| I live in zone 5. I'd like to put in some flowering shrubs on the shady north side of my house. Can you recommend some? Is daphne a shade tolerate shrub? |
| Daphne prefers dappled shade rather than deep shade, and need protection from winter winds. Some daphne species are hardy to Zone 5 (D. burkwoodii). Others to consider for part shade are Buddleia davidii and bush honeysuckle (Lonicera fragrantissima). Your best bet may be Clethra alnifolia (Sweet Pepperbush), because it blossoms for 4-6 weeks in shade, and the seed pods hang on throughout the winter for off-season interest. It's tolerant of winter winds, and spreads slowly through underground stems. Clethra requires acidic soil, so mix in plenty of sphagnum peat moss at planting. Carroll Gardens has all the plants mentioned - give them a call at 800/638-6334 or write 444 East Main St., Westminster MD 21157. Hope this helps! |
