Assorted evergreen and flowering shrubs forming a layered, year-round foundation planting in a Bay Area garden

Shrubs

Structure, color, and low-fuss beauty—year-round shrubs for Bay Area gardens.

Shrubs are the backbone of a great landscape—adding year-round structure, screening, and repeat color without the constant upkeep of seasonal flowers. In the San Francisco Bay Area, the right shrubs can handle everything from summer-dry sun to coastal wind and partial shade, while still looking polished.

Shop this collection for:

  • Evergreen foundation shrubs for clean, “finished” curb appeal

  • Flowering shrubs for seasonal impact (and pollinator value)

  • Low-water & Mediterranean-friendly shrubs for resilient gardens

  • Hedge and privacy shrubs for boundaries, sound buffering, and screening

  • Shade-tolerant shrubs for side yards and under-tree planting

Need help choosing? Use the filters (sun exposure, water needs, mature size) to narrow down fast.
Evergreen shrubs in Bay Area garden border

Evergreen Shrubs

Deciduous Shrubs

Deciduous Shrubs

Flowering shrubs are the backbone

Flowering Shrubs

Flowers come and go—foliage is what you live with every day

Foliage Shrubs

Fragrant Flowering

Fragrant Flowering

Low shrubs are the easiest way

Low Shrubs

Medium shrub hedge line in a Bay Area front yard

Medium Shrubs

Tall shrubs over 5 feet for privacy screening

Tall Shrubs

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Frequently asked questions

Q1: What’s the best shrub for privacy in the Bay Area?
A: For privacy, choose evergreen shrubs with dense branching and a mature height that matches your screening goal. If you want a clean hedge, pick varieties that respond well to pruning; for a softer look, choose naturally dense shrubs and space them for overlap.

Q2: How do I choose shrubs for low-water landscapes?
A: Look for shrubs labeled drought-tolerant once established. In the Bay Area, many Mediterranean-climate shrubs thrive with deep, infrequent watering after the first season—especially in full sun with well-drained soil.

Q3: Do shrubs do well in coastal wind or foggy areas?
A: Many do—especially tougher evergreens. If you’re near the coast, prioritize shrubs known for wind tolerance and salt/fog resilience, and avoid tender, thin-leafed options unless protected.

Q4: What’s the best time to plant shrubs in Northern California?
A: Fall through spring is ideal. Cooler weather helps roots establish before summer heat. If planting in summer, plan on consistent watering during establishment.

Q5: How far apart should I plant shrubs for a hedge?
A: A practical hedge spacing is about 50–70% of the plant’s mature width (closer for faster fill, wider for more airflow). We recommend checking the mature width on each product page.

Q6: Can you help with placement, spacing, or a full planting plan?
A: Yes—if you’re building a hedge, foundation layout, or refreshing beds, we can help you choose the right shrubs and quantities for a clean, professional finish.