- Important ecological function
- Shrubs for sunny locations
- Partly shaded to shaded areas
- underplanting
Native shrubs are valuable plants that serve as a source of food, refuge and nesting sites. They enrich the garden not only with their flower and fruit decorations, but also with a greater variety of species. There are suitable shrubs for every location.
The privet is a pretty flowering wild shrub
Important ecological function
Native wild shrubs develop numerous branches. They often have thorns, providing a safe haven for small songbirds. During the winter months, wild fruits of elder, rowan berries and pear offer a richly laid table. Birds use wild shrubs as a food source when nothing else can be found. Even ivy is used as an emergency reserve when the woody plant starts to bear fruit. In addition to birds, you can also observe butterflies such as the waxwing on these shrubs, which feast on the nectar of the flowers.
Shrubs for sunny locations
With its yellow flowers that bloom from May to June, the barberry (Berberis vulgaris) is a valuable source of nectar for wild bees, bumblebees and butterflies. The shrub develops thorny branches into which small songbirds retreat. The plant feels comfortable on dry to medium-moist soil. The broom (Sarothamnus scoparius) has similar requirements, and its magnificent yellow flowers also appear between May and June.
More sunbathers:
- Raspberry (Rubus idaeus)
- Buckthorn (Rhamnus catharticus)
- Privet (Ligustrum vulgare)
Partly shaded to shaded areas
Red and black currants (Ribes rubrum and Ribes nigrum) thrive on moderately moist to moist soil under low-light conditions. Its flowers develop between April and May. The fruits are not only interesting for humans. Birds also like the sweet berries and are frequent visitors to the garden. Red honeysuckle (Lonicera xylosteum) develops red fruits that are poisonous to humans. Birds are not bothered by the toxic ingredients.
Shrubs to sunny to semi-shady locations:
- Two-style hawthorn (Crataegus laevigata)
- Wild pear (Pyrus pyraster)
- Bird cherry (Prunus padus)
underplanting
Instead of mulching the soil, you can underplant tall trees with low shrubs or herbs. With a hedge border made of native plants, you create a superficial backdrop that offers a valuable living space. Wood cranesbill, lady's mantle or sticky sage are ideal as undersown. Gaps are closed by soapwort and moon violet.