6 superstar SHRUBS

A round-up of beautiful shrubs to make your garden shine

- TERRI DOYLE

They’re the backbone of the garden, giving structure and year-round interest. Shrubs can attract wildlife, keep out burglars or thrive in pots when your beds and borders are full. And while they may not have the razzle-dazzle of those showstopping perennials, they are great at providing a backdrop against which they can shine. We’ve picked just a few of our favourites that go the extra mile.

Best for structure

A striking, evergreen shrub with huge, glossy, deep-green leaves, Fatsia japonica wouldn’t look out of place in the Amazonian jungle. Maybe that’s why it works so well in tropical-style gardens, where those outsized leaves complement the slender uprights of bamboos and grasses. Fatsias also deal well with shade, so city gardeners can use them to brighten up a dingy corner. In autumn, unusual creamy-white, globe-shaped flowers are followed by black fruits that are loved by birds.

BEST FOR SCENT