Shrubs with colourful foliage
Many shrubs are best suited to growing as colourful foliage plants, either as a focal point in themselves or as a foil for showy annual or perennial flowers. When combining shrubs in the garden, consider not only foliage colour but also leaf shape, texture, variegation patterns and whether the growth habit is dense or open. Aim to combine a mix of evergreen and deciduous varieties. Evergreens will provide permanency and structure, holding their leaves all year round, while deciduous shrubs deliver a fabulous autumnal spectacle in shades or reds, yellows, oranges and burgundy each year. Our top tip is to think about how different plants will look together and how their foliage compliments other features such as flowers, fruit, berries and bark.