Are you struggling to find hardy shrubs that can resist drought and require minimal upkeep in New Zealand’s unique climate? Whether you’re chasing a small shrub to line borders, or you’re after a taller screen, this article was created to help you find the perfect plant that won’t need babysitting.
These resilient plants not only withstand the challenges posed by varying weather conditions but also enhance garden aesthetics with minimal maintenance. By choosing hardy shrubs such as westringia, callistemon, nandina, viburnum, and azaleas, New Zealand gardeners can enjoy beautiful, sustainable landscapes all year round.
Westringia
Westringia, commonly known as Australian coastal rosemary, is perfect for New Zealand’s coastal areas (as well as inland gardens). This hardy shrub thrives in full sun to partial shade and is exceptionally drought-tolerant once established. Its grey-green foliage and soft, white or mauve flowers add a delicate touch to garden borders and function well as low-maintenance hedges. Westringia’s ability to withstand salt-laden winds makes it an excellent choice for coastal gardens, providing structure and beauty without demanding much care.
While most westringias are susceptible to root rot diseases when they experience wet feet, Mundi™ Westringia and Grey Box™ Westringia are able to withstand both periodic drought and flooding. Use them for depressed areas of the landscape, areas without proper drainage, and bioswales.
View westringias: https://ozbreed.co.nz//plant-ranges/shrubs-and-ground-covers/#westringia
1. Mundi™ Westringia fruticosa ‘WES05’ PVR.
Callistemon
Callistemon, or the bottlebrush plant, is celebrated for its vibrant, brush-like flower spikes, available in red, white, pink, or yellow. This shrub attracts pollinators such as native bees and birds, bringing life to any garden. Callistemon is well-suited to sunny spots and can endure dry conditions, making it a perfect candidate for water-wise gardens. There are varieties of all sizes which can be used as a screen, a low hedge, a striking specimen shrub, or even in containers for added colour on patios.
While many callistemons do struggle in wet conditions, all of the below varieties have shown remarkable resilience in periodic wet conditions with root rot diseases.
View callistemons: https://ozbreed.co.nz/plant-ranges/shrubs-and-ground-covers/#callistemon
2. Slim™ Callistemon viminalis CV01′ PVR.
Nandina
Also known as heavenly bamboo, Nandina domestica offers year-round visual interest with its bamboo-like stems and colourful foliage that transitions from green to red and orange in autumn. This hardy shrub is shade-tolerant and thrives in well-drained soil, making it versatile for various garden settings. Nandina can be used as a low hedge or a focal point in borders, with its autumn and winter berries providing additional charm.
View nandinas: https://ozbreed.co.nz/plant-ranges/shrubs-and-ground-covers/#nandina
3. Obsession™ Nandina domestica ‘SEIKA’ PVR.
Viburnum
Viburnum shrubs offer a variety of options with both deciduous and evergreen types available. Known for their fragrant flowers, vibrant autumn leaves, and colourful berries, Viburnum can enhance any garden. They prefer well-drained, fertile soil and can thrive in either sun or partial shade. Viburnum is ideal for hedging, screening, or as standalone features, ensuring year-round interest and a valuable habitat for wildlife.
View viburnums: https://ozbreed.co.nz/plant-ranges/shrubs-and-ground-covers/#viburnum
4. Dense Fence™ Viburnum odoratissimum.
Azaleas
Azaleas are renowned for their stunning floral displays, available in a wide array of colours. These evergreen shrubs thrive in acidic, well-drained soil and prefer dappled shade, making them suitable for New Zealand’s woodland gardens. Azaleas can be used to create beautiful borders or as focal points, with their lush foliage ensuring the garden remains attractive even when not in bloom.
View azaleas: https://ozbreed.co.nz/plant-ranges/encore-azaleas/
5. Autumn Twist™ Rhododendron hybrid.
Enhancing New Zealand Gardens with Hardy Shrubs
Incorporating these hardy shrubs into New Zealand gardens offers a range of aesthetic and practical benefits. Westringia and Callistemon provide options for low-maintenance, drought-tolerant landscapes. Nandina brings dynamic colour changes, while Viburnum offers year-round beauty and ecological benefits. Azaleas, with their spectacular blooms, add dramatic flair to garden designs.
By selecting these hardy plants, New Zealand gardeners and landscape designers can create landscapes that not only withstand the local climate but also require fewer resources, such as water and chemical treatments. This sustainability makes them cost-effective choices that contribute to a healthier environment. Whether used individually or in combination, these hardy shrubs promise to enhance garden beauty while promoting environmental stewardship.