Fast Growing Shrubs for the Shade
- Hibiscus shrubs can grow up to 8 feet tall, although some dwarf varieties only reach 3 feet. Perennial hibiscus plants grow rapidly, and are at their ideal height in no more than three years; they achieve this height each year afterward. The shrub displays larger tropical flowers in late summer, in striking colors like orange and pink. Hibiscus will grow in lightly-shaded areas, but need plenty of water for the flowers to develop well. Soil that is well-drained and contains nutrient-rich organic matter is a must for the hibiscus.
- The Rose of Sharon is in the hibiscus family, and grows up to 12 feet in maturity, with a spread of 6 feet. The lilac blooms with magenta centers bloom June and October; the shrubs need partial shade to thrive, and are attractive to hummingbirds and butterflies. Rose of Sharon shrubs grow quickly and upright, and can be trained to grow single-stemmed to resemble a mini tree. A series of the shrubs will create an attractive hedge; the plants are adaptable to a number of soil conditions, but prefer soil with organic matter that has been properly drained.
- The oakleaf hydrangea grows quickly, and is specific to USDA hardiness zones 5 through 9. It is named for its leaves, which are similar to those on an oak tree. The shrub produces cone-shaped clusters of small white flowers in summer, which change to a soft pink as the summer progresses, and transform to a brown hue in autumn. The foliage on the oakleaf hydrangea is hunter green in spring and summer, and takes on a bronze-like red color in the fall. The plant grows in shade, but can also tolerate sunny conditions, and grows to about 6 feet.
- Downy serviceberry shrubs belong to the rose family, and are fast-growing plants that can grow in partial shade to be up to 40 feet tall, although most shrubs only reach 25 feet. Serviceberry shrubs can grow up to 10 feet in a five- to 10-year period, but some varieties grow even faster. Downy serviceberry plants are one of the first spring flowering shrubs, and have white flowers that contrast the medium-green ovate leaves -- the flowers only last for about a week. The leaves change color in the fall to a russet red or orange, and the shrub produces dark purple berries that are fit for human and animal consumption.