14 Plants You Cannot Kill

Perfect Choices for Every Gardener

5/31/20233 min read

Are you tired of struggling to keep your shrubs alive? Are you looking for low-maintenance plants that can thrive even in less-than-ideal conditions? Look no further! In this blog post, we will introduce you to 14 incredibly resilient shrubs that can withstand neglect, harsh weather, and even inexperienced gardeners. These tough and tenacious plants are virtually indestructible, making them the perfect additions to any garden or landscape. So, let's dive in and discover the shrubs you simply can't kill!

  1. Boxwood (Buxus sempervirens):

    Boxwoods are renowned for their ability to withstand almost anything. These evergreen shrubs tolerate both sun and shade, and they're resistant to pests and diseases. With minimal care, regular watering, and occasional pruning, boxwoods will flourish year after year.

  2. Juniper (Juniperus spp.):

    Junipers are incredibly adaptable shrubs that thrive in various climates and soil conditions. They're highly resistant to pests, diseases, and drought. These low-maintenance evergreens add structure and texture to your landscape effortlessly.

  3. Forsythia (Forsythia spp.):

    Forsythias are known for their vibrant yellow flowers that usher in the spring season. These hardy shrubs are cold-tolerant, drought-tolerant, and adaptable to different soil types. Pruning after flowering will keep them in shape.

  4. Rose of Sharon (Hibiscus syriacus):

    Rose of Sharon shrubs display stunning, hibiscus-like flowers during the summer. They thrive in full sun, tolerate heat and drought, and are relatively disease-resistant. With occasional pruning, these shrubs will reward you with a burst of color year after year.

  5. Russian Sage (Perovskia atriplicifolia):

    Russian Sage is a drought-tolerant and deer-resistant shrub known for its aromatic silver-gray foliage and abundant lavender-blue flowers. It's a perfect choice for hot, dry climates and well-drained soil.

  6. Winterberry (Ilex verticillata):

    If you're looking for shrubs that thrive in wet conditions, Winterberry is an excellent choice. These deciduous shrubs are famous for their stunning red berries, which persist throughout the winter. They are easy to grow and maintain.

  7. Spirea (Spiraea spp.):

    Spirea shrubs are incredibly hardy and adaptable. With various cultivars available, you can find the perfect spirea for your garden. They offer beautiful clusters of flowers and come in different colors, such as white, pink, and red. Regular pruning will help maintain their shape and promote blooming.

  8. Barberry (Berberis spp.):

    Barberries are colorful, thorny shrubs that add interest and texture to any landscape. They tolerate a wide range of soil conditions, require minimal water once established, and are generally resistant to pests and diseases. Regular pruning will keep them looking tidy.

  9. Potentilla (Potentilla fruticosa):

    Potentilla is a versatile shrub that blooms profusely throughout the summer. They come in various colors, including yellow, pink, and white. These hardy shrubs are tolerant of different soil types, drought-resistant, and relatively low-maintenance.

  10. Beautyberry (Callicarpa spp.):

    Beautyberry shrubs are known for their vibrant purple berries that persist into fall. They're adaptable to different soil types, including sandy or clay soils, and can tolerate both full sun and partial shade. Regular pruning in late winter or early spring will encourage new growth and enhance the berry display.

  11. Viburnum (Viburnum spp.):

    Viburnums offer a wide range of shrubs with different characteristics, but all share excellent durability. With attractive flowers, berries, and fall foliage, these shrubs are perfect for adding interest to your landscape. They generally prefer well-drained soil and regular watering.

  12. Yucca (Yucca spp.):

    Yuccas are tough, evergreen shrubs that thrive in arid and desert-like conditions. They require minimal water, prefer full sun, and can withstand high temperatures. These unique plants offer architectural interest to your garden.

  13. Weigela (Weigela florida):

    Weigelas are reliable flowering shrubs that produce masses of colorful blooms in late spring or early summer. They're relatively low-maintenance and can tolerate a wide range of soil conditions. Pruning after flowering will help maintain their shape and encourage more blooms.

  14. Ninebark (Physocarpus spp.):

    Ninebark shrubs are native to North America and are highly adaptable to different climates and soil types. They feature attractive foliage in shades of green, purple, or bronze, and some varieties produce clusters of white or pink flowers. Regular pruning will help keep their size in check.

With these 14 resilient shrubs in your garden, you can finally say goodbye to plant-related stress and enjoy a vibrant, low-maintenance landscape. From the evergreen beauty of boxwoods to the colorful blooms of weigelas, these plants will thrive despite challenging conditions and minimal care. So, go ahead and choose the perfect shrubs for your garden, knowing that they'll stay healthy and beautiful year after year. Happy gardening!