Daphne x transatlantica ‘Jim’s Pride’

2003

Named for Jim Cross of Environmental's Nursery, Long Island, ‘Jim’s Pride’ is a wonderful small shrub, growing to about 4 feet tall by 4 feet wide. Beginning in May, fragrant white flowers cover the attractive grey-green leaves, which remain throughout the year. Flowers will continue until frost and may sporadically appear during warm days of winter. An ideal plant for small gardens and edging, plant in partial shade and moist, well-drained soil. If you wish to plant in an area with heavy clay, raise your plantings for optimal results. Hardy in zones 5-9.

Fothergilla gardenii

(Dwarf Fothergilla)

2000

Native to the southeastern United States, this shrub grows in sun to partial shade and prefers moist, well-drained organic soils. Though slow growing, this plant reaches a height of 2 to 3 feet and develops a rounded shape, which can be impressive in small gardens. During late April to early May, it produces striking white, fragrant, bottlebrush-shaped inflorescences. Its outstanding fall foliage ranges from brilliant yellow to orange and scarlet. Relatively pest and disease-free, this versatile plant can be utilized in a woodland situation, mixed border, mass planting, or as a part of a foundation planting. Hardy in zones 5-8.

Corylopsis pauciflora

(Buttercup Winterhazel)

2000

Native to Japan and Taiwan, Buttercup winterhazel is a deciduous shrub that flowers yellow, bell-shaped blossoms in April just before the leaves unfold. Rich, dark green leaves turn yellow in October. This plant thrives when planted in part shade in moist, acidic soil, away from high winds. Plants spread slowly by easily controlled suckers to 8 feet wide and 6 feet in height. It is wonderful for use in woodland situations and mixed with other ericaceous plants. Little maintenance is needed for this pest-free and attractive shrub. Hardy in zones 6-8.

Cephalotaxus harringtonia ‘Duke Gardens’

(Plum Yew)

2001

Native to Japan and parts of China, Duke Gardens is a small yet gracefully spreading conifer. Its desirable, almost black-green needles and mounded shape make it usable as a 2 to 3 feet. high, 3 to 4 feet. wide accent plant, or in a regal, mass planting. This conifer performs best placed in a wind protected, light shade area in well-drained soil. Duke Gardens is drought tolerant once established and can also withstand heavy shade. This slow-growing refined and deer-resistant conifer will be a welcome and elegant replacement for the common yew (Taxus baccata), which is under attack by deer. Hardy in zones 6-9.

Viburnum dilatatum ‘Erie’

(Linden Viburnum)

2002

Native to East Asia, ‘Erie’ is an adaptable shrub with a broad, rounded growth habit. Medium-sized at maturity, this plant grows up to 10 feet tall and 6 feet wide. In late May to early June, it bears flat cymes of creamy-white flowers, followed by red fruit that turns coral after frost. Glossy green foliage transitions from yellow orange to rust in fall. The fruit attracts birds. This plant needs a buddy! Plant two or more linden viburnum together, as single plants don’t fruit well. Use as a specimen, in shrub borders and mass plantings, or even as a hedge. Grow it in full sun and in moist soils. Hardy in zones 5-7.

Clethra alnifolia ‘Compacta’

(Summersweet)

2003

Native to the wetlands of eastern North America, including Long Island, ‘Compacta’ is a dense, multi-stemmed shrub reaching 4–5 feet tall and about 6 feet wide. In July, a profusion of fragrant white flowers appears. In fall, its rich, dark green foliage turns an attractive yellow. While tolerant of a wide range of conditions, this plant does best in partial shade in moist soils. It’s useful in shaded gardens, seashore plantings, foundation plantings, and can be massed or used as a complement to perennials in a mixed border. Hardy in zones 3-9.

Hydrangea quercifolia

(Oakleaf Hydrangea)

2005

Oakleaf hydrangea is a dramatic, summer-flowering shrub with creamy, white, cone-shaped flowers up to 1 inch long that age to purplish pink. Deep green, oak-leaf shaped leaves turn shades of red, orange and purple in fall. Use as a specimen, in the shrub or mixed border, or on a woodland edge. Its mature size is about 8 feet tall and 10 feet wide, though it could be kept smaller by pruning. It will grow in partial shade, but full sun produces the most flowers and the best fall color. On older plants, peeling crimson bark adds winter interest. It does well in moist, well-drained, fertile soil. Mulch around it to keep the root zone cool. Its loose growing habit is well suited to naturalist gardens. Hardy in zones 4-8.

Rosa ‘Radyod’

(The Blushing Knock Out® Rose)

2006

‘Radyod’ is a pale-pink shrub addition to the tough and durable Knock Out® rose group. It has been bred to resist blackspot, mildew, and Japanese beetles, and to produce profuse light pink flowers which change into shell pink, 3 to 3 ½ inch blooms as they age. Plant container grown specimens into rich, well-drained soil in spring where they will receive 5 or more hours of sun and mulch with 2 inches of organic mulch. To improve flowering and performance, use slow-release fertilizers in a constant feed program and liquid fertilizer in spring when growth resumes. Use it as a specimen, foundation planting, mixed border, or as a colorful hedge. Hardy in zones 4-9.

Hibiscus syriacus ‘Diana’

(Rose-of-Sharon)

2006

‘Diana’, a deciduous shrub, is vastly superior to the old-fashioned Rose-of-Sharon. Its 6 to 7 foot height and slightly less wide habit is more refined, has better glossy, dark green foliage, a profusion of terrific waxy, ruffled, pure white 4 inch flowers from July to October, and most of all, does not produce masses of pesky seed and seedlings. Plant it in spring or fall in decent, well-drained soil in part to full sun locations. It is highly adaptable to a wide range of less-than-ideal locations, is pollution-resistant, and requires little maintenance beyond selective pruning for shape. Use it as a specimen, hedge, or mass planting, in a moon garden, or in industrial and mall sites. It can also be trained as an elegant tree form. Hardy in zones 5-8.

Ilex pedunculosa

(Longstalk Holly)

2006

Longstalk holly is one of the most attractive hollies with thornless, shiny, 1 to 3 inch long, dark green leaves and interesting red, ¼ inch fruit that hangs on 1 ½ inch stems, which generally persist from October into November when birds do not get them. It has a graceful balance of dense foliage with an open structure over its height which can reach 30 feet with a spread of 15 feet but generally is closer to 15 feet tall in cultivation. Plant it in spring in decent, fertile, moist soils. It is tolerant of less-than-ideal conditions but grows best in partial shade to partial sun locations. Keep in mind that a male plant is needed to pollinate a female one for fruit production. Hardy in zones 5-7.

Skimmia japonica

(Japanese Skimmia)

2007

Japanese skimmia is a rounded and dense evergreen shrub of about 3 feet by 4 feet for foundation and mixed plantings and is nicely sized for small gardens. Plant it in moist, organic, acidic soils in shade and part shade areas and protect it from winter sun and wind. A male must be planted near up to 6 female plants to produce the persistent bright red fruit in November, which lasts until spring. Crushed leaves are fragrant. No major pest or disease issues pose a threat. Hardy in zones 6-8.

Abelia grandiflora ‘Rose Creek’

(Glossy Abelia)

2007

A slow-growing, dense cultivar, ‘Rose Creek’ is a deciduous shrub with attractive, rosy foliage. It has light pink to white flowers starting in July and terrific foliage color from September; both lasting until a hard frost. It generally grows to 3 feet tall and should be cut to the ground in late winter every 3-5 years. Use it in a mixed border, a hedge, or even an interesting groundcover. Plant it in sun to part shade in well-drained organic soils with good moisture during growth. Plants are evergreen where protected. Hardy in zones 6-9.

Viburnum x burkwoodii ‘Conoy’

(Burkwood Viburnum)

2008

A terrific, pest-resistant, dwarf, evergreen shrub, ‘Conoy’ has flat, creamy white fragrant May. It is dense and rounded, growing to 4 feet tall and 7 feet wide. Grow it in sun to part shade locations in well-drained, alkaline soil. Mature plants are well able to withstand drought. The best fruiting, which is reddish-purple in color, for birds occurs if it is planted in groups or as a hedge, but it is also a good specimen or foundation planting. Keep in mind that pruning spent flowers will prevent summer fruit displays. No major insect or disease problems pose a threat. Hardy in zones 5-8.

Aesculus parviflora

(Bottlebrush Buckeye)

2009

Bottlebrush buckeye is a native, deer-resistant shrub that tolerates shade and deep shade. If sited in full sun, ensure good moisture. It is intolerant of dry soils, particularly in the earliest stages of its growth and earlyleaf drop may occur in extreme heat. It flowers well in both sun and shade and the flowers, which attract ruby-throated hummingbirds, are very fragrant. Foliage turns to yellow in the fall. Most of the time, pruning is not needed. At a mature height and width of approximately 8 feet by 8 feet, give this plant room to grow. Bottlebrush buckeye makes a divine lawn specimen or an impressive border when planted enmasse. It faces no major pest or disease issues. Hardy in zones 4-8.

Lonicera nitida ‘Lemon Beauty’ and 'Baggesen’s Gold’

(Boxleaf Honeysuckle)

2013

Boxleaf honeysuckle is a low-growing evergreen shrub with small, glossy leaves and a spreading habit to 4 to 5 feet tall and 4 to 6 feet wide. Plants can be pruned to form a dense hedge or low screen. Boxleaf honeysuckle prefers well-drained, acidic soil and full sun or partial shade. It is heat and drought-tolerant. It is also a good alternative to boxwood. Plants may become semi-evergreen in harsh winters. ‘Baggesen’s Gold’ is an upright variety with bright, golden-yellow foliage and ‘Lemon Beauty’ offers fine, yellow, variegated foliage and a graceful growth habit. Hardy in zones 7-9.

Camellia japonica April Series, C. x Winter Series

(Camellia)

2014

These durable, colorful evergreens offer exquisite, glossy, dark green leaves year round and colorful flowers ranging from pure white to deep pink and red at select times of the year. The April Series offers flowers in April and May while the Winter Series blooms from late October until the onset of cold weather in December. Camellias are best planted in spring and prefer rich, acidic, well-drained soil and partial shade. When siting, avoid planting on a southern exposure. Camellias are heat, drought and pest-resistant and offer great texture and color throughout the year. ‘Winter’s Star’, ‘Winter’s Joy’, ‘Winter’s Darling’, ‘April Kiss’, ‘April Rose’ and ‘April Tryst’ are among some of the best new cultivars available. Hardy in zones 6-9.

Ilex crenata ‘Soft Touch’

(Japanese Holly)

2014

This semi-dwarf, Japanese holly has fine, glossy, evergreen foliage that is softer to the touch than most other cultivars. The dense habit to 2 to 3 feet tall and wide and dark foliage make it a suitable replacement to boxwood as hedges, foundation plantings and low screens. Well-drained soil is preferred and full sun or partial shade is best for growing dense plants. Soft touch holly is drought, heat and pest-resistant, making it a low-maintenance and durable alternative to boxwood, wintercreeper (Euonymus fortunei) and other garden favorites. Hardy in zones 5-8.

Hydrangea paniculata ‘Limelight'

(Panicle Hydrangea)

2015

Limelight hydrangea is a deciduous shrub much-loved for its strong upright form, winter hardiness and profuse display of flowers throughout the season. The large, panicle flowers are borne on new growth and change from hues of lime green to white and mature to a soft pink. Planted as a hedge or singular planting in a mixed border, the effect in bloom is dramatic. A shrub grows 6 to 10 inches tall and about 5 inches wide in full or part sun with well-drained soil preferred. In spring, prune back to strong lateral buds to maintain growth and vigor. Hardy in zones 3-8.

Aucuba japonica ‘Serratifolia'

(Serrated Japanese Aucuba)

2015

Serrated Japanese aucuba fills a niche as one of the premier broadleaf evergreen shrubs for light to deep shade. Foliage remains pristine through most of Long Island winters especially when the plants are sited out of winter sun and wind. The shrub will grow 6 to 8 feet tall and functions well as a hedge, or as a component of the woodland shrub border. Pruning is handled well and the species is moderately tolerant of salt spray and poor soil as long as drainage is good. It is a suitable alternative to Prunus laurocerasus ‘Schipkaensis’ without the foliage problems. Hardy in zones 7-9.

Osmanthus heterophyllus ‘Goshiki'

(False Holly)

2017

Holly olive is a broadleaf evergreen shrub native to Japan and Taiwan and is sometimes mistaken for holly because of its similar leaf shape. Its compact form makes it a great border plant, and come fall, small yet fragrant flowers bloom on female plants. ‘Goshiki’ is an outstanding cultivar growing to 5 feet high and 4 feet wide at maturity. It has striking, soft swirls of rose, cream, white and other colors against the light green leaf, especially vivid on new growth. It tolerates drought and clay soils. Plant it in full sun to part shade. Hardy in zones 3-9.

Viburnum nudum ‘Winterthur’ and 'Brandywine’

(Smooth Witherod)

2018

This is a shrub with aromatic white flowers that appear in May to June, followed by clusters of berries that change color from pink to black. Its glossy, dark green leaves are stunning. It’s suitable for average, medium to wet, well-drained soil in full sun to part shade and grows from 5 to 12 feet tall. The ‘Brandywine’ cultivar is more compact at 5 to 6 feet tall, and stands out due to the intense colors of its berries. ‘Winterthur’ is also a compact cultivar, but with glossier leaves. In fall, these gorgeously colored shrubs change color from maroon or orange to reddish-purple. Perfect for shrub borders, foundations, roadside plantings, or low spots near ponds or streams. Less susceptible to viburnum leaf beetle than other viburnum species. Hardy in zones 5-9.

Deutzia gracilis

(Slender Deutzia)

2019

This deciduous plant adds elegance and variety to the landscape with its mounded form and arching branches. Native to Japan but well-suited for Long Island, slender deutzia thrives in full sun or part shade in well-drained soil, and reaches a mature height of 2 to 4 feet. In mid to late May, the shrub is covered in white bell-shaped flowers that bloom from last year’s growth. Come fall, the slender ovate leaves change to yellows and reds, with cultivar ‘Nikko’ turning a beautiful burgundy. Cultivar ‘Chardonnay Pearl’ offers bright lime green leaves in spring and summer with red fall color. Perfect for the compact garden or mass planting, there are several other cultivars suitable for Long Island as well. Hardy in zones 5-8.

Ilex x ‘Rutzan’ Red Beauty

(Red Beauty® Holly)

2020

Red Beauty® holly is a hybrid holly shrub introduced by Rutgers’ plant breeding program. It has fine, dark green foliage, and produces berries abundantly year in and year out. ‘Red Beauty’ forms a conical shape, maturing to around 10 feet tall with a 5 to 6 foot spread, which lends itself well for use in Long Island landscapes where other upright broadleaf hollies grow too large. ‘Red Beauty’ will perform best in full sun, but will tolerate partial shade, and as with most hollies prefers a slightly acidic, moist, well-drained soil. It should also be noted that this plant has few pest problems, and seems to be deer-resistant. Lastly, to ensure good fruit set a male companion plant should be planted nearby; Ilex ‘Blue Prince’ and Ilex ‘Blue Stallion’ are compatible. Hardy in zones 6-8.

Itea virginica

(Virginia Sweetspire)

2020

Native to southern parts of the U.S. Virginia, sweetspire is a deciduous, flowering shrub that is appealing both for its ornamental and habitat value. From late spring to early summer, sweetly fragrant white flowers soil but stem tips and are highly attractive to pollinators. For dramatic ornamental effect and to best provide cover for wildlife, plant this mounding shrub in groups and give it room to grow, as it spreads. In fall, its glossy green leaves turn shades of orange red to burgundy. Several cultivars are available ranging in mature size from 6 by 6 feet for ‘Henry’s Garnet’ to the more compact forms of ‘Scarlet Beauty’ and ‘Little Henry’, which grow about 3 feet in height and 4 feet wide. The species can grow as tall as 8 feet under ideal site conditions. This shrub is practically trouble-free and is adaptable to full sun or shade, but grows best in acidic, moist soils high in organic matter. Deer tend not to browse it. Hardy in zones 5-9.

Enkianthus campanulatus

(Redvein Enkianthus)

2021

Native to Japan, this slow-growing, deciduous shrub is a bright and colorful choice for your garden. Redvein enkianthus blooms profusely beginning in May with bell-shaped flowers first emerging cream and pink and maturing to a more prominent and vibrant rose color by July. Come fall, the shrub is ablaze in orange and red leaves. Redvein enkianthus has an upright, elegant form that rarely needs pruning, and reaches a mature height of 8 feet by 6 feet. Best sited in a location with morning sun and afternoon shade in acidic soil. Deer seldom browse Redvein enkianthus, but they might taste the spring shoots. Scout for spider mites during hot summers. Hardy in zones 4 through 7.

Rosa carolina, R. palustris, & R. virginiana

(Eastern Pasture Rose, Swamp Rose, & Virginia Rose)

2021

These three shrub roses have the distinction of being native to Long Island. All have 5-petaled, pink flowers with very showy, yellow stamens that start to bloom in late spring and after pollination develop ornamental, red hips that shine come fall. Differences in hip size and shape are the easiest way to distinguish between species that otherwise appear very similar in size and form. Pasture rose forms a low mound, whereas the swamp and Virginia rose have more of an upright habit. All form colonies and will spread widely. Adaptable to various conditions including salt spray. Site in full sun for best flower production. A great choice for attracting pollinators and supporting wildlife. Hardy to zones 4 through 9.

Indigofera ambylantha

(Indigofera, Indigo)

2022

Indigofera amblyantha is a finely textured, deciduous, spreading shrub native to central to south central China. This vigorous grower will typically grow to 4 feet tall and at least as wide. Its best attributes are its masses of attractive pale lilac to pink, pea-shaped flowers in narrow vertical racemes (2-5 inches long) and soft, ferny foliage. Flowers will start in May and continue through September and October if the weather is mild. This tough plant will tolerate various types of soils and light but its best in well-drained, moist soil and full sun or partial shade. It is drought-tolerant once established and will attract many pollinators to the garden. Ideal in a mass planting and an excellent companion plant in an herbaceous border. Hardy from zones 6 to 8.

Ilex verticillata

(Winterberry)

2023

Ilex verticillata (Winterberry Holly) is a deciduous shrub known for its striking bright red berries that persist into winter, providing visual interest and food for wildlife. It typically grows 6–10 feet tall and wide, with an upright, multi-stemmed habit. Winterberry thrives in moist, acidic soils and prefers full sun to partial shade, though berry production is best in full sun. It is adaptable to wet conditions, making it ideal for rain gardens and naturalized areas. Common cultivars include ‘Winter Red’, ‘Maryland Beauty’, and ‘Red Sprite’(Dwarf). It’s important to note that winterberry is dioecious, meaning both male and female plants are required for fruit set. A nearby male pollinator, such as Ilex verticillata ‘Jim Dandy’ (early blooming) or ‘Southern Gentleman’ (late blooming), is essential for successful berry production on female plants. One male can typically pollinate multiple females. Hardy in zones 3-9.

Vitex agnus-castus

(Chaste Tree)

2024

Native to the Mediterranean and western Asia, Chaste Tree is a deciduous shrub with aromatic grayish-green leaves and spikes of fragrant lavender-blue flowers. Grows 8 to 10 feet tall and 5 to 8 feet wide. Flowers bloom profusely from July to September and may attract butterflies. It prefers full sun and well-drained soil. Drought tolerant once established, generally pest-free. Hardy in zones 6-9.

Callicarpa americana

(American Beautyberry)

2025

Native to the southeastern United States, beautyberry is a deciduous shrub with arching branches and bright green leaves, growing to 3 to 6 feet tall and wide. From June to August, expect small lavender flowers. In fall, this plant grows striking clusters of iridescent purple berries that attract birds. Prefers full to partial sun and moist, well-drained soils. Since the shrub blooms on new wood, it is a good candidate for rejuvenation pruning and can be cut down to within 6 inches of the ground without sacrificing flower or fruit production the following season. Regular pruning will keep the shrub form more attractive. Pest-resistant. Hardy in zones 7-11.

Edgeworthia chrysantha

(Paperbush)

2027

Paperbush is a deciduous shrub with broad, green leaves that have an ornamental whitish, silvery undersurface. This specimen plant will grow to 6 feet in height and from 2 – 15 feet in width; meaning, after flowering, it may need-to-have its outer canes regularly pruned to the base in late winter to keep its width in-check. Paperbush truly shines during the dormant season when the silvery, fuzzy tight inflorescences catch the light against the smooth gray, thickened stems. The showy cream-to-yellow bloom clusters start flowering in early March and go through early spring. Flowers produce a strong and pleasant fragrance. Paperbush appreciates but does not require rich and well-drained soil to thrive and is heat- and deer-resistant. Common garden applications include use as a border plant or centerpiece. Hardy in zones 6-10.