Summer Flowering Shrubs

During the lazy days of summer, there’s often nothing more you’d rather do than relax in your own backyard. Whether napping in a hammock, reading a great book under a big shade tree or gathering with a few friends for drinks, it all seems better done outside. When you include summer-blooming shrubs in your yard, you transform a hot, dry and possibly uncomfortable space into an oasis of lush beauty. The vitality and delight you get from these summer superstars can completely transform your living space.

Why We Love Summer Blooming Shrubs

Summer flowers are essential for busy butterflies, hummingbirds, bees and other pollinators. Not only are these garden friends fun to watch, but they also help to increase the productivity of your vegetable and cut flower gardens. We also love the anticipation of waiting to see plants transform into a riot of color and delicious smells. The delayed gratification makes it all the more magical! Harvesting flowers to brighten your home or give to loved ones is an unmatched experience.

Fragrant Blooming Summer Bushes

Some flowering shrubs are wonderfully fragrant. Try planting Rose Coral Knockout®, Ruby Spice Summersweet or a Miss Molly Butterfly Bush close to decks and patios, and breathe in their fabulous aromas. These varieties are also terrific to cut for vases and flower arrangements.

Summer Flower Bushes for Every Spot

There’s a summer-blooming shrub for just about any place in your yard, and most of these plants are super long-blooming, providing flowers well into autumn. Here’s some advice from experts on where to plant your summer flowering shrubs:

  • Small spaces: Spirea, abelia and dwarf weigela are perfect for filling little gaps.
  • Midsize spaces: Roses, hydrangeas and summersweets are popular midsize growers that make lovely hedges.
  • Back of the yard: Rose of Sharon and viburnums are terrific choices for the back of the yard, as their vibrant flowers are bright from any distance.

Mix and Match Your Flowering Favorites

Plant shrubs on your lawn like you’re creating a colorful painting. Some examples of our favorite colorful blooming summer bushes include:

  • Abelias: If you love attracting pollinators, fragrant and nectar-rich abelia plants will make your outdoor space a hub for birds, bees and butterflies. Most varieties are semi-green to evergreen, so you can enjoy their colorful foliage for most of the year.
  • Butterfly Bushes: These sweetly fragrant flowers are butterfly magnets, and the various shades of purple, pink and white add an enchanting touch to flower beds. Plant near your windows or outdoor seating areas to watch the dancing butterflies enjoy your yard.
  • Crape Myrtles: These shrubs perfectly suit containers or small spaces. The bright pink flowers bloom all summer and are a beautiful addition to pots on patios or at borders.
  • Hydrangeas: From electric blue to delicate pink to pale green, hydrangeas offer unique shades and abundant blooms to elevate flower gardens. They’re easy to grow and make beautiful hedges or borders. Plus, here’s a secret — hydrangea flowers can change color in alkaline soil! Who says nature isn’t magic?
  • Roses: Growing roses can lift your mood and be a gift for your loved ones. Despite what you might think, roses are relatively low maintenance and bloom for months, bursting with fragrance and color.

Shop Summer Flowering Shrubs Today

Don’t hesitate — plant now to enjoy blooming bushes all summer and delight in their full glory. If you’d like expert advice in making your yard more colorful and sweet-smelling than ever before, visit one of our locations so our qualified horticulturists can help. Shop online if you’re ready to get your hands in the soil as soon as possible!