The Best Shrubs for Urban Gardens

A successful urban garden needs structure — especially in winter. That’s where evergreens shine: they give your garden form, anchor the design, and stay dependable when everything else fades.

Here are a few of my go-to evergreen shrubs that work brilliantly in small spaces and mixed borders:

Nandina domestica (Heavenly Bamboo)

Despite the name, it’s not bamboo at all — but it offers similar upright movement and fine texture. Its red stems and coppery new growth add seasonal interest, and the airy habit makes it ideal for narrow beds or pots.

Photinia × fraseri ‘Red Robin’

Great for screening or structure, this plant earns its spot with bold red new growth and glossy foliage. It’s especially useful where you need a bit of privacy or backdrop — and tolerates a hard prune if space is tight.

Choisya ternata ‘Moonshine’

Compact and bright, ‘Moonshine’ lifts shady areas and adds contrast to darker foliage. Its citrus-scented leaves and small white flowers make it both practical and pretty. It’s a low-maintenance choice with strong year-round presence.

My Sourcing Tip:

Don’t shop by colour alone. Think in terms of shape, pace, and the role each plant plays in your space. A plant’s form and lifespan matter more than a fleeting flower.

🌱 Need help choosing plants that will last?

I offer plant sourcing and selection as part of my design process — choosing long-lasting, site-appropriate plants that complement your existing garden.