Zone 9 Evergreen Shrubs
Emerald green arborvitae (Thuja accidentalis) – This evergreen grows 12 to 14 feet (3.5 to 4 m.) and prefers areas having full sun with well-drained soil. Note: Dwarf varieties of arborvitae are available. Bamboo palm (Chamaedorea) – This plant reaches heights varying from 1 to 20 feet (30.5 cm. to 6 m.). Plant in full sun or partial shade in areas having moist, rich, well-drained soil. Note: Bamboo palm is often grown indoors. Pineapple guava (Acca sellowiana) – Looking for a drought-tolerant evergreen specimen? Then the pineapple guava plant is for you. Reaching up to 20 feet (to 6 m.) in height, it’s not too picky about location, full sun to partial shade, and tolerates most soil types. Oleander (Nerium oleander) – Not a plant for those with young children or pets due to its toxicity, but a beautiful plant nonetheless. Oleander grows 8 to 12 feet (2.5 to 4 m.) and can be planted in sun to partial shade. Most well-drained soils, including poor soil, will do for this one. Japanese Barberry (Berberis thunbergii) – The shrub form reaches 3 to 6 feet (1 to 2 m.) and performs well in full sun to partial shade. As long as the soil is well-draining, this barberry is relatively carefree. Compact Inkberry Holly (Ilex glabra ‘Compacta’) – This holly variety enjoys sun to partial shade areas with moist, acidic soil. This smaller inkberry reaches a mature height of around 4 to 6 feet (1.5 to 2 m.). Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) – This popular evergreen herb is actually a shrub that can reach heights of 2 to 6 feet (0.5 to 2 m.). Give rosemary a sunny position in the garden with light, well-draining soil.
Growing Evergreen Shrubs in Zone 9
Although shrubs can be planted in early spring, autumn is the ideal time to plant evergreen shrubs for zone 9. A layer of mulch will keep the soil cool and moist. Water well once or twice every week until the new shrubs are established – about six weeks, or when you notice healthy, new growth.
