Evergreen trees and shrubs to consider

Evergreen trees and shrubs to consider

Evergreen trees and shrubs have constant interest and are therefore an ideal choice if you are looking for screenage. Many of our customers visit us with concerns about privacy issues whether it is from a new build, to replace any trees or shrubs that have been removed or died or a neighbour’s extension for example.

Because evergreen trees and shrubs keep their foliage all year round, (but they naturally shed some foliage that will be replenished with fresh, new growth) they can also act as a natural focal point to your garden. Depending upon the variety you choose, you can also grow your tree or shrub in a container. However, if you choose this option, do remember that the plant will need to be removed from its pot every other year, so that you can cut back 10% of the root system and refresh the growing medium. This will keep your plant healthy.

Sometimes, there is a misconception that evergreen plants have to be conifers, but there is a large selection of evergreen trees and shrubs to choose from. When selecting your plants you will need to consider the following:-

  • What interesting features are you looking for? For example, foliage colour, berries or flowers.

  • If you live near the sea, you will need to consider plants that can cope with the salt conditions. Quercus ilex, Griselinia littoralis and Tamarisk make good choices here.

  • How much space do you have? You will need to consider whether the plant you choose will have enough space for its eventual height and spread.

  • Ground conditions and whether your garden faces north, south, east or west. To get an idea of what grows well in your area, it is a good idea to look around your local area to see what grows well.

  • If you are planting an evergreen for screenage, consider whether you would like a bush, (to mask a fence for example) or a standard tree. A standard tree will block out above a fence line and you can still plant smaller shrubs underneath.

  • Bear in mind that not all evergreens can cope with hard pruning. Some can lose their beauty afterwards.

Here at Arundel Arboretum, our knowledgeable staff are always available to advise you on the right purchase. We have a large range of plants to choose from. Here is a selection for you to consider:-

Quercus ilex (Holm Oak or Evergreen Oak)

Quercus ilex is an evergreen tree. It has small leathery green dark green leaves, with a white\cream underside, and black finely cracked bark. Yellow catkins appear in spring. Quercus ilex can be planted in full sun or partial shade, in a sheltered or exposed position. It prefers a moist, well-drained soil. Being an oak, this tree can grow to excessive mass. Annual trimming will keep the tree in shape and under control. If you are near the coast, this is a very good choice. The tree is able to cope with the salt conditions. It has an eventual height of 12m+ and a width of 8m+.

Photinia x fraseri ‘Red Robin’

Photinia x fraseri ‘Red Robin’ is a highly ornamental evergreen shrub with dark green leaves which are brilliant red when they are young. Photinia x fraseri ‘Red Robin’ produces small white flowers which appear in April-May, and these are sometimes followed by bright red fruit later in the summer. It is an ideal evergreen specimen shrub as is comes in many forms – bush, standard and half standard. Photinia x fraseri ‘Red Robin’ can be kept regularly trimmed which will enhance the colour and encourage dense foliage. This, therefore, makes it an ideal shrub for screenage.

Magnolia grandiflora (Bull Bay)

Magnolia grandiflora is an evergreen, which makes a magnificent tree. It is often used as a shrub. Glossy, leathery green leaves above a reddish-brown underside. It produces fragrant large creamy white globular flowers. These are highly fragrant and can be up to 25cm across. As a tree, it is ideal for screening. Magnolia grandiflora can be planted in full sun or partial shade in a sheltered position. It has an eventual height of 12m+ and a spread of 8m+.

Rhododendron ‘Cunningham’s White’

Rhododendron ‘Cunningham’s White’ is an evergreen shrub. It has dark green foliage and produces beautiful funnel-shaped white flowers. These emerge from mauve buds in late spring. Rhododendron ‘Cunningham’s White’ can be planted in full sun or partial shade, in a sheltered or exposed position. It has an eventual height of 1.5-2.5m and a spread of 2.5-4m.


We have a vast selection of rhododendrons in stock, so there is plenty to choose from!

Arundel Arboretum is a leading stockist of evergreen trees and shrubs in West Sussex and we are always available to advise you on the right purchase for your garden.

Please do come along to our nursery to see our excellent, extensive range of evergreen trees and shrubs.

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