Downsized Shrubs

Freshen up your front yard with these short, stylish bushes

- LUKE MILLER

1 Raspberry Sundae deutzia

DEUTZIA HYBRID, ZONES 5 TO 9

Unlike other deutzia varieties that grow 6 feet or taller, this compact, rounded cultivar grows 3 to 4 feet tall and wide. It features arching stems and large panicles of purple-pink flowers that attract bees and butterflies from midspring to midsummer.

Why we love it: The slightly fragrant flowers are white with pink edges, while the golden yellow foliage is a delightful treat in fall.

2 Midnight Wine Shine weigela

WEIGELA FLORIDA 'SMNWFMS', ZONES 4 TO 8

The beloved Midnight Wine shrub gets an update with this pick. Enjoy its dark, glossy leaves, and look for hummingbirds at the tube-shaped pink blooms that arrive in spring and last into early summer. Grow in a spot with full sun and watch it reach 1 to 11/2 feet high and 2 or more feet wide.

Why we love it: Deer are usually not a problem for this plant.

3 Little Quick Fire panicle hydrangea

HYDRANGEA PANICULATA, ZONES 3 TO 8

An award-winning dwarf version of the popular Quick Fire panicle hydrangea, this features creamy white flowers that age to attractive hues of deep pink. It matures at just 3 to 5 feet tall and wide, and can even be grown in a container.

Why we love it: As the name suggests, it fires up flowers quickly, blooming a month before most panicle hydrangeas, and it extends the hydrangea season.

TIGHT-SPACE STARS Some hydrangeas are especially suited for smaller spots in a landscape. Try Tiny Tuff Stuff mountain hydrangea, Invincibelle Wee White smooth hydrangea or Little Quick Fire panicle hydrangea, depending on your region.

4 Bollywood azalea

RHODODENDRON 'FARROW', ZONES 6 TO 9