Shrubs

Shrubs, often called bushes, are small to medium-sized plants that usually have woody stems above the ground. Smaller shrubs (under six and a half feet) are referred to as subshrubs. Shrubs are distinguished from trees because they have multiple stems and a shorter height. Shrubs can have showy flowers, be prized for their beautiful foliage, and even be groundcover varieties that will create green carpeted areas across the landscape. When designing your garden, consider adding shrubs along fences, using them to layer landscapes and create depth and height, having them serve as screens for exposed windows or eyesores like air conditioners or other equipment, or as specimen plants on patios and along walkways.
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​Quick Question: What is a 'Shrubland'?
A shrubland is an area of land dominated by shrubs. There are many types of shrublands that occur naturally worldwide, including Fynbos, Maquis, Shrub-Steppe, Shrub Swamp and Moorland. If there is an area within a landscaped park that is dedicated to shrubs, it is referred to as a 'Shrubbery'.
Shrubs can be great additions to any area of the garden, and have the added benefit of contributing to biodiversity through their sometimes colorful flowers and fruits. They also serve as important wildlife supports, providing cover, food and habitat for rodents, insects, and birds. The list of shrubs below was cultivated from a master list of shrubs, whittled down to include those that will do well in many Western climates. The list below includes both natives as well as shrubs that originate in other areas around the world.

resources & References

California Native Shrubs
Wikipedia: Shrub
​The New Sunset Western Garden Book: The Ultimate Gardening Guide (2012)