Colorado’s diverse climate and rugged landscapes offer a unique challenge for gardeners, but also a wealth of native plant species that are well-adapted to the region’s varying conditions. Incorporating native bushes into your garden not only enhances its aesthetic appeal but also supports local ecosystems by providing habitat and food for wildlife. Here, we explore ten native Colorado bushes that can thrive in your garden, each bringing its own unique characteristics and benefits.
1. Serviceberry (Amelanchier alnifolia)
Serviceberry is a versatile shrub that offers year-round interest. In spring, it bursts into bloom with delicate white flowers, followed by edible berries in summer that attract birds. Its fall foliage turns a stunning mix of orange, red, and purple. This bush is drought-tolerant and thrives in full sun to partial shade, making it an excellent choice for Colorado’s varied climates.
2. Chokecherry (Prunus virginiana)
Chokecherry is a hardy shrub known for its fragrant white flowers in spring and dark purple berries in late summer. While the berries are bitter when raw, they can be used to make jams and jellies. This bush is a favorite among birds and provides excellent wildlife value. It prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade and is adaptable to different soil types.
3. Mountain Mahogany (Cercocarpus montanus)
Pros: Mountain Mahogany is extremely drought-resistant and thrives in rocky, well-drained soils. Its feathery foliage and striking bark make it a visually appealing addition to any garden. It also provides erosion control on slopes.
Cons: Slow-growing and may take several years to establish. Requires full sun and does not tolerate wet conditions.
4. Rabbitbrush (Ericameria nauseosa)
Rabbitbrush is a resilient shrub that blooms with bright yellow flowers in late summer and fall, providing a splash of color when many other plants are fading. It is highly drought-tolerant and thrives in poor, dry soils. This bush is an excellent choice for xeriscape gardens and supports pollinators like bees and butterflies.
5. Colorado Blue Spruce (Picea pungens)
While primarily known as a tree, young Colorado Blue Spruce bushes can be a striking addition to larger gardens. Their iconic blue-green needles and pyramidal shape add structure and color year-round. They prefer full sun and well-drained soil, and once established, they are highly drought-tolerant.
6. Red-osier Dogwood (Cornus sericea)
Red-osier Dogwood is prized for its vibrant red stems in winter, which provide visual interest when other plants are dormant. In spring, it produces clusters of white flowers, followed by white berries that attract birds. This bush thrives in moist soils and partial shade, making it ideal for riparian areas or shaded gardens.
7. Apache Plume (Fallugia paradoxa)
Pros: Apache Plume is a low-maintenance shrub with delicate pink flowers and feathery seed heads that persist through winter. It is highly drought-tolerant and thrives in full sun and poor soils. Its unique appearance adds texture and interest to any garden.
Cons: Can be slow to establish and may spread aggressively in ideal conditions.
8. Littleleaf Mockorange (Philadelphus microphyllus)
Littleleaf Mockorange is a fragrant shrub that blooms with white flowers in late spring to early summer. Its compact size makes it suitable for smaller gardens. It prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. This bush is drought-tolerant once established and attracts pollinators with its sweet scent.
9. Woody Rosemary (Ceratiola ericoides)
While not exclusive to Colorado, Woody Rosemary is a unique evergreen shrub that thrives in the state's arid regions. Its needle-like foliage resembles rosemary and provides year-round greenery. It prefers full sun and sandy, well-drained soils. This bush is highly drought-tolerant and adds a Mediterranean flair to gardens.
10. Curly-leaf Mountain Mahogany (Cercocarpus ledifolius)
Curly-leaf Mountain Mahogany is another hardy shrub that thrives in Colorado’s high elevations. Its curled leaves and gray-green foliage provide unique texture, while its deep roots make it excellent for erosion control. This bush prefers full sun and rocky, dry soils. It is slow-growing but highly resilient once established.
What are the best native bushes for a Colorado xeriscape garden?
+For a xeriscape garden, consider Rabbitbrush, Apache Plume, and Mountain Mahogany. These bushes are highly drought-tolerant and thrive in Colorado’s arid conditions.
Which native bushes attract wildlife in Colorado?
+Serviceberry, Chokecherry, and Red-osier Dogwood are excellent choices for attracting birds and other wildlife. They provide food and habitat, supporting local ecosystems.
Can native Colorado bushes grow in shady areas?
+Yes, Red-osier Dogwood and Littleleaf Mockorange can tolerate partial shade, making them suitable for shaded areas in your garden.
How do I care for native bushes in Colorado’s dry climate?
+Most native bushes are drought-tolerant once established. Water deeply but infrequently, mulch around the base to retain moisture, and avoid over-fertilizing, as they are adapted to nutrient-poor soils.
Are native Colorado bushes deer-resistant?
+While no plant is entirely deer-proof, Mountain Mahogany, Rabbitbrush, and Apache Plume are less likely to be browsed by deer due to their texture and taste.
Incorporating these native Colorado bushes into your garden not only enhances its beauty but also contributes to the health of local ecosystems. Each bush offers unique benefits, from drought tolerance to wildlife support, ensuring your garden thrives in Colorado’s challenging climate. By choosing native plants, you’re creating a sustainable and resilient landscape that reflects the natural beauty of the region.
