Ready to ditch those boring foundation shrubs from the big box store? I’ve spent years experimenting with different foundation plants, and these 6 varieties have proven themselves to be absolute winners for both looks and easy care.
My Top 6 Foundation Plants
1. Arborvitae
I absolutely love how these evergreens maintain their gorgeous color year-round.
They’re my go-to choice for areas with low windows, especially the dwarf varieties that stay between 1-3 feet tall.
The round forms create such a polished look against the house foundation – they’re like nature’s perfectly sculpted sentinels.
2. Spirea
The newer reblooming types have been a game-changer in my garden beds.
I’m particularly fond of how the foliage starts with stunning orange or pink hues before maturing to green, giving my foundation planting amazing seasonal interest.
Unlike the older varieties that used to drive me crazy with their unruly growth, these modern varieties stay neat and compact while providing beautiful white or pink blooms all summer long.
3. Abelia
This shrub has become my secret weapon for those tricky shaded areas near the house.
The glossy leaves catch light beautifully, and the fragrant flowers are an absolute delight in late summer when most other plants are starting to fade.
I’ve found that different varieties offer flexible height options – some stay petite at 2-3 feet while others can reach 4-6 feet tall.
4. Boxwood
Every time I look at my boxwoods, I’m reminded why they’re considered a classic choice.
They’re incredibly versatile – you can either keep them precisely trimmed for a formal look or let them grow naturally for a more relaxed feel.
I’ve switched to newer varieties that offer better disease resistance, and the dwarf types are perfect for maintaining scale with your home.
5. Inkberry Holly
As a busy mom, I appreciate how this native holly maintains its adorable round shape without constant trimming.
Its glossy oval leaves provide year-round interest, and at 2-3 feet tall, it’s perfect for creating low hedges.
I’ve found it to be an excellent low-maintenance alternative to boxwood, especially in areas where I want a more natural look.
6. Pieris
When winter seems endless, my Pieris brings the first signs of spring with its charming bell-shaped flower clusters.
This evergreen has been a lifesaver in the shadier parts of my foundation plantings where other shrubs struggle.
The dwarf varieties have worked wonderfully in smaller spaces, and their winter interest makes them truly valuable throughout the year.