Fall is one of the best seasons to plant trees and shrubs—and the perfect time to think beyond summer color. While brilliant foliage and late-season blooms steal the show in autumn, the very best choices also bring beauty in every season. Look for plants with fresh spring growth, long-lasting flowers, or striking winter structure to keep your garden lively all year long.
To help inspire your fall planting, we asked our tree and shrub buyer to share his top favorites. Here are his picks for standout trees and shrubs that shine in fall and beyond.
Remember to take a look at our Fall Favorites: Perennials & Annuals as well.
Hydrangea
Hydrangeas’ massive flowerheads bloom summer into fall and often fade to unique colors, making them attractive well into late fall. They are beautiful as fresh-cut flowers and for use in dried bouquets. Learn more about the different types of Hydrangea, plus care and pruning tips here.
Nandina
Nandina’s colorful, always-changing foliage makes it a star in all four seasons. Hardy and virtually pest and disease-free, it has brightly-colored new spring growth and fiery fall foliage. In the PNW, it is a great foundation plant that won’t outgrow its space.
Japanese Maple
A classic PNW tree for a reason! The delicate leaves, curved branching structure, and amazing fall colors of Japanese Maples are unbeatable. You’ll be amazed at the array of colors and forms available, with varieties that thrive in both sun and shade. We dare you to find a more beautiful tree!
Caryopteris
Filled with blooms that attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, Caryopteris is an outstanding addition to the garden. Some varieties have lovely lavender-blue flowers and silvery-green leaves while others offer gold foliage or soft pink flowers. Caryopteris prefers full sun and well-drained soil, blooming midsummer to frost in the PNW.
Hebe
If you’re looking for a unique evergreen to fill in spaces in the garden, Hebes are a fantastic choice. With many leaf forms and flowers ranging from white to pink and purple, these are great shrubs for hot, sunny spots!
Smoke Tree/Bush
Cotinus coggygria, called Smoke Tree or Smoke Bush for its feathery seed clusters that are reminiscent of puffs of smoke, offers year-round interest in the garden. Many varieties have deep purple foliage that turns scarlet red in autumn, while others offer bright green leaves and soft, dusty pink flowers.
Heath & Heather
Heath (Erica) and Heather (Calluna) and tough, sun-loving, evergreen shrubs. Depending on the cultivar, they bloom from fall through spring. Mix and match varieties for a multi-season display of color in the garden!
Blueberries
Not only are home-grown blueberries exceptionally full of flavor, but did you know that many varieties of blueberry bushes also offer gorgeous fall foliage? Sizes range from more compact bushes to shrubs over 5’ tall. Choose varieties whose berries ripen at different times for a full summer of deliciousness.
Camellia
Different varieties of Camellia brighten the fall, winter, or early spring with their elegant blooms. These evergreen shrubs are attractive throughout the year with glossy, deep green leaves. They pair well with Hydrangeas and Rhododendrons for a full year of color in the garden.