Group 1:  Ninebark- 1 shrub, and American beautyberry – 2 shrubs

Physocarpus opulifolius ninebark and Callicarpa americana American beautyberry complement each other. The ninebark’s attractive foliage, unique, peeling bark and colorful leaves against the striking clusters of purple berries of the American beautyberry create a vibrant visual contrast that will be a showstopper in your yard. Both of these beautiful native shrubs will contribute to wildlife habitat by attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies, and the beautyberry will provide food for birds and other wildlife. The ninebark is a great backdrop as a mid-height shrub, and the beautyberry will fill in the lower areas creating a natural layered effect, adding depth to any garden design.  Both shrubs are easy to care for and require minimal pruning. They are resistant to pets and disease making them a suitable choice for gardeners of all levels of experience. Plant them in full sun to light shade conditions.

Group 2:  Itea virginica sweetspire “Merlot” -2 shrubs, and Aronia black chokeberry – 1 shrub

Itea virginica sweetspire “Merlot” and Aronia melanocarpa black chokeberry are a beautiful pairing. The burgundy leaves of the Itea cultivar “Merlot” paired with the dark green leaves of the black chokeberry offer a beautiful contrast enhancing the aesthetic of your garden.  Both offer a fragrant white flower blooming in the spring that will add a delightful scent and attract pollinators.  The flowers are an important source of pollen for bees and butterflies. The berries of the chokeberry are an excellent food source for birds and other wildlife, and the taller height offers cover and nesting opportunities. The mid-height rounded form of sweetspire with the upright structure of Chokeberry will create a layering effect, creating depth and interest in your garden. Both species are adaptable to a large range of soil types, including wet or poorly drained soils, making them a versatile option. They are low maintenance and hardy shrubs that are resistant to pets and disease. Full sun to part shade conditions are the best for both shrubs. They have year-round appeal with the beautiful spring flowers, summer foliage and striking fall color, along with winter structure.  By using these two shrubs together, you can create a beautiful and functional, wildlife friendly, biodiverse environment.

Group 3:  Ilex verticallata winterberry; Female, Maryland Beauty – 2 shrubs, and Male, Jim Dandy – 1 shrub

Our final choice for your native replacement shrub is Ilex verticillata winterberry. Winterberry requires both male and female plants in this selection. You will receive two females and a male. A female produces berries, but needs a nearby male to help set the fruit. The female specimen is Maryland Beauty, and Jim Dandy is the male specimen. The contrast of a male and female enhances the visual interest of your landscape, especially when the female is covered in bright, red berries contrasting against the green foliage of a male. The berries are an important food source for birds and other wildlife during the winter months. Although the male does not produce berries, it is important for bees and other pollinators contributing to overall garden biodiversity. Both plants thrive in moist, acidic soils. They are an ideal rain garden choice.  Maintenance is at a minimum. These plants will grow between 6 to 10 feet tall and spread 5 to 8 feet in width making it a great choice for borders or hedges. Winterberry prefers full sun to part shade growing conditions.

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