow, prevent the spread of fungal infections, and minimize pest attacks. Also, you must pay attention to your watering schedule: this plant is highly susceptible to overwatering!
But, putting some effort into growing a red-tipped photinia in your garden will be worth it! After all, the shrub displays unique-looking foliage. The young leaves are deep red and turn dark green as they mature. One of the downsides of this shrub is that its flowers release a not-so-pleasant odor that pushes many gardeners to prune the plant before the blooming season. However, the foliage is worth the “work”!
Texas Star Hibiscus
If you want to attract butterflies and hummingbirds to your garden, there might not be a better choice than planting a Texas Star Hibiscus. This plant is winter hardy to USDA zone 6 and is native to the swamplands of North America. Locate it under the full sun to enjoy its star-shaped flowers that could be white or bright red.